Looking for a low-calorie option that's rich in vitamins and nutrients? Look no further than 3 oz (85 g) of green snap beans, which pack just 20 calories per serving.

Not only are green snap beans low in calories, they're also rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and other important nutrients that contribute to good health.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits and health advantages of adding green snap beans to your diet. From aiding digestion to promoting better heart health, there are plenty of reasons to make green snap beans a regular part of your meal plan.

Low-Calorie Option for Weight Watchers

If you're trying to lose weight, green snap beans are a fantastic choice. Low in calories but high in fiber, they help you feel full and satisfied without packing on extra pounds. As part of a balanced and nutritious diet, green snap beans can be a tasty way to manage your weight and meet your nutritional needs. Plus, since green snap beans are so low in calories, you can enjoy large portions without worrying about overeating. In fact, a whole cup of cooked green snap beans contains just 44 calories!

Rich in Nutrients and Vitamins

Green snap beans are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that your body needs to stay healthy and function efficiently. For example, just one serving of green snap beans provides over 25% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and collagen synthesis. Additionally, green snap beans are a good source of vitamin K, which helps support strong bones, and folate, which can help reduce the risk of birth defects and promote healthy fetal development during pregnancy. And since they're low in sodium and high in potassium, green snap beans can also help regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Good for Digestive Health

Thanks to their high fiber content, green snap beans can also promote good digestive health. Fiber helps promote regularity and prevent constipation, while also promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that aid in digestion and nutrient absorption. Additionally, green snap beans contain a variety of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce the risk of digestive disorders like ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Suitable for Diabetic Patients

Green snap beans are also suitable for diabetic patients, thanks to their low glycemic index and high fiber content. Unlike high-glycemic foods like white potatoes and refined grains, which can cause blood sugar levels to spike and crash, green snap beans have a more gentle impact on blood glucose levels. And because they're high in fiber, green snap beans can also help slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, further supporting healthy blood sugar management.

Helps Lower Cholesterol Levels

Green snap beans have been shown to help lower cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease and other health problems. One study found that consuming a diet rich in green snap beans led to significant reductions in both total cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Green snap beans contain a type of soluble fiber called pectin, which can bind to cholesterol and prevent it from being absorbed into the bloodstream. Additionally, green snap beans are rich in antioxidants like flavonoids and carotenoids, which can also help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels.

Easy to Prepare and Serve

Preparing green snap beans couldn't be easier. Simply rinse them thoroughly under running water, trim off the stem ends, and then either steam them, boil them, or roast them in the oven until tender. Green snap beans can be served in a variety of ways, from simply drizzling them with olive oil and sea salt to tossing them with garlic, lemon juice, and slivered almonds for a more complex flavor profile. They can also be used in salads, stir-fries, casseroles, and other dishes for added nutrition and texture.

Versatile Ingredient in Different Recipes

Green snap beans can be used in a variety of recipes, from soups and stews to salads and side dishes. They're also a popular ingredient in Asian stir-fry dishes, and can be grilled, roasted, or sautéed for added texture and flavor. Some recipes that make use of green snap beans include green bean casserole, three-bean salad, and green bean and mushroom stir-fry. The possibilities are endless!

Fresh and Delicious Flavor

Green snap beans have a fresh and delicious flavor that pairs well with a variety of other foods. They're crisp and slightly sweet, with a satisfying crunch that makes them an enjoyable addition to any meal. And because they're so easy to prepare, you can enjoy green snap beans as a quick and healthy snack any time of day. Simply rinse them and munch away!

Affordable and Widely Available

Another great thing about green snap beans is that they're affordable and widely available. You can find them at nearly any grocery store or farmer's market, and they're typically reasonably priced even when they're not in season. This means you can enjoy the nutritional benefits of green snap beans without breaking the bank. And because they're so versatile, you can incorporate them into your meal plan in a variety of ways without getting bored or feeling limited in your options.

Promotes Overall Health

At the end of the day, green snap beans are an excellent food choice for anyone looking to promote overall health and well-being. Whether you're trying to lose weight, manage diabetes, or simply add more nutrients to your diet, green snap beans are a nutritious and delicious option. So why not give them a try? With their many health benefits, you'll be doing your body a favor by including them in your meal plan regularly.