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October 26, 2023
October 4, 2024
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Green beans, often regarded as a versatile and nutritious vegetable, have gained attention for their potential benefits for individuals managing blood sugar levels. Packed with essential nutrients like vitamins C and K, green beans boast a relatively low glycemic index, making them a favorable choice for those aiming to control their blood sugar. Additionally, their rich content of antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, underscores their potential role in promoting overall health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Green beans are also a significant source of folate and manganese, offering various health benefits beyond their impact on glycemic control.¹ 

This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of green beans on blood sugar levels and their broader health implications, serving as a valuable resource for individuals seeking to optimize their diet for better health management.

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Glycemic Index Table

The glycemic index of green beans is approximately 15.² With a serving size of 100 grams, green beans contain about 7 grams of carbohydrates per serving.¹ Considering the glycemic load (GL) per serving, which takes into account both the quality and quantity of carbohydrates, the GL of green beans is around 1. 

The glycemic index (GI) is a relative ranking of carbohydrates in foods according to how they affect blood glucose levels. Foods with a low GI (55 or less) are digested and absorbed at a slower rate, causing a slower and lower rise in blood glucose levels. This slower digestion can help control blood sugar levels and is beneficial for individuals, especially those with diabetes. It's important to note that the cooking method may influence the glycemic index of green beans. Boiling or steaming green beans is likely to have less impact on their glycemic index compared to other cooking methods, such as frying.

Glycemic Index

15

Serving Size

100g

Carbohydrate* per Serving (g)

7 g

GL per Serving

1.00

Nutritional Facts

Green beans are a nutrient-dense vegetable, rich in essential vitamins and minerals. They are a notable source of dietary fiber, providing approximately 3.4 grams of fiber per 100 grams, contributing to improved digestion, and promoting a healthy gut.¹ Moreover, green beans are a good source of vitamins C and K, with 100 grams supplying around 16.3 milligrams of vitamin C and 14.4 micrograms of vitamin K, supporting immune function and bone health, respectively.¹

The nutritional information below is for 100 g of green beans.¹

Calories

89.21 kcal

Carbs

7 g

Protein

3.46 g

Fiber

3.4 g

Cholesterol

6.99 mg

Vitamins

A (50.88 µg), B12 (0.05 µg), B6 (0.15 mg), C (16.3 mg), D (1.73 IU).

Sodium

169.93 mg

Total Fat

4.92 g

Is Green Bean Good for Weight Loss?

Green beans can be a valuable addition to a weight loss diet due to their low-calorie content and high fiber density. With approximately 31 calories per 100-gram serving and significant fiber content, green beans can promote satiety, helping individuals feel fuller for longer periods and potentially reducing overall calorie intake.¹ Additionally, the fiber in green beans can aid in regulating digestion and promoting a healthy gut microbiome, which may further support weight management efforts.

According to research from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, incorporating high-fiber foods like green beans into one's diet can contribute to successful long-term weight management strategies.

Is Green Bean Safe for People Living with Diabetes?

Green beans can be a safe and beneficial addition to the diet of individuals with diabetes. With their low glycemic index and carbohydrate content, green beans are considered a suitable choice for managing blood sugar levels. Moreover, the presence of dietary fiber in green beans can contribute to improved glycemic control, aiding blood sugar regulation. 

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), incorporating green beans into a balanced diet can be a part of an overall healthy eating plan for individuals with diabetes, providing essential nutrients without significantly impacting blood sugar levels.

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Allergies

While green beans are generally considered safe and beneficial for most individuals, allergic reactions to green beans are possible, albeit rare. Allergic responses to green beans may manifest as symptoms such as itching, hives, swelling, or, in severe cases, anaphylaxis. Those with existing legume allergies, such as to peanuts or soybeans, may be more susceptible to developing an allergy to green beans.

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), cross-reactivity between green beans and other legumes may occur, leading to allergic responses in sensitive individuals. Therefore, individuals with known legume allergies should exercise caution when introducing green beans into their diet.

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FAQs

What is Glycemic Index?

The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of how quickly a carbohydrate-containing food raises blood sugar levels compared to a reference food, usually glucose. It ranks foods on a scale from 0 to 100, with higher values indicating a faster rise in blood sugar. The glycemic index (GI) scale is typically categorized as follows: Low GI [55 or less], Medium GI [56-69], High GI [70 or higher]. Foods with a high glycemic index digest rapidly and can cause dramatic fluctuations in blood glucose or glucose spikes.

What is Glycemic Load?

Glycemic load (GL) takes into account both the quality (glycemic index) and quantity (carbohydrate content) of carbohydrates in a specific serving of food. It is a measure of how much a particular food will raise blood sugar levels. GL is calculated by multiplying the glycemic index of a food by its carbohydrate content and dividing it by 100. It provides a more accurate representation of the overall impact of a food on blood sugar compared to the glycemic index alone.

Does Green Bean Spike Insulin?

Yes, green beans can spike insulin levels. Green beans have a moderate glycemic index, which means they can cause a moderate increase in blood sugar levels and subsequently insulin levels. However, the spike in insulin levels is not as significant as with high glycemic index foods. It is important to note that the effect of green beans on insulin levels can vary depending on the individual's metabolism and the amount consumed.

Is Green Bean Low Glycemic?

Yes, green beans are considered low glycemic as they have a glycemic index of 15.

Can People Living with Diabetes Eat Green Bean?

Yes, people living with diabetes can eat green beans as they are low in carbohydrates and have a low glycemic index, which means they do not cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. However, it is important to monitor portion sizes and consume them as part of a balanced diet.

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References

  1. USDA FoodData Central. (2022, October 28). Food Details - Beans, snap, green, raw. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/2346400/nutrients 
  2. The University of Sydney. (2023, May 1). Glycemic Index – Glycemic Index Research and GI Newshttps://glycemicindex.com/

About the author

It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable content of a page when looking at its layout.

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About the author

Brittany Barry is a national board-certified health coach and NASM-certified personal trainer based in South Carolina.

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Please note: The Signos team is committed to sharing insightful and actionable health articles that are backed by scientific research, supported by expert reviews, and vetted by experienced health editors. The Signos blog is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. Read more about our editorial process and content philosophy here.

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