A serving of 4.5 oz of green beans contains approximately 136 calories. Green beans are a popular vegetable and known for their various health benefits. In this article, we will explore the calories, nutritional value, ways to cook, benefits, and potential side effects of green beans.
Green beans are low in fat and cholesterol but high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin A. Additionally, they contain various minerals like calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium.
If you're looking to add a healthy and nutritious vegetable to your diet, green beans are an excellent choice. They are easy to cook, versatile, and a great source of essential nutrients.
Calories in Green Beans
One serving of green beans, which is roughly 4.5 oz, contains around 136 calories. The calorie count of green beans is relatively low compared to other vegetables, making it a healthy addition to your diet.
Fat and Cholesterol in Green Beans
Green beans are naturally low in fat and cholesterol. A serving of 4.5 oz of green beans contains less than 1 gram of fat and no cholesterol.
Carbohydrates and Fiber in Green Beans
Green beans are high in fiber and low in carbohydrates. One serving of green beans contains approximately 9 grams of carbohydrates and 4 grams of fiber. The fiber in green beans helps promote digestive health, regulate blood sugar levels, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Protein and Vitamins in Green Beans
Green beans are a good source of protein and various vitamins. One serving of green beans contains approximately 2 grams of protein, 20% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C, and 10% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin A.
Minerals in Green Beans
Green beans are a good source of various minerals. One serving of green beans contains approximately 5% of the daily recommended intake of calcium, 8% of the daily recommended intake of iron, 8% of the daily recommended intake of potassium, and 4% of the daily recommended intake of magnesium.
Benefits of Green Beans
Adding green beans to your diet can provide various health benefits. The fiber in green beans promotes digestive health and can help reduce the risk of heart disease. The vitamins and minerals in green beans support overall health and may help boost the immune system.
Ways to Cook Green Beans
Green beans are a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in various ways. They can be steamed, boiled, roasted, or stir-fried. Additionally, green beans can be added to soups, stews, salads, and casseroles. To get the most health benefits from green beans, it is best to cook them lightly to preserve their nutrients.
Green Beans for Weight Loss
Green beans are low in calories, making them an excellent addition to a weight-loss diet. Additionally, the fiber in green beans can help you feel full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
Side Effects of Green Beans
While green beans are generally considered safe to eat, there are some potential side effects. Some people may experience digestive issues like gas, bloating, and diarrhea after consuming green beans. Additionally, green beans contain oxalates, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones in sensitive individuals. If you experience any adverse reactions after eating green beans, it is best to speak with your healthcare provider.
FAQ About Green Beans
Here are some frequently asked questions about green beans.
Green beans are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals and are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin A.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Green Beans
1. What are the Nutritional Benefits of Green Beans?
Green beans are a great source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and folate. They also contain antioxidants that protect the body's cells from damage. Eating green beans regularly can help boost immunity and maintain healthy bones.
2. How do I Select and Store Green Beans?
Choose green beans that are crisp, bright green in color with no visible blemishes. Avoid beans that are limp, discolored, or have wrinkled skin. Store green beans in the refrigerator in a plastic bag and use within a few days for best quality.
3. What are the Different Ways to Cook Green Beans?
Green beans can be cooked by boiling, steaming, stir-frying, or roasting. They can be seasoned with herbs, butter, cheese, or lemon juice. Green beans are also a great addition to salads, soups, and stews.
4. Can Eating Green Beans Cause Gas?
Green beans contain natural sugars that may cause gas in some people. To reduce gas-producing effects, boil green beans for a few minutes before cooking them with other foods.
5. Are Green Beans Safe for Everyone to Eat?
Green beans are generally considered safe for most people to eat. However, if you have a known allergy to legumes, you may want to avoid green beans as they are part of the legume family. Additionally, if you plan to feed green beans to infants, make sure to cook them well and remove any strings and seeds before serving.