Broad beans: Health Benefits, Nutrients and Uses

Medically Reviewed by Checkmark Medically Reviewed By: Sheela Krishnaswamy
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Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Broad beans or fava beans or Vicia faba is a legume. Although Indians consume many legumes (pulses are dry seeds of legumes), they do not consume beans as frequently. Therefore, experts think that broad beans are among the underutilized crops. 

Broad beans readily grow in various parts of India, especially in the Northern plains. They are rich in nutrients. Broad beans are also an excellent vegan source of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber like other legumes. However, it is especially rich in folate. Additionally, it is a rich source of various bioactive compounds, which may explain many health benefits of broad beans.

Prevents neural tube defect and orofacial clefts

Neural tube defects are the most common congenital disabilities globally. The estimates of global prevalence of neural tube defects are about 1 to 2 per live birth. However, studies show that congenital disabilities like neural tube defects and orofacial clefts are much higher in India. It is perhaps 2-3 times higher than the global average.

However, it is a highly preventable condition. It is estimated that more than 70% of such congenital disabilities are preventable through folate supplementation and proper prenatal care. However, prenatal care is not as good in India, and awareness regarding the importance of folate supplementation during pregnancy is low. 

Additionally, considering India has an unusually high prevalence of neural tube defects, it is highly likely that 80-90% of these cases can be prevented with a high folate diet. Thus, regular consumption of broad beans by pregnant women could be an effective way to prevent this congenital disability.

Helps prevent and manage Parkinson’s

Neurodegenerative diseases are rising globally, and India is no exception. It is a condition characterised by motor symptoms like tremors, slow movements, rigidity, speech changes. Parkinson’s also causes changes in cognitive ability like poor memory, anxiety, depression, and other issues.

Although epidemiological data from India are scarce, most neurodegenerative diseases are rising. It is estimated that more than 300 adults per 100000 above the age of 60 are affected by Parkinson’s in India.

The primary cause of Parkinson’s is dopamine deficiency in the substantia nigra, one of the brain centers. It is effectively treated by boosting the brain’s dopamine level. Thus, levodopa is one of its most effective treatments.

Broad beans are among the few food items that are naturally rich in levodopa. Thus, one of the clinical trials found a significant improvement in Parkinson’s symptoms in patients four hours after consuming 250 gms cooked broad beans.

Boosts immunity and may have a role in lowering the risk of covid-19

Legumes are generally regarded as suitable for immunity as they are rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, dietary fiber, and much more. It seems that broad beans/fava beans are no exception.

Additionally, studies show that broad beans have proteins that can help reduce inflammation and reduce levels of specific cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-alpha. Furthermore, some proteins in the beans may be protease inhibitors and may help reduce viral replication. 

Broad beans have been studied extensively for their antiviral properties. Some studies suggest that they contain compounds similar to hydroxychloroquine. However, these compounds in broad beans are much safer and do not cause side effects characteristic of medications.

Good for those living with iron deficiency anemia

Broad beans are rich in micronutrients and have small amounts of iron. Additionally, they are rich in folate. Thus, they may play an important role in managing anemia.

However, a word of caution, people living with a rare genetic disorder called favism should avoid broad beans, as it may cause hemolytic anemia in these individuals.

Good for the heart and may help lower blood pressure

Although Indians consume a predominantly plant-based diet, they are still prone to develop diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. It is due to the high dietary content of carbs, low intake of green vegetables, fruits, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Studies show that including broad beans in diet may help normalize metabolism, reduce blood pressure, and have a cardioprotective effect. In addition, broad beans are also good for kidneys. However, studies suggest that many such benefits could be due to the diuretic effect of broad beans

Some population-based studies from the US also support these findings. For example, a population-based nutrition survey in the US shows that those who consumed more beans had lower systolic blood pressure, body weight, and even smaller waist circumference.

Additionally, it is highly likely that it may exert cardioprotective action due to its high content of polyphenols and flavonols. Flavonols and dietary fiber in broad beans help lower cholesterol levels and boost nitric oxide metabolism, too.

Promotes weight loss

Broad beans are rich in polyphenols, dietary fiber, micronutrients, and at the same time, low in calories. Therefore, they promote weight loss and, at the same time, protect from nutritional deficiencies. Thus, a low-calorie diet, physical exercise, and a diet rich in broad beans can help weight loss. Those on strict dietary measures can consume broad beans without worrying much that it may add to total calorie intake.

Beware of favism – a rare side effect of broad beans

Favism is an extremely rare genetic disorder. It is diagnosed in childhood in most cases. Individuals living with this disorder cannot tolerate broad beans or fava beans. They are genetically deficient in an enzyme called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (or G6PD). Thus, consuming broad beans may make them severely sick.

Final thoughts

Broad beans have many health benefits. However, these beans are among the less consumed legumes in India. It stands out from other legumes in two ways; it is rich in folate and levodopa. Thus, it may help prevent neural tube defects and is suitable for pregnant women. In addition, it has a unique role in preventing and managing Parkinson’s.

High dietary levodopa consumption is also known to increase mental alertness, reduce stress, boost energy levels. Levodopa is also suitable for memory retention. Additionally, levodopa increases calmness and is also known to boost testosterone levels. Unfortunately, science has still not discovered all the health effects of broad beans.

Despite increasing interest in these beans, there is definitely a need for more clinical studies. These beans have many more bioactive compounds waiting to be discovered.

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

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Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

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Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

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Garima Dev Verman
Garima Dev Verman
The author is a qualified nutritionist and diabetes educator. She fact checks and analyses diet and nutrition-based content on THIP
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