Beans: A Heart-Healthy Holiday Treat?
This Christmas, consider adding a side of heart-healthy goodness to your holiday feast. A leading cardiologist, Dr. Jamal Shaaban, a former dean of the Heart Institute, recently highlighted the surprising health benefits of beans, emphasizing their role in cardiovascular well-being.
In a recent Facebook post, Dr. Shaaban stated, “Beans are considered a heart-amiable food thanks to their many health benefits, as they contain iron, which helps prevent anemia.”
Beyond iron, Dr. Shaaban detailed a wealth of nutritional advantages. He explained that beans are packed with:
- Plant-based protein: Essential for building and repairing tissues.
- Fiber: Crucial for lowering cholesterol levels.
The benefits extend beyond cholesterol management. Dr. Shaaban noted that beans are a powerful tool in diabetes prevention, stating that their ”high percentage of plant protein and fiber…activate the hormones of the digestive system and help regulate the level of insulin in the blood.”
Moreover, beans contribute to appetite control by boosting the production of three key hormones:
- GLP-1, currently used in diabetes treatment.
- PYY,which suppresses appetite.
- Amylin, which increases feelings of fullness.
The advantages don’t stop there. According to Dr. Shaaban,”beans also contribute to the prevention of heart attacks and atherosclerosis,and also help in lowering cholesterol thanks to the fiber and antioxidants found in them.” He even added that beans offer potential benefits in cancer prevention and nerve infection treatment.
This holiday season, as Americans gather around tables laden with festive foods, incorporating beans into your meals offers a appetizing and nutritious way to support heart health and overall well-being.From simple side dishes to hearty stews, the versatility of beans makes them a welcome addition to any holiday spread.
Note: this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. consult with a healthcare
The article emphasizes the numerous health benefits of incorporating beans into your diet, particularly focusing on their positive impact on heart health.
Hear’s a breakdown of the key takeaways:
Cardiovascular Benefits:
Cholesterol Management: Beans are rich in fiber, which helps lower cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Their high protein and fiber content helps regulate insulin levels in the blood, aiding in diabetes prevention.
Heart Attack & Atherosclerosis Prevention: Beans contribute too preventing heart attacks and atherosclerosis due to their fiber and antioxidant content.
Other Health Benefits:
Iron Rich: Beans are a good source of iron,which helps prevent anemia.
Plant-Based Protein: They provide essential protein for tissue building and repair.
Appetite Control: Beans boost the production of hormones like GLP-1,PYY,and Amylin,which suppress appetite and increase feelings of fullness.
* potential Benefits for Cancer Prevention & Nerve Infection Treatment: The article mentions these potential benefits, but doesn’t elaborate further.
Conclusion:
The article suggests including beans in your holiday meals as a tasty and nutritious way to support heart health and overall well-being. It highlights their versatility, making them suitable for various dishes.
Critically important Note:
the article explicitly states that it is indeed for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant dietary changes.