Unlock your genetic potential or gift the power of personalized health. Browse our Supersaver Packs now.
The term ‘saturated fat’ has been associated with dietary red flags for years. Several studies have shown that saturated fats can cause cholesterol buildup, arterial blockage, and poor overall health. However, new research says these may be due to even-chain saturated fats - molecules with an even number of carbon atoms. On the other hand, odd-chain saturated fats like C15 fatty acids could be the key to promoting several facets of overall health. Are they really as healthy as they seem?
C15:0, or pentadecanoic acid, is an odd-chain saturated fatty acid.
It has an odd number of carbon molecules (15 to be exact) in its rigid, chain-like structure.
C15:0 exists in trace levels as dairy fat in butter and other milk-based products.
There’s a taboo surrounding all saturated fats, so how come odd-chain saturated fats promote health?
The answer lies in their metabolism.
Even-chain saturated fatty acids break down to produce acetyl CoA. This molecule helps generate energy through the Krebs cycle and promotes fat storage.
Odd-chain saturated fats break down to produce propionyl CoA, a molecule whose primary function is to replenish energy through the Krebs cycle. It doesn’t promote fat synthesis and storage.
Thus, odd-chain saturated fats are healthier than even-chain saturated fatty acids.
In fact, pure C15:0 in the body performs several functions.
It can:
To produce a 15-carbon-long fatty acid, your body can either concatenate smaller fatty acids or break down larger ones. Here’s how these processes work:
Experts agree that the ideal concentration of C15 in the bloodstream is 10-30 micromoles (µM). Consuming 100 to 300mg of C15 daily can maintain healthy levels of this fatty acid.
Since research is ongoing, experts haven't finalized the exact limits and range yet.
A C15 deficiency could set in if you don’t consume at least 100mg of C15:0 daily.
The mitochondria regulate metabolism at a cellular level.
As you age, the processes in your mitochondria slow down, leading to a poorer metabolic rate and easier onset of more diseases.
C15 molecules can be elongated to C23:0 fatty acids, which can then be broken down into valuable compounds like propionyl coenzyme A (CoA).
Propionyl CoA helps replenish and prolong the Krebs cycle, an essential part of metabolism.
Thus, C15 can help restore metabolic function in aging people.
C15 can be converted to penta-decyl-carnitine (PDC).
PDC can cross the (very selective) blood-brain barrier and influence the chemical environment there.
PPARα is a receptor that controls inflammation and metabolism in several body parts.
Beyond the blood-brain barrier, it promotes better cognition, sleep, and overall mood.
Research has shown that C15:0 can activate the PPAR pathway to a moderate extent.
This finding was confirmed across different genes and receptors, proving that C15 can improve overall brain health.
Several studies have investigated the effect of odd-chain saturated fats (15:0 and 17:0) on plasma glucose levels.
They found an inverse relationship between these factors, meaning that higher levels of C15 were associated with lower fasting plasma glucose levels.
This relationship is clinically relevant across different liver fat levels, BMIs, ages, and sexes.
Whole milk contains several even-chain saturated fats, such as stearic and palmitic acid, which have been associated with several health complications in the long term.
Consequently, the consumption of whole-fat milk has decreased, but the prevalence of heart disease has persisted.
An 18-year-long study of over 25,000 people noted that children who regularly consumed whole-fat milk while growing up were less likely to be obese or have dangerous heart conditions.
This is likely due to the effect of the trace content of odd-chain saturated fatty acids (like C15) in whole milk.
The harmful effects of overconsuming saturated fats were established decades ago.
As health awareness grew, people avoided them, but the prevalence of life-threatening metabolic diseases didn’t waver.
With the recent light shed on the benefits of odd-chain saturated fats like C15, scientists have noted that its population-wide concentration is lower than it should be due to the taboo around all saturated fats.
Despite being an essential fatty acid, its endogenous production (within the body) is extremely slow.
Thus, some experts recommend consuming more C15 through diet or supplementation.
Dairy fats like butter are the best dietary sources of C15, with up to 880mg of C15 per 100g of butter.
However, they are also laden with unhealthy, even-chain saturated fats.
