Because of their high fiber content, we already know that beans are beneficial for gut health. However, refried beans are a lesser-known improvement that could be even better for your digestion. When slow-cooked and mashed, they are much less likely to cause bloating or gassiness, simpler to digest than whole beans, and kinder to your stomach.
Unexpectedly potent gut-health advantages of refried beans, a simple dish that most people ignore despite its remarkable nutritional value. The surgeon says in an Instagram video posted on January 20 that, despite their unappealing look, refried beans serve as a fine-dining treat for your gut bacteria because of their rich and varied fiber content.
The potency of fried beans
Cooked, mashed pinto beans are a fine-dining feast for your gut flora because of their abundant fiber and resistant starch content, which support a healthier microbiome, even if refried beans may appear to be a can full of unappealing mush. The surgeon refers to them as a “fermentation gold mine,” pointing out that they have 16 grams of fiber per 100 grams, which are composed of several types of fiber that actively promote microbial diversity and intestinal fermentation.
Although it may appear to be dog food, this is actually one of the healthiest foods for intestinal health. Because they are cooked, mashed pinto beans, refried beans have this appearance. Furthermore, refried beans are a fermentation gold mine hidden beneath the post-apocalyptic infant food look. In addition to having 16 grams of fiber per 100 grams, they also include a variety of fermentable fibers, such as pectin, galacto-oligosaccharides, and resistant starch types one and three.
What makes these fibers so crucial?
For your gut bacteria, the varied fiber profile of refried beans functions as a multi-course banquet, feeding not just one strain but several distinct kinds of germs, each of which thrives in a different part of the colon.
This is significant because various bacteria exploit this varied fiber matrix as a multi-course tasting menu. Not only do the fibers in refried beans support good bacteria, but they also, and this is important, support various bacteria that reside in various parts of your colon. Deeper microbial diversity is produced as a result. And you know how chilling makes cold potatoes and leftover spaghetti healthier? The same idea applies to refried beans. Because they are pre-cooked, refried beans have even more type 3 resistant starch—the “wagyu beef” of fibers—than beans, which already include resistant starch—the thing your gut flora adore.
Advantages for health
Refried beans’ resistant starch improves insulin sensitivity, blood glucose regulation, and intestinal health. Additionally, because they are broken down by long boiling and mashing, they are less taxing on the digestive system than whole beans.
Resistant starch helps with everything from insulin sensitivity to reducing postmeal glucose and even supporting colon health. Additionally, refried beans are simpler to stomach than whole beans since they are mashed and slow-cooked. As a result, your rectum will make less loud excursions. Therefore, even though they might seem like something your dog graciously refuses, your gut microbes will like them.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a health advice. We would ask you to consult a qualified professional or medical expert to gain additional knowledge before you choose to consume any product or perform any exercise.
