Overlooked Nutritional Powerhouse
If you’re like most people in the new year, you’re thinking about ways you might improve your health by shifting what you’re eating. We know the biggest impact we can have on our health is thru our forks aka our daily food choices, so it’s wise to consider your daily choices.
It's rare for me to blog about a single food category, but this one is so underappreciated, it's worthy. One consistent dietary shift can make a big difference!
Top 6 reasons to make BEANS a regular part of your diet
1. They are one of the most nutritionally complete foods available.
2. They are an excellent protein source (with no negative animal protein consumption consequences.)
3. They can dramatically reduce your risk of being amongst the 97% of Americans who don't get enough daily fiber. Their high-quality soluble fiber helps regulate blood sugar and lower cholesterol. Their insoluble fiber helps prevent intestinal disorders, reduce hunger and keeps you feeling full.
4. They are an environmentally friendly food source (especially compared to animal protein sources).
5. They are known cancer fighters. In fact, the most comprehensive analysis of diet and cancer ever performed that was published by the American Institute for Cancer Research reinforces this. Sifting through some half a million studies, nine independent research teams from around the globe created a landmark scientific consensus report reviewed by 21 of the top cancer researchers in the world. One of their summary cancer-prevention recommendations is to eat whole grains and/or legumes (beans, split peas, chickpeas, or lentils) with every meal. Not every week or every day. Every meal.
6. They are versatile i.e. they come in many varieties and there are so many ways to enjoy them
A common question I get as a certified health coach is " how can I easily incorporate beans into my diet?"
Top 5 ways to eat more beans
In hummus
In burritos and wraps
Tossed atop salads
In veggie-centric side dishes
In soups, chilli and stews *
*Click here to get my recipe for Tuscan Farro Soup. A fav hearty soup with beans and ancient grains that I came to adore when traveling and living in Italy.
My invitation to you
Cook or prep something this week that includes a favorite bean variety. Repeat next week. Double down the following week.
Small and consistent steps add up to big change over time.
Looking for support in making health and habit changes? Book a no-obligation. judgement-free chat with me today.
To your good health,
Coach Gayle Rose
Certified Whole Health Coach
Certified Behavior Change Specialist
Certified Personal Fitness Trainer
P.S. The Get (and Stay) started program is an easy and low-cost way to experience the power of partnering with me. More info here.
