Healthy, glowing skin is the result of consistent efforts of various types. Aside from cosmetic and lifestyle factors, your broom also plays a key role in the health of your skin. We are often bombarded with advice and advertisements that make it seem like only expensive, foreign foods can help with skin care. But this is not true. Many everyday ingredients used to make your usual ghar ka Khana are actually loaded with benefits for your skin. One such food category is beans. Common types used in Indian cuisine include green moong (mung beans), rajma (kidney beans), lobia/chawli (black-eyed beans), chana (garbanzo beans/chickpeas), matki (moth beans) and others. Here’s why you should consider adding them to your diet:
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Here are 3 important benefits of beans for skin health:
1. They are a great source of protein
Beans are a great source of plant-based protein. Photo credit: iStock
Protein is a macronutrient that is important for your body and also for your skin. Protein helps nourish and repair your skin, maintaining its structure and overall health. Beans are a great source of vegetarian, plant-based protein. Thus, they can naturally boost your skin’s health when consumed regularly.
2. They are rich in antioxidants
Beans are also loaded with antioxidants. They offer protection against free radical damage and may have anti-aging effects. So if you want youthful and glowing skin in the long run, make sure to add beans to your diet.
3. They contain skin-friendly nutrients
Legumes, including beans, are considered a good source of zinc, which can improve skin health. Zinc can help reduce inflammation and dull skin and also protect your skin from sun damage. Beans also contain other skin-friendly nutrients and elements. Kidney beans and soybeans have Omega-3 fatty acids, which can play a significant role in improving your skin.
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How to use beans for skin care: 4 easy and healthy ideas
1. Add them to your salad
Photo credit: iStock
When done right, salads can do wonders for your skin. The flavorful combination of nutritious vegetables with other healthy ingredients is something you shouldn’t miss. Many people add some form of protein like paneer, tofu or chicken to their salads. You can also make cooked/boiled beans for the protein in your salad. Here is an easy recipe for a simple mixed bean salad to give you an idea.
2. Make traditional bean recipes
As mentioned earlier, different types of beans are a regular part of Indian cuisine. Many of these preparations are reminiscent of curry or sabzi dishes flavored with rice or rotis. When it comes to traditional recipes, there is no shortage of healthy options to choose from. Just make sure you control the use of oil and salt to get the maximum benefit.
Also read: 10 Best Green Moong Recipes | Easy Mung Bean Recipes
3. Add bean sprouts to various dishes
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You can also sprout beans at home or buy sprouted beans from the market. Sprouting is said to increase the nutritional value of beans and can therefore offer you several benefits. You can add sprouts to a variety of foods, from dosas and tikkis to curries and pulao. Here are a few healthy recipes for your reference.
4. Use beans to make snacks and other treats
You can also use beans to make healthy snacks including cutlets (not deep fried), vegetable kebabs, nutritious chaats, homemade burger patties and more. You can use beans as a filling in your rolls and wraps for a satisfying meal or even as a tiffin food. There are so many possibilities! So you better get started soon.
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Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical advice. Always contact a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not accept responsibility for this information.