Cattle meats like beef have around 350mg C15 per 100g of butter.
Like omega-3 fatty acids, C15:0 is also naturally present in fatty fish, with 160mg of C15:0 per 100g.
The vitamins with the most significant impact on C15 levels are:
Seraphina Pharmaceuticals has obtained an exclusive license to produce and distribute C15 supplements.
Their fatty15 capsules contain 100mg of C15, and they recommend consuming one a day.
The recommended duration for C15:0 supplementation is 12 weeks.
This regimen has helped lower glucose, cholesterol, inflammation, and rate of weight gain in models of obesity, diabetes, and fatty liver disease.
Several studies have validated C15:0’s ability to activate beneficial receptor pathways across the body, enhancing overall health.
Stephanie Lappe, a registered dietitian, reviewed fatty15 and rated it 4.2 out of 5 stars.
“The unfolding research on C15:0’s benefits is fascinating. As a dietitian and health enthusiast, I’m eager to see if and how future research on Fatty15 and the role of C15:0 shapes dietary recommendations”, she said.
However, there haven’t been enough validated studies in human populations to confirm the positive effects of C:15 supplementation.
Seraphina Pharmaceuticals has an A+ rating on the Better Business Bureau and a perfect 100% on ScamAdvisor.
On Reddit, it has a positive word of mouth, with several customers praising its effect on overall health.
Since it’s relatively new, most consumers have an overall positive opinion of Fatty15’s supplements.
The FDA has certified Fatty15 as ‘generally recognized as safe (GRAS)’.
There are no warnings against taking the supplements while pregnant or breastfeeding. So far, no reported side effects or contraindications of C15 have been reported.
C15 supplements can significantly benefit people who generally avoid dairy.
This can include people on a strict vegan diet or those with lactose intolerance.
Since it can boost metabolism, it can also benefit people who are starting to see the downsides of aging.
People who regularly consume C15 through dairy fats like butter may not need C15 supplementation.
They can meet their C15 requirements quickly.
It’s always best to consult a registered dietitian, nutritionist, or physician before starting or stopping a supplement regimen,
The best natural source of C15 is unsalted butter, with around 880mg of C15 per 100g.
The best non-dairy source of C15 is cattle beef, with 350mg of C15 per 100g.
Since C15 plays a significant role in metabolism and energy production, people with C15 deficiency exhibit general symptoms like fatigue and poor sleep, but they are also at a higher risk of developing conditions like anemia, heart disease, and diabetes.
According to Fatty15, a company that sells C15:0 supplements, C15 is healthier than omega-3 fatty acids because it provides more health benefits, nourishes and supports more kinds of cells, and is non-toxic to virtually all cells.
Rapamycin Supplement: The New Longevity Drug?
Supplements To Increase Brown Fat
Reviewing The Most Popular Diets Of 2024
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10649853
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04947176
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022316622164370
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4232018
DNA testing kits have become increasingly popular for exploring genealogy and ancestry in today's world. They are a valuable tool for discovering one's ancestral roots. AncestryDNA is one of the leading providers of these DNA testing kits, offering insights into one's genetic makeup and family history. However, a question that often arises among users is, “Do Ancestry DNA kits expire?” This detailed article will delve into the expiration of AncestryDNA kits and shed light on the implications of using an expired kit.
Before we discuss the expiration of AncestryDNA kits, let's take a moment to understand what AncestryDNA is all about.
AncestryDNA is a convenient way to explore your family's history right from your home.
Combining advanced genetic science with a vast online family history resource helps you discover where your ancestors came from.
Using a simple saliva sample, AncestryDNA analyzes your entire genome at over 700,000 locations.
By comparing your markers to population data from 1,800 global regions, the company provides an ethnicity estimate and a list of DNA matches (potential relatives who share a connection with you). These results serve as a starting point for further family history research.
Unlike other DNA tests, AncestryDNA examines autosomal DNA rooted from both sides of your family, including siblings, cousins, and other relatives.
After submitting your DNA sample within 6 to 8 weeks, you'll receive an email with a link to access your results. AncestryDNA also offers many online family history resources to enhance your DNA findings.
