Health Benefits of Cluster Beans

The health benefits of cluster beans are in the protein and fiber they provide. Cluster Beans (known as gawar or guar phalli, goru chikkudu or kothavara) are a type of green beans grown in India, especially in Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. They are a flatter, smaller cousin of the regular green (French or string) beans.

In India, cluster beans are commonly used in vegetable curries and lentil dals. Unlike the regular green beans, cluster beans have a slightly bitter taste. To tone down the bitterness, freshly grated coconut, or tamarind, jaggery, and tomatoes are used.

Cluster bean seeds are used in commercial food products. The seeds are dried and ground into flour. This flour, known as guar gum, is used as a thickener in many food products such as ice cream (instead of gelatin) and cheese, sauces, and dressings.

As a rich source of protein and fiber, cluster beans offer several health benefits in both vegetable and powder form (guar gum).

Guar gum is used in nutritional supplements such as glyconutrients. Guar gum powder is a water-soluble fiber, and is used as a laxative. The fiber helps keep the digestive tract healthy and regular. Studies have shown that it’s effective in treating diseases like Irritable Bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and colitis, and also in reducing cholesterol.

Guar gum has also been shown to be useful in weight loss and diabetes treatment.The fiber in guar slows down the digestion of a meal which lowers the glycemic index of the meal. The slow digestion means you feel full for a longer period of time, and eat less, thereby helping you lose weight. A diet rich in vegetables coupled with physical exercise, whether yoga or something fun like masala bhangra workout, is great for your health.

Category: Health