Black beans are one of the best and most popular types of beans to use, safe and harmless. Black beans are rich in the antioxidant anthocyanin, a compound that gives the beans their black color. In traditional medicine, regularly consuming black bean water can help cleanse the blood, lower blood pressure, reduce fat and harmful substances in the blood.
The black color from the black bean shells is also beneficial for the kidneys, so many people eat black beans daily instead of rice to treat kidney conditions.
According to modern scientific analysis, 50 grams of black beans provide 150-160 calories, including 12 grams of protein, 1 gram of fat, and 25 grams of carbohydrates. Black beans are rich in essential amino acids for the body, as well as vitamins A, C, E, and various minerals such as zinc, selenium, copper, and magnesium. Therefore, black beans are very good for health.
In addition, black beans provide a significant amount of fiber, which helps you feel full longer, reduces hunger and the absorption of sugar and fat. Therefore, using black beans as part of a weight loss plan is an effective and safe method that is preferred by many Japanese people.
The best time to drink black bean water is 2 hours away from meals. According to Dr. Pham Viet Hoang, a lecturer at the Traditional Medicine Academy of Vietnam, black bean water should be consumed 2 hours after meals, stored in the refrigerator, and used within a day after preparation. Additionally, maintaining a balance between calorie intake and expenditure through physical activity is essential for overweight and obese individuals.
Benefits of black beans
1. Supports healthy bones
Black beans are rich in calcium and phosphorus, two essential minerals for bone structure formation. Iron and zinc in black beans play a role in maintaining bone strength and flexibility.
2. Helps lower blood pressure
Black beans help maintain low sodium levels, which is necessary for maintaining normal blood pressure. Black beans are a low-sodium bean type and contain potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which naturally lower blood pressure.
3. Protects heart health
Black beans have anti-inflammatory properties and contain a complex of B vitamins. They help promote healthy blood vessels, reduce levels of bad cholesterol and triglycerides in the body, and support individuals with heart disease to improve their health.
4. Supports digestion
Black beans are high in fiber, which helps food move more easily through the digestive system, reducing digestive issues such as heartburn and constipation.
5. Supports weight loss
Black beans are rich in fiber and have a lower glycemic index compared to rice and bread, making you feel fuller after a meal and reducing cravings. Black beans help you stay full longer, thereby reducing overall calorie intake. The National Institutes of Health in the United States has reported that increasing vegetable consumption, such as black beans, can reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
6. Promotes skin health
Black beans contain 10 essential amino acids that play a vital role in collagen production. Therefore, drinking black bean water can help you maintain smooth skin and prevent aging.
Notes when cooking black bean water
Before cooking black beans, you should soak them for about 6 hours to allow the beans to decompose any substances that inhibit germination. These substances are not good for health. The soaking process will remove these substances, making the water safer for consumption.
After soaking, drain the black beans and roast them before cooking. The roasting process helps balance the cold nature of black beans, preventing symptoms such as abdominal pain when consuming.
When cooking black bean water, add some slices of fresh ginger. Ginger helps keep the body warm and prevent stomach discomfort when drinking black bean water. Additionally, ginger enhances digestion and helps reduce fat and cholesterol in the body.