Note:
The answer is a resounding no!
Ancestry kits stand the test of time, never expiring.
According to real-life experiences shared by users on Reddit and information from the manufacturer's documents, AncestryDNA kits have a remarkably long shelf life.
Users have reported successfully using kits that were several years old, with some even using kits that were six years old without any issues.
While there may be instances where an old kit doesn't work, Ancestry.com offers a solution by replacing it free of charge.
Ancestry.com does not have a strict expiration date for their DNA kits.
The mention of "one year" on some website documents is more of an advisory guideline than a hard limit.
They will send a replacement kit if the sample has degraded and cannot provide enough usable DNA.
When examining the contents of the DNA kits, it's clear that the main components, such as the sealed saliva collection tube, plastic collection bag, and cardboard mailing box, do not have expiration dates and are designed to withstand the test of time.
The blue stabilizing liquid in the kit, which is meant to be mixed with the saliva sample, is also designed to remain stable for a considerable period.
The stabilizing fluid, provided by DNA Genotek, the manufacturer of AncestryDNA kits, can keep the DNA in saliva stable for up to five years.
This stability is achieved through proprietary reagents that prevent bacterial contamination and DNA degradation.
Did You Know?
Your AncestryDNA Data includes 700,000 markers, which can be used to learn everything from disease risk and drug sensitivities to nutritional requirements and fitness parameters. Learn more.
Hear how people like you have benefited from uploading ancestry test data to Xcode Life:
Now that we understand the expiration of AncestryDNA kits, let's explore what happens if you use an expired kit.
When using an expired AncestryDNA kit, there is a possibility that the sample quality may be compromised.
Over time, the DNA within the saliva sample may degrade, leading to a lower quantity or quality of genetic material.
This degradation could impact the accuracy and reliability of the test results.
While some expired kits may still yield valid and useful information, there is an increased risk of indefinite or less precise results.
To maximize the chances of obtaining accurate results, following the instructions provided by AncestryDNA and submitting your sample within the recommended time frame is advisable.
However, if circumstances prevent you from doing so, it is worth contacting AncestryDNA's customer support for guidance on proceeding with an expired kit.
AncestryDNA recognizes that situations may arise where users cannot submit their samples before the expiration date.
In such cases, they do offer support and potential solutions.
AncestryDNA kits have specific circumstances in which a free replacement kit can be requested. These include cases if:
Replacement kits are typically delivered within 14 business days.
It's important to note that activated kits that cannot be processed at the lab will also receive a free replacement kit.
After the date of purchase, DNA kits can be used for at least a year and frequently for much longer.
If you have had it for over a year, activating your DNA kit and sending your sample is advised.
If the sample fails during laboratory testing, AncestryDNA offers a replacement kit.
10 health and wellness reports (including MTHFR) + 1 free caffeine report
No, unopened AncestryDNA kits do not expire. They can be used for at least 1 year from the date of purchase and often even longer.
So, even if it's been more than a year, you'll still be able to register the kit and ship the sample.
DNA stabilizers are often added to DNA samples to prevent bacterial contamination. If the sample is mixed with such stabilizers, they can stay good for up to 6 months.
According to the company's website, they share the genetic information only with research partners upon user consent and after de-identifying the sample.
AncestryDNA kits do not have an expiration date and can be used for a considerable time. Real-life experiences from users on Reddit and information from the manufacturer's documents confirm the longevity of these kits.
While there may be instances where an old kit doesn't work, Ancestry.com offers free replacements if the sample has degraded and needs more usable DNA.
The kit's main components, such as the sealed saliva collection tube, plastic collection bag, and cardboard mailing box, have no expiry dates.
The blue DNA stabilizing liquid in the kit remains intact for up to five years. When using an expired kit, sample quality can be compromised, which may affect the accuracy of the test results.
However, following the instructions and submitting the sample within the recommended time frame maximizes the chances of obtaining accurate results.
AncestryDNA offers free replacement kits under specific circumstances, such as delayed delivery, broken kits, late sample submission, or lost activation codes.
Overall, AncestryDNA strives to provide users with a reliable and convenient genetic testing experience, even if the kits have been unused for an extended period.
