Also known as: Paseolus angularis, adsuki, aduki, asuki, azuki, chi dou (Mandarin), feijao, field pea, hong xiao dou (Mandarin), red oriental, Tiensin red.
Adzuki beans are small red beans that originated in China. They are usually boiled with sugar and mashed into a sweet red bean paste that is used as a filling in many popular Asian desserts, including ice cream and in many savoury dishes. Adzuki beans, along with lentils and chickpeas, are a staple of the macrobiotic diet, which calls for the consumption of plenty of fibrous, protein-packed legumes. Like many other legumes, they are a good source of many nutrients.
The high fibre content of adzuki beans helps to balance cholesterol levels and the potassium in them relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow which helps to reduce the blood pressure. Regular consumption can help to normalise regular bowel movements and digestive health.
Since they are so low in calories and fat, yet high in nutrition they are ideal for those trying to lose weight. Additionally, they are relatively easy to digest, so they should not cause flatulence like other beans do.
Significant nutrients in adzuki beans
- Fibre
- Protein
- Starch
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B1 (thiamine)
- Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
- Vitamin B3 (niacin)
- Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
- Vitamin B9 (foliate)
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
Ailments adzuki beans can help to treat
- Cholesterol problems
- Constipation and diarrhoea
- Digestive issues
- High blood pressure
- Obesity and weight loss
See also