Can You Eat Raw Green Beans? Nutritional Benefits & Safety
– Raw green beans contain lectins, which can cause symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and bloating if consumed in high amounts.
– Some varieties of raw green beans can contain 4.8-1,100 mg of lectin per 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of seeds.
– It is best to avoid eating raw green beans to prevent potential toxicity.
– Cooking green beans may lead to nutrient loss, particularly water-soluble vitamins like folate and vitamin C.
– Most lectins in raw green beans are inactivated when boiled or cooked at 212°F (100°C).
– Cooking may increase the antioxidant content in green beans, particularly carotenoids like beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin.
– Cooking also enhances the bioavailability of isoflavones, which are linked to various health benefits including heart disease protection and reduced risk of certain cancers.
– Green beans can be prepared in various ways including boiling, steaming, and microwaving.
– Green beans can be consumed on their own, added to salads or used in soups, stews, and casseroles.
– Green beans are available in fresh, canned, and frozen forms.
– It is recommended to rinse green beans before cooking and trim the tips to remove hard ends.