Here’s how you can get the most out of your DNA raw data in 3 simple steps:
AncestryDNA vs 23andMe: Which Is Better For Raw Data Analysis?
2024 Update: Free Tools For 23andMe, AncestryDNA, FTDNA Raw Data Analysis
How To Login To Your Ancestry DNA Account + Health Reports At 55% Off!
While most genetic ancestry testing companies reveal how much DNA you share with people in their database, not many tell where they potentially end up on your family tree. The 23andMe family tree feature, which can be found in the “Family & Friends menu” of your account, provides a visual representation of potential relationships you share with those who have taken a 23andMe test. In this article, we'll walk you through how to use the 23andMe Family Tree. We'll cover everything from creating your tree to editing and sharing it.
Did You Know? Your 23andMe DNA data includes 700,000 markers, which can be used to learn everything from disease risk and drug sensitivities to nutritional requirements and fitness parameters. Learn more.
A family tree is a visual representation or diagram that displays the familial relationships and connections between individuals across different generations within a family.
It is typically presented in a tree-like structure with branches and leaves, where each branch represents a family line or generation, and each leaf symbolizes an individual.
A family tree is like a map of your family's history. It can be used in several ways, such as:
The 23andMe family tree feature predicts your family tree based on shared DNA with people in 23andMe’s database.
It compares and calculates many different ways you could be related to each other.
This feature is only sometimes accurate since it uses predicted relationships instead of confirmed ones.
However, it can be a helpful starting point for building your family tree or connecting with genetic relatives.
The 23andMe Family Tree analyzes your DNA data, makes age-based predictions, and calculates potential genetic relationships.
Here's how it works:
Information about living family members is private and visible only to you, while your DNA relatives and connections can see details about deceased ancestors.
Hand-picked Article For You: How To Login To Your 23andMe Account
23andMe's Family Tree feature uses Bonsai software to analyze DNA and determine how people are related.
Bonsai uses a variety of factors to make its predictions, including the amount of DNA shared, the pattern of DNA segments, and the ages of the individuals involved.
In the past, Bonsai had difficulty accurately predicting the relationships between close family members, such as aunts, uncles, and half-siblings.
It was challenging to distinguish between these relatives as they share similar amounts of DNA.
To address this issue, 23andMe recently introduced a new technique that examines the DNA of full siblings.
Full siblings share about 25% of their DNA, and they have a unique pattern in their DNA that helps Bonsai tell if someone is their aunt or uncle.
This new technique has significantly improved the accuracy of Bonsai's predictions for close family relationships.
Overall, Bonsai is a powerful tool that can be used to determine how people are related accurately.
Here are the steps on how to edit your 23andMe family tree:
No, you cannot view other people's genetic trees on 23andMe.
23andMe allows you to find and connect with genetic relatives using the platform's DNA Relatives feature.
However, this interaction is based on genetic matches and shared DNA segments rather than viewing the detailed genetic trees of others.
You can participate in the DNA Relatives feature and choose the level of privacy you're comfortable with.
The amount of detail I got from all of the reports was incredible. I had done 23andme quite awhile ago, and it was great, but this was truly next level. I'm going through some health issues and trying to figure out what's wrong, and Xcode Life has given me new language to ask my care providers about. I HIGHLY recommend this to anyone in a similar situation or just someone wanting to know more about their genetics. The detail is absolutely incredible.
- Katherine Krieger
Currently, 23andMe does not provide an option to export or share your genetic tree with others directly.
It is designed to be private and is only visible to the person who created it.
This privacy measure is in place to safeguard the personal information of individuals and their families.
Shortly, 23andMe may permit users to export their genetic trees.
While waiting for this feature to become available, there can be some alternative methods you can use to share your genetic tree with others:
While this approach can be more time-consuming, it offers a dynamic and visual presentation of your family connections.
Consider privacy and consent when sharing your genetic tree, especially if it will be public or widely distributed.
23andMe's Family Tree estimates are considered very accurate. However, when additional markers are included in ancestry analysis, the estimates may change.
23andMe generates the family tree for you and displays your relatives who have opted-in to the DNA relatives feature.
