Unknown Benefits of Fresh Broad Beans

Fresh fava beans, with their distinctive spring aroma and status as a nutritional powerhouse on seasonal tables, stand out for their support of the immune system—a factor of major importance in protection against Covid-19. Nutrition and Dietetics Specialist Deniz Nadide Can at Acıbadem Altunizade Hospital states: "During this season of transition, it is very important to support the immune system against Covid and other diseases. Fresh fava beans, the star vegetable of spring, have extremely nutritious properties due to their rich content. Cooking them with sesame oil further increases their nutritional value. Per 100 grams of fava beans, there are 8.2 grams of carbohydrates, 4.64 grams of protein, and 1.63 grams of fiber. Furthermore, they are rich in sodium, potassium, folic acid, and vitamin C," says Nutrition and Dietetics Specialist Deniz Nadide Can, who listed five important but little-known benefits of fava beans along with important warnings and recommendations.

Protects the heart

Fava beans, from the legume family, are known as heart-friendly. Due to their high protein and fiber content and lack of cholesterol, they should be consumed as an alternative to red meat by individuals with high cholesterol. Thanks to their fiber content, they have a cholesterol-lowering effect in the body. Additionally, they serve as a quality protein source for vegans and vegetarians.

Reduces colon cancer risk

When consumed regularly, fava beans are a good alternative to constipation due to their soluble fiber content. Individuals who chronically experience constipation have a higher risk of developing colon cancer. We must definitely meet our daily fiber requirements through legumes and vegetables. One average portion of fava beans can cover 36 percent of daily fiber needs. With adequate fiber consumption, it is possible to reduce the risk of colon cancer. Consuming fava beans twice a week in season is beneficial. However, for patients with irritable bowel syndrome, avoidance is recommended as fava beans may cause gas.

Strengthens immunity

Nutrition and Dietetics Specialist Deniz Nadide Can states: "During these months of fighting Covid-19, the linoleic acid it contains disrupts the viral cell membrane structure, thereby contributing to the body's fight against the virus. When you cook fava beans with sesame oil, you further increase their nutritional value.  

Supports weight loss efforts

Fava beans have a high fiber and protein ratio. They are low in calories and at the same time a satiating food. When consumed with a meal, the feeling of fullness will last longer, which can reduce daily calorie intake. Like other legumes, they should definitely be included in weight loss diets when in season.

Slows the progression of Parkinson's disease

Nutrition and Dietetics Specialist Deniz Nadide Can states: "According to scientific research, fava beans are a legume rich in levodopa. Levodopa is converted in the body to a neurotransmitter called dopamine. Dopamine is used in the treatment of Parkinson's patients. According to the literature, when fava beans with rich dopamine content are consumed regularly, it can help slow the progression of the disease. However, individuals receiving drug treatment must consume them under medical supervision."  

Attention! Do not consume fava beans if you have this condition!

Despite the benefits of fava beans, certain individuals should avoid them. Nutrition and Dietetics Specialist Deniz Nadide Can states: "This condition, known as fava bean poisoning among the general public and as favism in medical literature, occurs in individuals with G6PD (glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase) enzyme deficiency, estimated to be present in approximately 20 percent of the population in the Aegean, Mediterranean, and Africa. Since it is a condition seen parallel to thalassemia, it is recommended that these patients not consume fava beans. If this enzyme deficiency is not yet known, particularly in infants, fava bean consumption is not recommended for pregnant women and babies."