Vietnam has a type of grain known as 'black gold', very good for the kidneys.

Black beans, one of the familiar foods in Vietnamese cuisine, are not only a valuable source of nutrition but also considered a precious medicinal herb in oriental medicine. The health value of black beans is also recognized by many scientific studies.

Nutritional value of black beans

According to scientific research, black beans contain many important nutrients such as: protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. In 100g of black beans, there are about 24g of protein, accounting for nearly 1/3 of the daily protein needs of an adult.

In addition, black beans are also a source of soluble fiber, which helps improve digestion and control blood sugar levels.

In addition, black beans are also rich in antioxidants such as anthocyanins, polyphenol compounds found in bean shells.

Research from the journalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistryshows that anthocyanins have the ability to protect the body from free radicals, prevent aging and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Health benefits from an oriental medicine perspective

In traditional medicine, black beans are considered a precious medicinal herb with the effects of nourishing the kidneys, clearing heat, diuresis and detoxification.

According toShennong's Herbal, black beans have the effect of nourishing yin, replenishing qi and improving kidney function. The kidney is considered an important organ in oriental medicine, related to overall health, and nourishing the kidney can help improve overall health, prolong life and increase vitality.

Black beans are also used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases. For example, in case of internal heat, drinking black bean water every day can help cool down and detoxify the body. Traditional medicine also uses black beans combined with other herbs to treat bone and joint pain, especially for the elderly.

Cholesterol control

Many modern scientific studies have confirmed the health benefits of black beans, while also shedding light on the valuable nutritional compounds in this bean.

A study fromNational Institutes of Health(NIH) shows that eating black beans regularly can help control blood cholesterol levels. Specifically, people who consume black beans daily have lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) than those who do not use this food.

This reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, one of the leading causes of death worldwide.

In addition, another study published in the journalNutrientsshows that black beans can help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Scientists have discovered that the fiber in black beans has the ability to control glucose absorption and prevent spikes in blood sugar after meals.

This is especially important for people who are at high risk for diabetes or are managing it.

Black beans also have significant benefits in supporting weight loss. Thanks to their high fiber content, black beans help increase feelings of fullness, thereby limiting excessive calorie consumption during the day.

Good for bones and joints

For the elderly, bone and joint health is a top concern. Black beans contain minerals such as calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, which are important for strong bones.

A study fromAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutritionindicates that supplementing calcium-rich foods like black beans can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures in older adults.

How to use black beans effectively

Black beans can be prepared in many ways, from sweet desserts to nutritious black bean porridge. For busy people, roasted black bean water is a great choice to replenish energy and strengthen resistance.

However, it should be noted that black beans should be used appropriately to avoid indigestion. For those with a history of stomach problems, they should avoid eating raw or undercooked black beans, because they contain compounds that cause discomfort to the digestive system.