Go Green! 7 incredible health benefits of green beans

Green beans contain about twice the amount of iron as compared to spinach. Iron is a component of red blood cells which is essential to transport oxygen from the lungs to cells throughout the body. If you are struggling with anemia, dripping energies or low metabolism - then green beans is the magical food you need. 

This nutritional powerhouse can do wonders for your skin, hair, and nails. Green beans are loaded with an easily absorbed type of silicon, which are important for the formation of healthy connective tissues and strengthening nails and boosting skin health. 

According to the book, ‘Healing Foods’ green beans are abundant in Vitamin K, which activates osteocalcin which is the main non-collagen protein found in bones. This compound locks calcium molecules together inside a bone, strengthening them from within. 

Green beans are loaded with antioxidants preventing the free radical damage activity. Free radicals are atoms or groups of atoms with an odd (unpaired) number of electrons and can be formed when oxygen interacts with certain molecules. These molecules can bind together and form chains which can affect important cellular components making them function poorly and causing them to die. In worse cases, it can also trigger heart ailments and cancers. To prevent free radical damage the body has a defense system of antioxidants. Green beans with their high quantum of antioxidants can prevent the activity. The book ‘Healing Food’ notes, “ Levels of antioxidants lutein, beta-carotene, violaxanthin, and neoxanthin are comparable to those  in carotenoid-rich vegetables, such as carrots”

Green beans with its strong diuretic properties can serve as a great detox and help rid your body from unwanted toxins. 

Green beans pack abundant amounts of calcium and heart protective flavonoids. Flavonoids are polyphenolic antioxidants that are commonly found in fruits and vegetables. The high amounts of flavonoids have immense anti-inflammatory properties, which regulate thrombotic activity in the cells and prevent blot clots in the arteries. 

Rich in carotenoids, green beans could play an effective role in preventing macular degeneration (a condition that causes decrease in vision and eye function). They are also rich in lutein and Zeaxanthin which help maintain good eyesight and night vision.

Have them alone or add them to your salads, soups or stews or serve as a side dish. You can also pair them with your meat and poultry. It is better to have them whole and not cut them to preserve their nutritional contents. So what are you waiting for? Load up on these healthy greens already!