As soon as winter begins, markets fill with all kinds of green vegetables. Among them, flat beans, or shim, hold a special place.

Beans are as tasty as they are rich in protein and fibre. Including them in a healthy diet helps keep digestion in order and keeps you feeling full for longer.

Thanks to their fibre, beans encourage the growth of good bacteria in the gut and help reduce constipation. Their protein helps build body cells and muscles, which matters especially for people who eat little meat or follow a vegetarian diet.

Another important point is that beans help control diabetes. Their low glycaemic index makes blood sugar rise slowly, keeping swings in blood sugar in check. Eating beans regularly also helps with weight control.

In terms of nutrition, beans contain vitamins A and C and calcium. Vitamin A is essential for eye health, vitamin C boosts immunity and calcium helps keep bones and teeth healthy. Beans also contain iron, which plays an important role in preventing anaemia.

Beans can be cooked in many ways; steamed, fried or boiled, they keep their nutritional value. Adding them to the daily diet also makes healthy meals tastier.

Source cited by the writer: National Institute of Nutrition, India.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.