Half-siblings can be found in the "DNA relatives" or "Your connections" sections in your 23andMe dashboard.
While full siblings are shaded in only purple or purple + pink, half-siblings are shades only in pink.
The 23andMe Family Tree is a valuable feature that allows you to visually represent your family history based on your shared DNA with other 23andMe users.
To use the 23andMe Family Tree, you first need to opt-in to DNA Relatives. This action enables 23andMe to compare your DNA with that of other users and generate a comprehensive list of potential relatives for you.
Once you've compiled this list of potential relatives, you can construct your family tree. This can be achieved by manually adding individuals to your tree or accepting the predictions that 23andMe offers based on your shared DNA data.
Moreover, you can edit your family tree whenever you desire. This includes adding or removing people, changing their relationships, and adding additional information about them.
While the 23andMe Family Tree is a powerful tool for exploring your family history, it may only sometimes be accurate.
23andMe's new technique that examines the DNA of full siblings has greatly improved prediction accuracy for close family relationships. This makes the 23andMe Family Tree an increasingly valuable resource for those who want to learn more about their genetic heritage.
Did you know the ancient Greeks considered having one eyebrow beautiful? Other cultures believe thicker eyebrows are attractive. Not everyone is born with the same eyebrows. Whether you pluck your eyebrows to make them thin or allow them to grow thicker, the thickness of your eyebrows lies in your genes. In this blog, we will learn more about why some people have thicker eyebrows and how genes influence them.
Having thick eyebrows has a lot to do with your genes, and that's why this trait often runs in families.
While no single region or ethnicity is responsible for the origin of thicker eyebrows, the trait has had an interesting journey through time.
Ancient Egyptians used black paint to thicken their eyebrows to match those of their god, Horus.
Post WWII, women began to grow their eyebrows out, a trend pioneered by the most prominent celebrities of the time, including Marilyn Monroe.
Today, thicker eyebrows are commonplace.
Thick eyebrows are more than just a good grooming routine.
While there is limited knowledge about why some people have thicker eyebrows, it is certainly genetic to an extent.
Thick eyebrows are a dominant trait compared to thin eyebrows.
If one of your parents has thicker eyebrows, you'll likely have them, too.
However, more research is required in this regard.
Eyebrow thickness is a dominant, non-X-linked trait.
You can inherit the trait from either parent if they carry it.
Current evidence suggests that several genes can influence eyebrow characteristics.
The exact mode of inheritance could differ for each gene.
Researchers have identified three previously unreported genes linked to eyebrow thickness in people of European descent– SOX11, MRPS22, and SLC39A12.
Similarly, two genes– SOX2 and FOXD1 have links to eyebrow thickness in non-Europeans.
Two other eyebrow-related genes, EDAR and FOXL2, usually express themselves in non-Europeans but do not affect Europeans.
Studies have shown that a specific region on the EDAR gene can help predict the thickness of eyebrows.
Mutations (abnormal changes) in this EDAR gene can also lead to dysfunction of other hair characteristics.
Thick eyebrows are also a common symptom of several genetic conditions.
A few of these conditions include:
If you think the appearance of your eyebrows has more to do with grooming, think again!
The way your eyebrows look has more to do with your genes.
Four genes have been identified that affect eyebrow hair texture, one gene that determines the shape, and five genes that influence eyebrow color.
While your genes determine the shape of your eyebrows, environmental factors can also influence how your eyebrows look.
For example, years of waxing and tweezing eyebrows can affect their shape.
Any damage or injuries to the skin near the eyebrows can also affect hair growth and shape.
A unibrow or synophrys is a normal variation of the human eyebrow.
In many ancient cultures, having a unibrow was considered an attractive feature in men and women.
Today, however, the Western civilization finds a unibrow unattractive.
Like other attributes of eyebrows, having a unibrow is also influenced by genes.
The inheritance of a unibrow is polygenic. This means several genes may influence the appearance of a unibrow.
A unibrow has also been associated with developmental defects or syndromes, such as:
Let's learn more about eyebrow thickness and genetics in these FAQs:
If you have thin or narrow eyebrows, there are many remedies that you can use to increase the thickness of your eyebrows:
Men usually have thicker eyebrows than women.
