Pinto Beans and Their Various Health Benefits
The pinto bean is a variety of the common bean (lat. Phaseolus vulgaris). It is the most common bean in the United States and Northwestern Mexico. Like other types of beans, they are considered to be excellent sources of protein, especially for vegetarians. Their mild, nutty flavor is loved by many people. Pinto beans are harvested while in an immature growth state and sold in stores fresh, canned or frozen. As for the names, pinto beans are called that way due to their mottled appearance, which is similar to that of a pinto horse.
Pinto beans possess a lot of health benefits for people of all ages. Here are a few reasons why you should consider including pinto beans in your daily diet.
- Pinto Beans Decrease Osteoporosis Risk
Pinto beans are a good source of calcium. Usually, calcium is the element that keeps the bones strong, healthy and functional. This is why consuming pinto beans can lower the risk of osteoporosis, a disease which softens and weakens your bone structure.
- They’re good for the brain
Another substance that pinto beans contain is choline, which plays a vital role in the production of acetycholine. To keep things short, achetycholine is a neurotransmitter that keeps your short and long term memory in a good state. By extension, since it’s good for the memory, it also prevents Alzheimer’s disease.
- Pregnant women benefit from the consumption of pinto beans
Pregnant women should most certainly include pinto beans in their daily diets. One of the reasons for including them is that they prevent constipation, a very widespread problem among pregnant woman. Moreover, they are guaranteed sources of folic acid – a beneficial nutrient that plays a crucial role in the prevention of neural tube defects in developing babies.
- They prevent anemia
Iron is one the many minerals found in pinto beans. According to experts, iron contributes heavily to the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen. This is the reason why pinto beans can prevent anemia, especially the type caused by an iron deficiency. Moreover, pinto beans also contain copper, which produces new red blood cells.
- Pinto beans eliminate constipation
Because they contain high amounts of fiber, pinto beans can help eliminate constipation and other related symptoms. Not only that but by keeping your bowel movement regular and stable, it lowers the risk of colon cancer.
- Can contribute to weight loss
As stated above, pinto beans are rich sources of fiber. Thanks to this ingredient, eating them satiates your hunger for several hours, which keeps you from overeating. Obviously, this will keep your weight in check.
- Regulates blood pressure
Pinto Beans are very low on sodium, a substance which is linked to high blood pressure when consumed for prolonged periods of time. The potassium present in pinto beans keeps your blood pressure at a stable, normal level. Folate which, surprise surprise, is also in pinto beans, relaxes the walls of the blood vessels.
These were the seven reasons why pinto beans should be included in your diet. Make sure to mix them with other healthy products, such as salad, and you’ll feel healthier than ever.
