- The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is grown in semitropical areas of the world. Beans vary in color and shape and are a cheap and nutritious food. They are typically high in protein, fiber, and nutrients, and are usually low in fat.
- Early research suggests that beans may reduce cholesterol levels and body weight. They may also benefit people with diabetes. Canned refried black beans may be a good source of iron for those with iron deficiency.
- Some studies report that beans act as "carb blockers" by helping to block the process of carbohydrate digestion. A product called Phase 2® Carb Controller (Pharmachem Laboratories, Kearny, NJ) has been found to promote weight loss and reduce blood glucose after meals.
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Beans
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- Azinge NO. Use of beans diet for control of diabetes. Trop.Doct. 1985;15(3):139. View Abstract
- Barrett ML. and Udani JK. A proprietary alpha-amylase inhibitor from white bean (Phaseolus vulgaris): a review of clinical studies on weight loss and glycemic control. Nutr J 2011;10:24. View Abstract
- Beans for body building. Philippines, Food and Nutrition Research Institute. FNRI Publication. 1977;27
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- Mkanda AV, Minnaar A, and Kock HL de. Relating consumer preferences to sensory and physicochemical properties of dry beans (Phaseolus vulgaris). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture 2007;87(15):2868-2879.
- Obiro WC, Zhang T, and Jiang B. The nutraceutical role of the Phaseolus vulgaris alpha-amylase inhibitor. Br J Nutr 2008;100(1):1-12. View Abstract
- Okada Y and Okada M. Effects of radical scavenger protein from broad beans on glutathione status in human lung fibroblasts. Environ Health Prev Med 2007;12(6):272-277. View Abstract
- Preuss HG. Bean amylase inhibitor and other carbohydrate absorption blockers: effects on diabesity and general health. J Am Coll Nutr 2009;28(3):266-276. View Abstract
- Rodriguez-Burger AP, Mason A, and Nielsen SS. Use of fermented black beans combined with rice to develop a nutritious weaning food. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry
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- Schumann K, Romero-Abal ME, Maurer A, et al. Haematological response to haem iron or ferrous sulphate mixed with refried black beans in moderately anaemic Guatemalan pre-school children. Public Health Nutr 2005;8(6):572-581. View Abstract
- Wolever TM, Jenkins DJ, Thompson LU, et al. Effect of canning on the blood glucose response to beans in patients with type 2 diabetes. Hum Nutr Clin Nutr 1987;41(2):135-140. View Abstract
Disclaimer: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.
