녹두죽 / Green Bean Soup (Without Coconut Milk)

Green beans are a good source of fiber and protein and also contain vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, C,E, K) and minerals like iron, magnesium and potassium. It is also a traditional home remedy to clear toxins, reduce body heat and promote healthier skin.

A cup serving of green bean soup may contain up to 42 percent of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C based on a 2,000-calorie diet. The vitamin C available in this soup may impart benefits to your eyes thanks to its antioxidant effects. Vitamin C boosts collagen output, and collagen makes up part of your cornea. Vitamin C also makes for healthy blood vessels, and your eyes contain many tiny capillaries. Note that if you are pregnant or a smoker, you need more vitamin C in your diet, so including green bean soup in your meal plan is a good option for boosting your intake.

The various health benefits of green beans can be attributed to their rich store of nutrients. Some of the important nutrients found in green beans and their beneficial uses are as follows:

• Vitamin K – This vitamin enables the body to heal faster. Vitamin K stimulates the process of blood coagulation whenever there is a wound or injury and prevents excess loss of blood. For this reason individuals who need to undergo surgery are given vitamin K supplements before the procedure. The vitamin also enhances the absorption of calcium in the body and this helps to boost bone strength and density. Those at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis should consume adequate amounts of green beans so that they can get a healthy supply of vitamin K.

• Vitamin C – This is another important vitamin found in green beans. It assists in the healing of wounds and may also play a role in cancer prevention. Due to its antioxidant properties, vitamin C helps to protect the DNA from damage and abnormalities. It is a good idea to include green beans in the diet in order to reduce the risk of various diseases.

• Vitamin A – Green beans are loaded with vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant which helps to protect against high cholesterol, heart disease and cancer. Vitamin A also delays the signs of premature ageing such as wrinkles, dull skin, fine lines, dark spots and dry skin.

• Manganese – There are also substantial amounts of manganese found in green beans. Manganese helps to alleviate the symptoms of osteoporosis and also assists in the absorption of other nutrients in the body.

• Fiber – Green beans are packed with dietary fiber which is beneficial for those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. Fiber adds bulk to the stools and enables easy passage during bowel movements. Green beans are good for those with high cholesterol since fiber helps to lower the levels of bad cholesterol in the body. People with diabetes may also include green beans in their diet since it helps to regulate blood sugar levels.

• Silicon – Green beans are also known to have healthy amounts of silicon, a mineral which supports health of the connective tissues and bones.