10 Health Benefits of Kidney Beans, Description, and Side Effects

July 3, 2024 by Lauro Braganza

Are you looking to add a nutritional powerhouse to your diet? Look no further than kidney beans! These versatile legumes not only pack a punch in terms of flavor but also offer an impressive array of health benefits. From boosting heart health to aiding in weight management, kidney beans are indeed a superfood worth exploring. In this blog post, we will delve into the health benefits of kidney beans – their description, nutritional value, medicinal properties, and even some delicious recipes that will have you incorporating these little wonders into your meals in no time.

What is Kidney Beans

Kidney beans are a type of legume, also known as the common bean, Phaseolus vulgaris. They are named for their kidney-like shape and come in various colors, including red, white, black, and pinto. Kidney beans are a good source of protein, fiber, and other nutrients and are a popular ingredient in many dishes worldwide.

Here are some more details about kidney beans:

Scientific name: Phaseolus vulgaris
Other names: common bean, haricot bean, French bean
Description: Haricot beans are a legume with a kidney-shaped pod. The beans themselves are typically about 1 inch long and 0.5 inches wide. They can be red, white, black, or pinto.
Appearance: Kidney beans are a good source of protein and fiber. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and phosphorus.
Habitat: Haricot beans are native to Central America and Mexico. They are now grown all over the world.
Taste: Kidney beans have a mild, earthy flavor. They can be eaten cooked or raw.
Size: Haricot beans are typically about 1 inch long and 0.5 inches wide.
Color: Kidney beans can be red, white, black, or pinto.
Seeds: Haricot beans have a single seed in each pod.
Pods: Kidney beans grow in pods that are about 2 inches long.
Physical characteristics: Kidney beans are legumes with kidney-shaped pods. The beans themselves are typically about 1 inch long and 0.5 inches wide. They can be red, white, black, or pinto.

Haricot beans are a versatile ingredient used in various dishes, such as soups, stews, salads, and chili. They are also a good source of protein and fiber, making them a healthy choice for a meal.

Kidney beans are a healthy and versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in various dishes. By following these tips, you can cook kidney beans safely and enjoy their many benefits.

Kidney Beans Nutrition Per 100g

Haricot beans, or red beans, are a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and various nutrients. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown of cooked kidney beans per 100 grams:

Calories: 127 kcal
Protein: 8.7 g
Carbohydrates: 22.8 g
- Dietary Fiber: 6.4 g
- Sugars: 0.3 g
Fat: 0.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1 g
Minerals:
- Calcium: 35 mg
- Iron: 2.8 mg
- Magnesium: 35 mg
- Phosphorus: 80 mg
- Potassium: 358 mg
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Zinc: 0.8 mg
Vitamins:
- Vitamin C: 1.6 mg
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): 0.2 mg
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): 0.1 mg
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin): 0.5 mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.2 mg
- Folate (Vitamin B9): 143 mcg

Please note that these values can vary based on factors such as cooking methods and specific varieties of kidney beans. Also, remember that these values are approximate and can slightly differ based on the source you’re referencing.

Medicinal and Health Benefits of Kidney Beans

Kidney beans offer several potential medicinal and health benefits due to their nutrient content and bioactive compounds. Here are some of the key benefits:

Rich in Protein and Fiber: Kidney beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a valuable option for vegetarians and vegans. They also contain a good amount of dietary fiber, which can aid digestion, promote satiety, and support healthy bowel movements.
Blood Sugar Regulation: The fiber content in kidney beans can help stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of sugars. This can be beneficial for managing diabetes and preventing rapid spikes in blood glucose.
Heart Health: Kidney beans are low in saturated fat and cholesterol and high in soluble fiber and potassium. This combination can help lower LDL cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of heart disease, and regulate blood pressure.
Weight Management: Kidney beans’ protein and fiber can help control hunger and reduce overeating, making them a valuable addition to weight management diets.
Antioxidant Properties: Kidney beans contain various antioxidants, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. These antioxidants can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and support overall health.
Digestive Health: The soluble and insoluble fiber in kidney beans can promote a healthy gut by supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. This can improve digestive health and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal issues.
Bone Health: Kidney beans contain minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis.
Iron Source: Kidney beans are an excellent plant-based source of iron. Although the iron in plant foods is not as easily absorbed as from animal sources, consuming kidney beans and vitamin C-rich foods can enhance iron absorption.
Cancer Prevention: The antioxidants and dietary fiber in kidney beans have been associated with a reduced risk of certain types of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer.
Energy Production: Kidney beans contain B vitamins like thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin, which are crucial in converting food into energy and supporting overall metabolic processes.

