The Pros and Cons of Eating White Beans: Nutritional Benefits and Potential Side Effects

February 9, 2024

Although white beans are a versatile ingredient used in both food and medicine, this bean with various benefits does have some toxic side effects. So what are the disadvantages of eating white beans in the long term? And what are the recommended uses and dosages for white beans?


Nutritional Composition of White Beans:

1. White beans are rich in nutrients, including protein, fat, carbohydrates, calcium, phosphorus, iron, dietary fiber, vitamin A, B vitamins, cyanoglycosides, and tyrosinase. The vitamin B content in the bean coat is particularly abundant.

2. White beans contain components that can inhibit viruses. These active components are found in both the high molecular weight and low molecular weight parts of water-soluble compounds, effectively inhibiting the growth of viruses.

3. The amylase inhibitor in white beans has a blood sugar-lowering effect in the body.

4. White beans contain various trace elements that stimulate bone marrow hematopoietic tissue, reduce the destruction of granulocytes, improve hematopoietic function, and are effective for reducing white blood cell count.

5. The phytohemagglutinin in white beans can cause agglutination of cancer cells, induce structural changes on the surface of tumor cells, exert cytotoxic effects, promote the transformation of lymphocytes, enhance immune capacity against tumors, inhibit tumor growth, and have anti-cancer effects.

Taboos and Side Effects of White Beans:

1. It is well known that undercooked or raw white beans can cause food poisoning, with symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and vomiting occurring within three to four hours after consumption. Therefore, it is important to note that white beans should not be eaten raw or undercooked.

2. Excessive consumption should be avoided. "Bencao Qizheng" recorded that white beans should not be eaten excessively as it can cause stagnation. Most beans have a qi-tonifying characteristic, and excessive consumption can lead to bloating in the abdomen, as mentioned earlier when discussing other types of beans. Therefore, white beans should also not be eaten excessively. It is recommended to eat them regularly, but in moderate amounts.

3. There are also specific groups of people who should avoid eating white beans, such as those with cold or feverish illnesses.

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