Therefore, thicker eyebrows have always been perceived as a masculine trait.
However, many women have thicker, bushy eyebrows.
Men tend to have thicker brow ridges than women.
This can be attributed to several factors:
Double Eyelashes (Distichiasis)- Why Does It Happen?
Is Curly Hair Genetic? How DNA Affects Your Hair Type
Is Dandruff Genetic? Understanding The Roots
If you feel drawn to new-age diets' impressive health benefits, you're in the right place. Paleo and keto diets have skyrocketed in popularity recently, thanks to social media. Their common goal? To improve your health. Yet, the internet can't decide which is better for weight loss. Picking the right diet can be tricky. To make the right choice, it's essential to understand the differences between the paleo and keto diets.
The Paleo diet is a style of eating that mimics the habits of Paleolithic hunter-gatherers.
Also called the "caveman diet," it promotes eating foods that were available to early humans for optimal health.
It rejects modern food processing techniques and additives, claiming they damage your health.
Foods permitted under the Paleo diet are:
Foods excluded from the Paleo diet include dairy, grains, legumes, and processed sugars.
Beyond dietary changes, the Paleo philosophy promotes awareness of total body wellness, lifestyle practices, and the environmental impact of our food choices.
Ketosis is a metabolic process whereby your body uses fats to produce energy.
Accordingly, the keto diet aims to induce ketosis by skewing your dietary intake to include more fats.
This eating plan focuses on maximum fat and minimal carb intake.
Numerically, the keto diet includes:
Some research supports the idea that higher dietary fat levels should ideally lead to fat breakdown and, eventually, weight loss.
| Paleo Diet | Keto Diet | |
| Concept | Excludes processed foods and promotes whole foods. | Limits carbohydrates and proteins, increases fat consumption for ketosis. |
| Dairy | Excluded | Excludes milk and yogurt (high in carbs) Retains cheese (low in carbs, provides potassium) |
| Beans and legumes | Excluded | Excluded |
| Vegetables | Included, except corn and potatoes | Included, except high-carb potatoes, beets, and sweet potatoes |
| Fruits | Included | Includes low-carb fruits like berries, melons, and oranges |
| Oils | Includes coconut oil and olive oil | Includes most oils |
| Bread and grains | Excluded | Excluded |
| Nuts | Included | Includes low-carb nuts (almonds, walnuts, peanuts) |
| Seeds | Included | Included |
| Meat | Encourages free-range, grass-fed, and wild-caught meat | Included |
Despite their ideologies, the Paleo and Keto diets have a few similarities. Both diets:
If your primary goal is to lose weight, the keto diet could be more effective since it strongly limits carbohydrate intake.
Amongst all macronutrients, carbohydrates have the most significant impact on blood glucose levels.
Increased blood glucose causes increased insulin secretion, which promotes fat storage.
Thus, a keto diet with lesser carbohydrate intake could help keep weight in check.
The Paleo diet promotes weight management through a more balanced approach that includes carbohydrates.
On the other hand, the keto diet promotes cutting out carbohydrates entirely from your diet to induce ketosis in the body.
Since the Paleo diet encourages a more balanced approach, it might be slightly healthier than the keto diet.
That said, nutrition is personal, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
The Paleo diet might be more effective for some, whereas the keto diet might be more effective for others.
Always consult a doctor or a registered dietician before starting a new diet.
Drawbacks of the Paleo diet:
Drawbacks of the keto diet:
It might be possible to combine both these diets for maximum benefits. For instance, you can cut out all processed foods from your diet as the Paleo diet recommends and go dairy-free as keto prescribes.
The Paleo diet might be slightly safer than the keto diet. The Paleo diet offers more food choices, whereas the keto diet is more restrictive, limits your food choices, and might be more challenging to follow.
What Is The O Blood Type Diet?
