At Kiwilimón, we know that nutrition is the foundation for good health, but applying it in daily life can be very complicated. In Mexico, we can start the day with tlacoyos made from blue corn, eggs with beans and salsa, nopal salad, and more. However, there are also plenty of snacks, fried foods, sugary drinks, sweet bread, and soda that stand between us and a healthy life. 

We must begin by facing our reality: many of us have a good bread with coffee for breakfast or dinner, as there are many bakeries that offer amazing options. Although it is almost impossible to resist, consuming these types of sugar-rich foods, but without fiber, can disrupt our blood sugar levels, which can trigger feelings of anxiety and the need for empty calories and all kinds of desserts, junk food, and snacks—a series of foods that do not provide vitamins or minerals. 

When the body experiences hypoglycemia, very low sugar levels, the first thing we want is to eat the sweetest thing we find in our path; however, this is when we must resist temptation and opt for much healthier, more nutritious, and filling options. 

So, if you wake up very hungry, the most recommended thing is to prepare a breakfast that includes fiber and protein, which will help keep your blood glucose levels stable, but also reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. What’s the solution? Very simple, eat more beans!  

You can also read: Benefits of eating beans

In a statement, the U.S. Dry Bean Council mentions that a good fiber- and protein-rich alternative to include in breakfast is beans. According to data from the Mexican Diabetes Federation, this food is rich in slow-absorbing carbohydrates, which makes it a healthy option for people living with diabetes. Additionally, by nature, they are free of cholesterol and saturated fat. 

"Beans, besides being versatile and rich in protein, have a low glycemic index, as they contain complex carbohydrates that are digested slowly. This makes them a good option for those who need to keep their blood sugar levels in check," said Fernanda Alvarado, a master in community nutrition and external advisor to the U.S. Dry Bean Council. 

The expert also added that the nutritional benefits of beans are for everyone, but especially for those who suffer from anxiety from eating anything they come across. 

"It is a nutrient-rich food; beans contain proteins, complex carbohydrates, fiber, antioxidants, and important vitamins and minerals, such as folic acid, manganese, potassium, iron, phosphorus, copper, and magnesium. The lean protein in beans helps maintain and promote muscles, while the complex carbohydrates in beans provide a sustained source of energy," Alvarado mentioned. 

So if you eat because of anxiety, don’t hesitate to enjoy a good plate of beans at mealtime, pair your roasted chicken with a bean pico de gallo, or prepare some whole wheat molletes with refried beans for breakfast or dinner. Remember that small changes make all the difference! 

You can also read: This is Profeco's reason why you should not store beans in yogurt containers