Summary
This narrative review synthesises evidence on the nutraceutical potential of common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), emphasising their nutrient density and bioactive phytochemical content. The authors examine mechanisms by which bean consumption may prevent or mitigate cardiovascular disease and cancer, positioning common beans as a strategic functional food for chronic disease prevention in the context of global food security and environmental sustainability.
Regional applicability
The findings are broadly applicable to United Kingdom dietary guidance and public health strategy, as common beans are affordable, shelf-stable legumes widely available in UK food systems. The evidence supports integration of beans into UK-recommended plant-forward dietary patterns for non-communicable disease prevention, though the review does not address UK-specific epidemiological data or population-level implementation barriers.
Key measures
Qualitative synthesis of bioactive phytochemical composition and epidemiological/mechanistic evidence; publication trends in PubMed and Scopus databases
Outcomes reported
Synthesis of evidence on bioactive compounds in common beans and their role in preventing or mitigating cardiovascular disease and cancer through modulation of metabolic and cell-signalling pathways.
Topic tags
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