National Bean Day by Colleen Walsh Fong
Have you ever heard of Gregor Mendel? He died on January 6, 1884. What has that got to do with today being National Bean Day? He was a geneticist whose theories are the cornerstone of modern genetics. Mendel used beans to test his inheritance theories. Many people believe that is the reason today was selected for National Bean Day
In addition to contributing to the advancement of genetic knowledge, beans offer human beings other benefits. Whether eaten cooked or raw, all beans have positive nutritional value, being rich in protein, vitamins, and fiber. They are high in antioxidants which contain cancer preventative properties and low on the glycemic index rate, which helps keep the body’s glucose levels stable, helping us to avoid that shaky feeling. This can reduce your risk of getting diabetes and heart disease, as well as help keep your weight down and your physical stamina up. Additionally they aid in the digestion process because of their high fiber content.
But what about coffee beans? The caffeine contained in coffee is problematic for some people and its consumption by them should therefore be avoided. But for those of us who are not harmed by a moderate (1-2 Cups) intake of black coffee, its calcium, magnesium, potassium, B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids content can be beneficial.
So National Bean Day is a healthy holiday! Celebrate it by enjoying beans and improve your health.
I’m having beans for all three meals. A robust cup of espresso for breakfast jumpstarts my brain and adds to the antioxidants included in the blueberries I eat with my oatmeal.
For lunch today I’m having some leftover Tri-Beans, from Easy Weekly Meals for Moms on the Go, as a salad. I love this dish because the delicate taste of just crispy haricot verts blends so beautifully with the yellow beans and red kidney beans. The hint of lemon brightens my taste buds.
Sweet ’N Spicy Chili from Easy Weekly Meals for College Students and Easy Weekly Meals for Moms on the Go will cap off my holiday. The exotic blend of spices bring a depth of flavor that belies its low-calorie count. It leaves me completely satisfied and it can do the same for you to make this a happy National Bean Day.
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Espresso Photo courtesy of Suat Eman FreeDigitalPhotos.net
