Long ago, when food was scarce, beans were an important source of protein. But as food became more abundant, the venerable bean was all but forgotten. In this article we will examine everything you wanted to know about beans — from traditional health techniques using beans, to current bean-related information.
Beans, beans, they’re good for it all — cancer, high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, stroke, osteoporosis, beautiful skin and even Alzheimer’s disease.
BEANS TO KEEP THE DOCTOR AWAY
Our Japanese ancestors ate many varieties of beans to keep up their healthy, active life- style. They knew from experience that eating beans gave them power and energy. Today, modern science is confirming the power of beans. In a day and and age when people are only considered “half healthy,” beans are once again getting the recognition they deserve.
Dr. Tetsuhiro Shigeno, director of the Shigeno Clinic, firmly believes in the power of soybeans, soybean products and beans in general. Dr. Shigeno has combined both Western and Eastern medicine, added traditional Japanese foods and specific functional foods, and incorporated them into a diet to treat cancer and other diseases.
Since 1953, the number of Japanese suffering from lifestyle related diseases such as high blood pressure and stroke — “adult diseases,” as they are commonly known — has increased dramatically. This increase appears to be related to changes in the Japanese diet. Since 1953, the consumption of rice and other grains has decreased, while consumption of dairy products and meats with no vegetables increases the body’s bad cholesterol levels. To prevent cholesterol levels from increasing, it is essential to eat foods that contain healthy proteins and fats.
“This is why it is important to eat beans which contain healthy proteins and unsaturated fatty acids. Beans come in many varieties, each with its own special qualities. I hope people incorporate a variety of beans into their diet, not just a single variety,” said Dr. Shigeno.
(Translated by Roy Mashima)
(The information provided should not be construed as medical advice or instruction. Consult your physician before attempting any new program. Readers who fail to consult appropriate health authorities assume the risk of developing serious medical conditions.)
