Yicheng Kidney Beans

Yicheng Kidney Beans

　　Kidney beans are highly nutritious. According to measurements, every 100 grams of kidney beans contain 23.1 grams of protein, 1.3 grams of fat, 56.9 grams of carbohydrates, 76 milligrams of calcium, and a rich amount of B vitamins. Fresh beans also provide abundant vitamin C. In terms of nutritional content, their protein level is higher than that of chicken, the calcium content is more than seven times that of chicken, the iron content is four times as much, and the B vitamins are also higher than those in chicken. Kidney beans can be used as an ingredient in developing new nutritious staple food varieties when combined with grains. The beans are plump and large, and can be boiled or stewed. They also have high medicinal value. Ancient Chinese medical texts record that kidney beans taste sweet and mild, with a warm nature, and offer benefits such as warming the middle energizer and regulating qi, aiding the stomach and intestines, relieving hiccups, and nourishing kidneys and replenishing vitality. They are considered a premium tonic and dietary remedy.

Kidney beans are also a rare food that is high in potassium and magnesium yet low in sodium. They contain 1520 milligrams of potassium, 193.5 milligrams of magnesium, and only 0.8–0.9 milligrams of sodium per 100 grams. This characteristic makes them highly valuable in nutritional therapy. Kidney beans are especially suitable for people with heart disease, arteriosclerosis, high blood lipids, hypokalemia, and those on a salt-restricted diet.

Modern medical analysis suggests that kidney beans also contain unique components such as saponins, urease, and various globulins. These have functions such as enhancing the body’s immune capability, boosting disease resistance, activating T lymphocytes, and promoting DNA synthesis. They also inhibit the development of tumor cells, which has drawn attention from the medical community. The urease they contain is particularly effective in treating patients with hepatic coma.

Kidney beans are a highly nutritious food, but their seeds contain a toxic protein that can only be destroyed at high temperatures. Therefore, kidney beans must be thoroughly cooked to eliminate harmful factors, maximize their benefits, and minimize risks, thereby making the most of their nutritional value.