Green beans, also known as snap beans, are a low-calorie vegetable that make for a great addition to any diet. With just 43 calories per cup of boiled green beans, it's easy to enjoy a satisfying serving without overloading on calories.
But green beans offer more than just a low-calorie option. They're also rich in several essential vitamins and minerals, making them a great source of nutrition. For example, one cup of boiled green beans offers approximately 4 grams of fiber, 206% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin K, and 14% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C.
In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of green beans and provide some tips on how to prepare them for optimal nutrition and flavor.
Low Calorie Food
If you're looking for a filling and flavorful vegetable without the added calories, green beans are a great choice. With just 43 calories per cup, they're an excellent option for anyone looking to restrict their calorie intake while still enjoying a satisfying meal. Because of their low calorie count, green beans also make an ideal snack. You can enjoy a cup of boiled green beans as a mid-day snack without worrying about adding extra calories to your diet. So if you're looking for a low-calorie vegetable that offers a variety of essential nutrients, look no further than green beans!
Great Source of Fiber
Green beans are a great source of dietary fiber, which plays an essential role in digestive health. One cup of boiled green beans offers approximately 4 grams of fiber, which is about 14% of your daily recommended intake. Fiber is known to promote satiety and keep you feeling fuller for longer. By including green beans in your diet, you're more likely to avoid overeating and snacking on unhealthy options. To maximize the fiber content of your green beans, be sure to consume them boiled or steamed rather than fried or baked, which can reduce the fiber content and add unwanted calories to your meal.
Vitamin-Rich
Green beans are rich in several essential vitamins and minerals that are critical to overall health. For example, one cup of boiled green beans offers approximately 14% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and wound healing. Green beans are also an excellent source of vitamin K, which is essential for blood coagulation and bone health. With 206% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin K per cup, green beans are one of the best dietary sources of this essential vitamin. So if you're looking for a nutrient-dense vegetable that can support immune function and overall health, green beans are an excellent option.
Low in Fat
Green beans are a low-fat vegetable that can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Because they contain no saturated or trans fats, green beans are an excellent option for anyone looking to reduce their overall fat intake. By incorporating green beans into your diet, you may also benefit from the phytochemicals that they contain. Some studies have suggested that these compounds may help to reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer. So if you're looking for a low-fat option that also packs a nutrient punch, look no further than green beans.
Low in Sodium
Green beans are a low-sodium vegetable that can help you maintain healthy blood pressure levels. With just 6 milligrams of sodium per cup of boiled green beans, they're an excellent option for anyone looking to reduce their sodium intake. In addition to supporting blood pressure management, reducing sodium intake may also benefit heart health. High sodium intake has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. So if you're looking for a heart-healthy vegetable that can help reduce your sodium intake, green beans are an excellent choice.
Aids in Weight Loss
Because green beans are low in calories and high in fiber, they can help support healthy weight management. By including green beans in your diet, you may be able to reduce your overall calorie intake and avoid overeating on other less healthy options. Additionally, green beans have a low glycemic index, which means they won't spike your blood sugar levels like some other foods can. By regulating your blood sugar levels, green beans can help reduce your risk of developing diabetes and other metabolic disorders. So if you're looking for a weight-loss-friendly food that's also nutrient-dense and delicious, be sure to include green beans in your diet.
Boosts Digestion
Green beans are a rich source of dietary fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation. By bulking up your stool and promoting regular bowel movements, green beans can help keep your gut healthy and functioning properly. Green beans are also a prebiotic food, which means they can help support the growth of healthy gut bacteria. By promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria, green beans can help reduce inflammation and improve overall digestive health. So if you're looking for a food that can promote healthy digestion and gut health, be sure to include green beans in your diet.
Green beans are a rich source of several essential vitamins and minerals that are critical to immune function. For example, vitamin C is essential for the production of white blood cells, which help fight off infections and illnesses. Vitamin K, on the other hand, is critical for blood clotting, which can help prevent excessive bleeding in the event of an injury. Additionally, green beans are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. By reducing inflammation, green beans may be able to reduce the risk of chronic diseases and support overall immune function. So if you're looking for a food that can help support immune function and fight off illness, green beans are an excellent option.
Easy to Prepare
One of the best things about green beans is how easy they are to prepare. Simply boil or steam them for a few minutes, and they're ready to eat. You can also roast them in the oven with a little olive oil and seasonings for a delicious and crispy side dish. And because green beans are so versatile, you can enjoy them in a variety of dishes. They make a great addition to salads, stir-fries, and casseroles, and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a healthy snack. So if you're looking for a convenient and tasty vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, green beans are an excellent choice.
Affordable
Green beans are a budget-friendly option that won't break the bank. Whether you buy them fresh, frozen, or canned, green beans are an affordable way to add some nutrition to your diet. And because they're so versatile, you can use green beans in a variety of recipes to stretch your food budget even further. For example, you can add green beans to a stir-fry or casserole to make the dish more filling without adding extra calories. So if you're looking for a nutritious and affordable option, be sure to stock up on green beans on your next trip to the grocery store.
Green beans are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an excellent addition to any diet.
5 FAQs about Boiled Green Beans
How many calories are in one cup of boiled green beans?
One cup of boiled green beans contains 43 calories.
Are boiled green beans healthy?
Yes, boiled green beans are healthy. They are low in calories, high in fiber, and a good source of vitamins and minerals.
How do you boil green beans?
To boil green beans, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 5-8 minutes or until tender.
Can you add salt to boiled green beans?
Yes, you can add salt to boiled green beans. However, it is recommended to add salt after cooking as it can cause the beans to become tough.
What are some ways to serve boiled green beans?
Boiled green beans can be served as a side dish or used in salads, stir-fries, and casseroles. They can also be seasoned with herbs, garlic, lemon, or olive oil for added flavor.