One of the best ways to improve your health in the new year is by adding more nutritious foods into your diet. Beans are notable for their health benefits and are delicious, affordable, and accessible, making it easy to incorporate them into any meal. Below are 5 key benefits they offer to help optimize your health.

1. Rich in Nutrients

Beans are high in essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium. This combination of nutrients helps protect DNA, slows down the growth of cancer cells, helps regulate hormones, and aids in the immune system.

2. Improved Skin and Hair

Beans are sometimes referred to as “superfoods” or beauty beans in some Asian countries as they offer benefits for skin and hair. They contain anthocyanin which provides the anti-aging properties for your skin but they also help promote cancer prevention and lipid metabolism. They are also packed with vital hair nutrients including protein, folic acid, zinc, vitamin B, iron, and potassium.

3. Supports Your Heart

Studies have shown that a diet containing plant-based protein sources that are high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants such as beans is linked with reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. The fiber helps with controlling cholesterol levels and antioxidants help lower blood pressure.

4. Bone Protection

Beans are great for those who are looking to protect themselves from osteoporosis due to the soy isoflavones that help increase bone density. They are also rich in magnesium, fiber, and calcium, which are all important for bone structure. Iron and zinc found in beans play an important role in bone strength and elasticity

5. A Healthy Gut

One of the more neglected areas within health may be making sure to take care of your gut. Beans have a high fiber content, which means that it can help prevent constipation and promote regularity to maintain a healthy digestive tract. It also helps add in the good bacteria our body needs to aid in the health of our organs such as the colon.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Information provided is not meant to substitute for medical advice from your physician or other medical professional.