Black beans, also called black turtle beans, are legumes, which are very popular in Latin American cuisine.
They are versatile, cholesterol free, high in fiber , rich in protein and low in fat
. Black beans are rich in a certain mineral you may not be familiar with, Molybdenum.
Legumes are reportedly the food group that has the highest amount of molybdenum. This minerals actions are mainly in the production of enzymes, proteins that trigger chemical reactions in the body. These enzymes are involved in uric acid formation, transportation of iron, carbohydrate metabolism and sulfite detoxification. This essential mineral is a trace element mainly found in the liver, kidneys, adrenal glands, bones and skin, but it exists in all body tissues. T
Black beans are a good source of prebiotics. You have likely heard of probiotics and how important they are for gut health. Prebiotics are the food source for probiotics, so without them we would have a hard time maintaining a healthy, balanced gut.
Black beans are heart friendly and anticancer. Black beans contain plant compounds called flavonoids, which have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Reducing inflammation is key in protecting yourself from heart disease and every type of cancer.
Black beans are also rich in soluble fiber. Soluble fiber absorbs water, turns to a gel-like material and passes more easily through the digestive tract than insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber may help prevent heart disease by balancing unhealthy cholesterol levels. An added benefit of soluble fiber is it may help reduce belly (visceral) fat, one of the most dangerous types of fat.
