Beneficial physiologic action of beans.

The author reviews the literature indicating the beneficial effects of a diet high in fiber and the detrimental effects of highly refined carbohydrate intake, which characterizes the present Western diet. Reduction in serum cholesterol and stimulation of peristalsis can be demonstrated by incorporating beans in the diet. In studies with male volunteers, serum cholesterol has been lowered, despite a high-fat or sucrose diet, and an investigation with rats is cited in which substitution of beans for wheat starch decreased intestinal transit time. The author points out the difference between "crude fiber," figures for which are available in food composition tables, and "indigestible food residue"; he urges that the latter phrase replace the terms "fiber" and "rough-age."