Green beans are vegetables with a low energy value that can barely provide up to 28 kcal/100g. Like the majority of vegetables, their water content is very important, reaching up to 90% of their weight. They have a considerable carbohydrate content (5%), and their fiber content (2.4%) is particularly noteworthy. They contain a certain amount of protein (2.3%) and almost negligible amounts of fat.
Minerals: it is worth noting the high potassium content, which is the mineral found in the highest proportion in green beans. But we can also mention other minerals that are present in significant amounts, almost as much as potassium: magnesium, iron, iodine, and phosphorus.
Vitamins: in terms of vitamin content, green beans contain significant amounts of vitamin C, folate, and vitamin A. In addition to the above, they also contain vitamins B1, B2, niacin, and B6.
How can they help us?
Green beans have been part of our diet for centuries, more for their nutritional qualities than for their medicinal properties. Nevertheless, we can highlight some beneficial properties for health that are currently attributed to them:
Diuretic: green beans have a marked diuretic and purifying effect. They promote the elimination of excess fluids and waste substances from the body. This is due to their significant potassium and water content, as well as very little sodium.
Pregnancy and childhood: due to their folate content, green beans are essential in the diet of pregnant women and children.
Obesity: green beans are an ideal food to include in weight loss diets, as they contain high amounts of fiber and provide very little energy and fat.
Green beans should not be consumed raw, as they contain a substance that can be somewhat toxic.
