Dragon tongue beans are called that way because of the way they look — they’re broad and about 6 inches in length, and are cream colored with purple flecks on them. Everything from the pods to the beans within can be eaten either raw or cooked if they’re harvested young. When mature, the beans are the only ones consumed, either as they are or dried.
Read on to know more about dragon tongue beans, most especially the health benefits they offer. Afterwards, share this article to let your health-conscious family members and friends know about them, too!
Dragon tongue beans are very much related to green beans, and they come abundantly in the middle of summer and through the entirety of autumn. Usually, they are harvested while they’re young — at such stage, dragon tongue beans are tender and crisp, and more importantly stringless. It’s for this reason why they can be eaten raw or cooked.
You can toss some dragon tongue beans into a bowl of salad, or have them stir fried together with other vegetables. A lot of people love to boil or steam them, too, usually seasoned with butter or herbs afterwards. Do take note that when exposed to high temperatures, the purple flecks on dragon tongue beans immediately fade.
However, mature dragon tongue beans can no longer be eaten raw as the pods tend to be already tough and stringy. But it doesn’t mean that they are no longer consumable — the beans within can still be consumed just like any other beans, commonly boiled. Oftentimes, they are allowed to dry and then used for a variety of purposes.
These are some of the health benefits provided by dragon tongue beans:
Increased Muscle Mass
Dragon tongue beans contain excellent amounts of protein. Vegetarians most especially should include them in their diet to make sure that they get enough of the said muscle-building nutrient. Protein, by the way, is also vital for healthy skin, hair and nails, and also for the production of certain hormones and enzymes in the body.
Reduced Constipation Risk
Just like many other beans out there, dragon tongue beans are rich in fiber. Their regular consumption helps in fending off constipation as their fiber content creates bulk that facilitates the evacuation of the bowels.
Lowered Risk of Heart Disease
Fiber present abundantly in dragon tongue beans may also lower a person’s risk of having heart disease, doctors say. It’s for the fact that fiber helps in the removal of excess bad cholesterol that can clog up the arteries. Dragon tongue beans also have potassium that helps keep at bay high blood pressure, a risk factor for heart attack and stroke.
Boosted Eye Health
You can also obtain good amounts of vitamin A from every serving of dragon tongue beans. Eye experts say that vitamin A is crucial for maintaining sharp vision and also shielding the eyes from a variety of problems.
Strengthened Immunity
Dragon tongue beans supply the body with vitamin C, too. As everybody knows, the said nutrient is so important for keeping the immune system strong. With a strong immune system, your risk of having the flu, cold or any other infection of the upper respiratory tract can be considerably reduced.
