White Kidney Beans

Additional Details

White kidney beans, just like other legumes, contain both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber. 1 cup serving of cooked kidney beans satisfies 45 percent of the Recommended Daily Value (DV) of dietary fiber. Once in your digestive system, soluble fiber binds itself with the bile acids and removes it out of your body. This prevents such bile acids from being reabsorbed in your liver and hence inhibits synthesis of harmful cholesterol. Insoluble fiber prevents constipation by increasing the bulk of your stool. (Ref 4) This prevents digestive complications such as irritable bowel syndrome and diverticulosis.

Technical Specifications

White kidney beans and other legumes are rich in antioxidants, which are known to have anticancer properties. When cells in your body metabolize, they produce compounds known as free radicals. Such compounds bind to your cells, causing aging, cancer and chronic diseases. Antioxidants destroy free radicals, countering their harmful effects.

Applications

White kidney beans -- so named due to their convex shape that resembles the kidney -- are among the best foods for helping you lose weight due to their high fiber content, which leaves you feeling full for longer and keeps food cravings at bay. Native to Central and South America, they are well known for their texture and their ability to absorb flavors. Rich in fiber, white kidney beans also contain essential nutrients such as minerals, vitamins and proteins.