Unexpected effects of green beans on blood sugar

Green beans are a nutritious plant with many scientifically proven health benefits. They are not only a source of quality plant protein but also rich in bioactive compounds that help control blood sugar and blood pressure.

Green beans help control blood sugar through the following mechanisms:

Green beans have a low glycemic index.

One of the basic reasons why green beans are considered a good food for people who need to control blood sugar is the low glycemic index. The glycemic index of green beans is around 25-28. This is considered a very low level. This helps people who eat green beans not have a sudden increase in blood sugar after meals, according to the health website Healthline (USA).

Green beans help people avoid sudden increases in blood sugar after meals.

PHOTO: AI

Inhibits carbohydrate-digesting enzymes

An interesting biological mechanism is that mung beans may contain compounds that inhibit carbohydrate-digesting enzymes, especially α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes. These enzymes play a role in breaking down starch and oligosaccharides into glucose for absorption into the blood.

When the activity of these enzymes is inhibited, the rate of glucose production from starch is reduced, reducing the postprandial hyperglycemic response.

Improve insulin sensitivity

Green beans not only contain starch and fiber but also contain biopeptides and isolated proteins. These components have biological activities that affect glucose and insulin metabolism. Some research evidence shows that biopeptides in green beans have the ability to restore glucose tolerance and reduce insulin resistance in laboratory mice.

Regulation of lipid metabolism

The relationship between sugar metabolism and lipid metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress is very close. When the body has a lot of fat, especially visceral fat, and increased inflammation, insulin resistance is more likely to appear, making blood sugar difficult to control.

Another important point is that green beans help improve liver function, reduce liver damage caused by fatty liver. This effect indirectly helps control blood sugar. The reason is because the liver plays an important role in glucose metabolism.

Effects on intestinal microflora

Green beans, and especially green bean peptides, can modulate the composition of gut microbiota in a beneficial way. Improving the balance of microbiota reduces intestinal permeability, reduces systemic inflammation, thereby reducing insulin resistance and contributing to maintaining stable blood sugar levels, according to Healthline .

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/tac-dung-bat-ngo-cua-dau-xanh-voi-duong-huet-185251004125845822.htm