Diet Mail Diet Mail - May 2014, Mother's Day Special | Page 9

FOOD OF THE MONTH

BLACK BEANS

Did you know that black beans are as rich in antioxidant compounds called anthocyanins as grapes and
cranberries, fruits long considered antioxidant superstars? According to Research published in the Journal of
Agriculture and Food Chemistry, when researchers analyzed different types of beans, they found that the darker
the bean's seed coat, the higher its level of antioxidant activity. Gram for gram, black beans were found to have
the most antioxidant activity, followed in descending order by red, brown, yellow, and white beans. Overall, the
level of antioxidants found in black beans in this study is approximately 10 times that found in an equivalent
amount of oranges, and comparable to that found in an equivalent amount of grapes or cranberries. Of course,
black beans, like other beans, are also a rich source of cholesterol-lowering fiber, making them heart healthy as
well as a great choice for those who have difficulty stabilizing their blood sugar levels.
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