It’s important to note that while kidney beans offer these potential benefits, they should be properly cooked before consumption. Raw or undercooked kidney beans contain lectins and phytohemagglutinin, which can be toxic if consumed in large amounts. Cooking kidney beans thoroughly neutralizes these compounds.

As with any dietary changes or additions, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have existing health conditions or are on medications.

Side Effects and Disadvantages of Kidney Beans

While kidney beans offer numerous health benefits, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects and disadvantages. Here are five things to keep in mind:

1. Digestive Issues: Kidney beans contain a complex sugar called raffinose, which can be difficult for some people to digest. This can lead to bloating, gas, and even diarrhea in sensitive individuals.

2. Lectins: Like many other legumes, kidney beans contain natural proteins that can cause digestive discomfort when consumed in large amounts or undercooked. Soaking and cooking kidney beans thoroughly helps reduce their lectin content.

3. Antinutrients: Kidney beans also contain antinutrients like phytic acid and tannins, which can inhibit the absorption of certain minerals like iron and calcium. Soaking or sprouting the beans before cooking may help mitigate this effect.

4. Allergies: Although rare, some individuals may have an allergic reaction to kidney beans or other legumes due to specific proteins present in them. If you experience symptoms such as hives or swelling after consuming kidney beans, seek medical attention immediately.

5. Interference with Medications: People taking certain medications should exercise caution when consuming kidney beans as they may interact poorly with drugs like MAO inhibitors used for depression treatment.

Remember that these side effects are not common, but being aware of them will help you make informed choices about incorporating kidney beans into your diet.

Recipes: How to Cook Kidney Beans

Certainly! Here are instructions on how to cook kidney beans using various methods, including canned, fresh, and dried beans:

1. Canned Kidney Beans: Canned kidney beans are pre-cooked and ready to eat, requiring minimal preparation.

Open the can and drain the liquid from the beans.
Rinse the beans in cold water to remove excess sodium and starchy residue.
Canned kidney beans can be added directly to salads, soups, stews, or other dishes that require beans.

2. Fresh Kidney Beans: Fresh kidney beans are less common than dried or canned ones but can be prepared similarly to other fresh beans.

Shell the beans from their pods.
Rinse the beans thoroughly under cold water.
Place the beans in a pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let them simmer until tender (usually around 20-30 minutes, but it may vary). Test for doneness by tasting a bean for tenderness.

3. Dried Kidney Beans (Soaking Method): Dried kidney beans require soaking before cooking to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.

Sort through the beans to remove any debris or damaged beans.
Rinse the beans under cold water.
To quick soak: Place the beans in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Boil for 2 minutes, remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 1 hour. Drain and rinse.
To overnight soak: Place the beans in a bowl, cover with water, and let them soak for 8-12 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse.

4. Dried Kidney Beans (No Soaking Method): You can also cook kidney beans without soaking, which will require a longer cooking time.

Sort and rinse the beans.
Place the beans in a pot, cover with water (about 3-4 times the volume of beans), and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for about 1.5 to 2.5 hours or until the beans are tender. Taste a bean to check for doneness.

Important Tips:

Regardless of the method, add salt towards the end of cooking to prevent the beans from becoming tough.
Always make sure the beans are fully cooked; undercooked beans can be tricky and may cause digestive discomfort.
Cooking times can vary depending on the age, type of beans, and method used.

Once your kidney beans are cooked, you can use them in various dishes such as chili, soups, salads, and bean-based curries. Remember that if you’re using dried kidney beans, you must ensure they are fully cooked to neutralize any potentially harmful compounds.

The Bottom Line

Incorporating kidney beans into your diet can provide numerous health benefits. These versatile legumes are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. From promoting heart health to aiding in weight management, kidney beans offer many advantages.

Their high fiber content helps regulate digestion and maintain bowel regularity. They also contain antioxidants that help protect against chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Additionally, kidney beans’ iron, magnesium, and folate contribute to overall energy production and support healthy cell function.

However, while kidney beans are generally safe for consumption, they must be adequately cooked to eliminate toxic substances called lectins. If not prepared correctly or consumed excessively, kidney beans can lead to digestive issues like gas and bloating.