Amazing 7 Health Benefits of Navy Beans

Amazing 7 Health Benefits of Navy Beans

1.Memory and Cognition

Folate is a key nutrient for many different reasons within the body, including the prevention of neural tube defects and anemia, but it also affects the nervous system in a meaningful way. A deficiency of folate has been directly linked to an increase in homocysteine levels, which can often lead to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Furthermore, one of the B vitamins found in navy beans, thiamin, can help to increase certain neurotransmitters we need for memory and cognition, so these little legumes can also keep our memory sharp as we age.

2.Heart Health

Magnesium and folate team up in navy beans to keep the heart strong and protected. Folate decreases levels of homocysteine, which is a dangerous precursor to heart disease, while magnesium functions in a similar way as potassium, reducing tension and stress in the blood vessels to lessen exertion and lower blood pressure, thus preventing heart attacks and strokes.

3.Diabetes Prevention

High-fiber foods have long been praised for its impact on diabetes, due to its ability to stabilize blood sugar levels, and improve the absorption of nutrients from the gut. With glucose and insulin levels maintained at healthy levels, you are far less likely to develop diabetes, and if you are already suffering from this condition, the high fiber in navy beans can help you manage your symptoms.

4.Digestive Issues

As mentioned, navy beans are extremely high in fiber, which is a key component to good gastrointestinal health. Fiber is able to bulk up the stool and prevent symptoms of constipation and diarrhea. Furthermore, fiber makes bowel movements more normalized by stimulating peristaltic motion. A good fiber diet cleans the intestines and prevents more serious gastrointestinal issues, like colon cancer or gastric ulcers.

5.Antioxidant Activity

Manganese isn’t a mineral you often hear about, but it is a key cofactor in many antioxidant enzymes that can prevent the spread and impact of free radicals. This can help to lower your risk of cancer and chronic illness. Secondly, copper plays an important role as an enzyme cofactor as well, and can help to stimulate blood flow, joint mobility and overall flexibility by cutting back on oxidative stress in those areas.

6.Growth and Repair

One of the most notable and important aspects of navy beans are their high content of protein. Proteins are the building blocks of all life, and we need a steady stream for the growth of new cells, tissues, muscles, bones, blood vessels and every other part of our body. Protein is essential for normal development, but also in the function of repairing damaged areas of the body and speeding the healing process. For vegetarians, navy beans are an excellent alternative source of protein, with more than 15 grams of protein in a single cup!

7.Circulatory System

Keeping the blood flowing normally in our body is obviously important for the oxygenation of our organ systems and normal overall function. Iron is a key component of red blood cells, and without proper iron intake, your circulation suffers, making you susceptible to anemia, weakness, bone mineral loss, fatigue and poor circulation. Copper is also very important in this regard, as it is necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin. In other words, without copper, iron is practically useless in the body. Navy beans, fortunately, contain high levels of both.