Though beans may be known (erroneously) on many a playground as “the magical fruit,” thanks to one of their less savory side effects, this legume is a staple in diets around the world, providing protein and a host of other nutrients in a form that is delicious and wonderfully cost-effective. But, a recent study has shown that there may actually be something almost magical about beans – namely their ability to combat life-threatening conditions.
According to a study published in the latest edition of Archives of Internal Medicine, beans may be able to offset some of serious health complications associated with Type 2 diabetes, such as high blood pressure and heart disease.
A team of Canadian researchers reportedly chose to isolate the health benefits of legumes among diabetics because beans, peas and lentils have a low mark on the glycemic index (GI), meaning they don’t significantly increase blood glucose levels when eaten. The American Diabetes Association states that up to two-thirds of diabetics also suffer from hypertension, so, since low GI foods are known to reduce blood pressure, the scientists chose to observe their effect on people with Type 2 diabetes.
According to a press release, scientists from St. Michael’s Hospital and the University of Toronto found that, of the 121 participants in the study, those who ate a cup of legumes daily over the course of three months saw the most significant decreases in blood pressure levels. That, in turn, led to lower risk of heart disease.
“This is the first study of its kind to specially look at legumes’ effect on cardiovascular risk factors [such as] a blood pressure lowering effect in diabetic patients,” said medical researcher Dr. David Jenkins in an official statement.
In addition, this study further shows the importance of nutrition for the mind and body, as dietary choices can play a role in everything from future brain health to physical mobility.