New legume sources as therapeutic agents

Zecharia Madar*, Aliza H. Stark

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

107 Scopus citations

Abstract

This review evaluates the potential health benefits of three legume sources that rarely appear in Western diets and are often overlooked as functional foods. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum) and isolated fenugreek fractions have been shown to act as hypoglycaemic and hypocholesterolaemic agents in both animal and human studies. The unique dietary fibre composition and high saponin content in fenugreek appears to be responsible for these therapeutic properties. Faba beans (Vicia faba) have lipid-lowering effects and may also be a good source of antioxidants and chemopreventive factors. Mung beans (Phaseolus aureus, Vigna radiatus) are thought to be beneficial as an antidiabetic, low glycaemic index food, rich in anti-oxidants. Evidence suggests that these three novel sources of legumes may provide health benefits when included in the daily diet.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)S287-S292
JournalBritish Journal of Nutrition
Volume88
Issue numberSUPPL. 3
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Dec 2002

Keywords

  • Faba beans
  • Fenugreek
  • Legumes
  • Mung beans

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