Spilling The Beans on the Magical Fruit
I’ve recently been consuming an above-average amount of beans. My friends continuously ridicule me for it and have even crowned me “The Bean Queen.” I literally got a bowl of black beans as a birthday present — and then I ate them for dinner before I went out. I honestly don’t blame them for poking fun, it’s such a random food to fixate on, and my bean intake is pretty laughable.
I don’t really know how my bean addiction started or how it escalated to this level — but I will say I’ve come to realize that having a bean habit is not too shabby. Over the last three to four months since this peculiar craving started, I’ve actually been relishing in the many benefits of my diet. So, instead of gatekeeping, I am here to share why my cabinet will continue to be densely stocked with beans — and why yours should be too.
Ever since I started heavily introducing beans into my diet, my hair has grown faster and healthier than ever at any other time in my life. I’ve had an issue with hair growth for as long as I can remember. All I’ve ever wanted in life is long, beautiful, flowing mermaid hair, and I was beginning to think that would never happen for me. Enter beans.
I have a newfound hope for luxurious butt-length hair due to my recent discovery that beans are great for hair growth. They’re a good source of protein and other essential nutrients for hair, like zinc, biotin, iron, and folate.
But wait — there’s more. Beans are also good for your skin. Because they contain zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, and selenium, they help combat acne and inflammation, increase elasticity, promote moisture, and repair damage. It sounds crazy, I know. But listen, I don’t even break out on my period anymore. One of the line cooks at work even called me a glowing sun goddess (okay, this one may be subjective, but you get the point).
Feeling constipated? Tummy issues? Fear not. The high fiber content in beans also aids in regular bowel movement and a healthier gut. For the sake of my reputation (and your will to continue reading), I will not go into detail about my personal experience with this one, but just trust me…game-changer.
Whether you’re looking to be a skinny queen, maintain your weight, or put some meat on your body, beans are the food for you. Their fiber, combined with the healthy starches they contain, fills you up and keeps you fuller longer, which can prevent overeating and promote a healthy weight. Their high protein content helps build muscle and makes them a good addition to any meal.
Because they are a source of plant-based protein, they are lower in calories and saturated fat than other protein sources, like meat or dairy.
They are full of antioxidants, which help protect the body from icky disease.
Beans are heart-healthy, too, with research even showing they can help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Their potassium content controls blood pressure, and their combination of carbs and fibers helps lower blood sugar.
Beans don’t only have many health benefits, but there are so many ways to prepare them and include them in meals. They’re easy and quick to make, can be stored in your cabinet forever, and easy on the pockets—you may not be able to afford eggs, but you can sure as hell afford beans.
So, next time you hit the grocery store, think twice before turning your nose up in the bean aisle. These underrated legumes may just be the dietary diamond you’ve been searching for.
Strike out,
Morgan Harms (AKA, The Bean Queen)
Boca Raton
Morgan Harms is the Senior Editor for Strike Magazine Boca. She’s a student journalist and creative writer who enjoys taking an artistic approach to her pieces. Her work ranges widely, from the hottest news stories, to college relationship drama, and even some sappy poetry. You can reach her by email at morganjharms@gmail.com or on Instagram @morganjharms and @morganjharmswrites.
