Health Benefits Of Fava Bean

The binomial name of fava bean is vicia faba. It belongs to the Fabaceae species of beans and is native to the Southwest Asia and North Africa. Besides the name fava bean, it is known by many other terms, such as broad bean, fava bean, faba bean, field bean, bell bean, and tic bean. It is one of the oldest food legumes, with cultivation dating back to some 5000 years ago. Fava beans actually belong to the pea family, possessing a strong and unique flavor. They are highly nutritious and prove to be a powerful storehouse of many essential nutrients required by the body, especially phosphorus, potassium, vitamin K, vitamin A and iron. In addition, the beans also find a respectable place in the legendary tales of different countries. Fava bean is quite famous across Europe, Africa and Southwest Asia. Read on to know all about the health benefits of fava beans and explore their nutritional value as well.

Nutritional Value Of Fava Beans

Amount of Fava Beans:170 g (1 cup)

Nutrients	Amount
Protein	12.9 g
Water	122 g
Ash	1.4 g
Fiber	9.2 g
Fats
Total Fat	0.7 g
Saturated Fat	0.1 g
Monounsaturated Fat	0.1 g
Polyunsaturated Fat	0.3 g
Calories
Total Calories	783 KJ
From Carbohydrate	569 KJ
From Fat	23.9 kJ
From Protein	188 KJ
Fatty Acids
Omega-3 Fatty Acids	20.4 mg
Omega-6 Fatty Acids	258 mg
Carbohydrates
Total Carbohydrates	33.4 g
Dietary Fiber	9.2 g
Sugar	3.1 g
Vitamins
Vitamin A IU	25.5 IU
Vitamin A (retinol activity equiv)	1.7 mcg
Beta Carotene	15.3 mcg
Riboflavin	0.2 mg
Niacin	1.2 mg
Thiamin	0.2 mg
Vitamin B6	0.1 mg
Folate	177 mcg
Vitamin K	4.9 mcg
Dietary Folate Equivalents	177 mcg
Vitamin C	0.5 mg
Pantothenic Acid	0.3 mg
Choline	52 mg
Minerals
Calcium	61.2 mg
Iron	2.5 mg
Magnesium	73.1 mg
Phosphorus	212 mg
Potassium	456 mg
Zinc	1.7 mg
Copper	0.4 mg
Selenium	4.4 mcg
Sodium	8.5 mg

Nutrition & Health Benefits Of Eating Fava Beans

Fava bean has high concentrations of an amino acid known as L-dopa (dopamine), which works as a neurotransmitter in the brain.
The bean is low in calories and fat and has no cholesterol, hence making it ideal for health conscious individuals.
It is rich in fiber, which is required by the body to move food through the digestive system.
Fava beans are a very good source of phosphorus in the body, which is required for the formation of healthy bones and teeth. In addition, it also helps the body utilize vitamins.
The good amount of potassium in fava beans helps the body maintain blood pressure and regulate heart function.
The bean is rich in vitamin A that is required by the body to maintain healthy skin and promote proper vision, growth and bone development.
It serves as a rich source of thiamin, which is essential to maintain normal nerve function.

Consumption & Storage Tips

When buying fava beans, pinch them a little, to make sure that they are firm.In addition,the skin of the bean can have blemishes, but it should not bear dark spots.
The beans are available in the market throughout the year, in canned, frozen as well as dried form.
Fresh fava beans have to be cooked and prepared within one week and should be consumed within two days of cooking.
If you are using dried beans, take only half of the amount of beans required, as they will become almost double after cooking.
The fava beans take a longer time to prepare, as compared to the other beans in their family.
Mature fava beans should be taken out from the pod, before eating, while the younger ones can be taken with the pod as well.

Caution

Exposure to raw fava beans can cause serious allergic reaction, known as favism, in some individuals.
Fava beans are high in complex carbohydrates and can create gastric problems in individuals, along with abdominal pains.

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