Reviewing The Most Popular Diets Of 2024
The Ultimate Guide To Anti-inflammatory Diet + Food List PDF
https://www.livescience.com/paleo-diet-vs-keto-the-difference-explained
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6371871
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8004139
Lima beans are a type of green or cream-colored legume with a flat, rounded shape. Named for the capital of Peru, they have a mild flavor and smooth texture. They have been consumed in Central and South American regions for centuries due to their high energy and nutrient content. Like other legumes, they grow in pods and can be consumed fresh, dried, frozen, or canned. Today, they're regarded as a superfood. Here's everything you need to know about Lima beans and whether they're the right fit for your diet.
The smooth texture of lima beans often earns them the tag of 'butter beans.'
Sometimes, vendors sell the beans at different stages of growth with a more greenish color, leading to some confusion.
However, Lima beans and butter beans are one and the same.
They’re referred to as butter beans in the United Kingdom and southern USA.
According to the US FDA, 100 g of Lima beans contain the following nutrients:
| Nutrient | Quantity |
| Protein | 7.8 g |
| Total dietary fibre | 7 g |
| Total sugars | 2.9 g |
| Minerals: | |
| Calcium | 17 mg |
| Magnesium | 43 mg |
| Phosphorus | 111 mg |
| Potassium | 508 mg |
| Sodium | 2 mg |
| Zinc | 0.95 mg |
| Vitamins: | |
| Thiamin | 0.161 mg |
| Niacin | 0.421 mg |
| Choline | 32.5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.161 mg |
Like most beans, they are rich in fiber and other nutrients, such as proteins, amino acids, minerals, and vitamins.
These nutrients activate vital enzymes, maintain heart and brain health, and ensure overall health and wellness.
However, in addition to their nutrient composition, Lima beans are incredibly versatile and can be consumed in several ways, earning them the superfood tag.
The health benefits of Lima beans are manifold.
Some of these benefits include:
Lima beans have a low glycemic index (a measure of blood sugar increase due to food consumption).
Lima beans are also fiber-rich, further helping control blood sugar levels.
According to a 2020 study, such legumes may help reduce fasting blood glucose levels and help control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.
Lima beans are very heart-healthy foods owing to their high fiber content.
Their dietary fiber content also helps reduce cholesterol and inflammation.
They're rich in potassium which helps regulate blood pressure effectively.
Thanks to their protein and fiber levels, lima beans can promote weight loss.
These nutrients keep you full for longer, reducing the urge to snack and overeat- two of the biggest contributors to weight gain.
Including lima beans in your diet, therefore, may help you shed some extra pounds!
Some studies have shown that lima beans demonstrate anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.
They also effectively inhibit the growth of both Gram-positive and negative bacteria.
These properties could make Lima beans a promising ingredient in the nutraceutical industry.
It's rare, but you may also be allergic to lima beans if you have a legume or bean allergy.
Other potential side effects of lima beans are:
There's a simple workaround—soaking the beans before consuming them can significantly reduce the amount of antinutrients and linamarin in them, preventing any adverse health effects.
Other side effects that may occur due to their high fiber content or excessive consumption are:
Lima beans can be used dry, cooked, frozen and canned.
If you buy them dried, always cook them before consumption.
It helps to soak them in water overnight before cooking.
You can incorporate these beans into the following:
Despite their health benefits, they should be consumed in moderation.
Eating them in excess can result in bloating, gas, and stomach discomfort.
100 g of Lima beans has around 7.8 g of protein, slightly higher than most beans.
A complete protein contains every essential amino acid, and these beans do not fulfill this requirement.
Lima beans contain 7 g of dietary fiber, which reduces total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LD) or bad cholesterol.
The dietary fiber forms a gel in the intestines, blocking fat and cholesterol absorption.
Lima beans are an excellent heart-healthy food as they are rich in fiber, potassium, magnesium and low in sodium.
They help reduce weight, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, all promoting heart health.
Lima beans are good for your kidneys because they are high in fiber, iron, magnesium, and protein and low in fat.
They provide phosphorus, an essential mineral for people with kidney disease.
Their potassium content helps replenish any potassium lost during dialysis.
Spirulina For Men: Top 10 Health Benefits
Reviewing The Most Popular Diets Of 2024
The Ultimate Guide To Anti-inflammatory Diet + Food List PDF
