Last Updated on April 15, 2023 by Lauren Beck
Beans are a healthy and delicious addition to any meal, but they’re notorious for causing gas and bloating.
One popular tip for reducing gas from beans is to add a potato while cooking. But does it really work? Let’s find out and explore other ways to reduce gas from beans.
Does Putting a Potato in Beans Reduce Gas?
Yes, adding a potato to beans while cooking can help reduce gas. The potato absorbs some of the complex sugars in the beans that cause gas, and also releases starch into the cooking liquid which helps to thicken the sauce and reduce the amount of indigestible fiber that can cause gas.
How Does Potatoes Reduce Gas in Beans?
Adding a potato to beans while cooking is thought to reduce gas because the potato absorbs some of the complex sugars in the beans that cause gas.
The potato also releases starch into the cooking liquid, which helps to thicken the sauce and reduce the amount of indigestible fiber that can cause gas.
How to Reduce Gas From Beans?
Here are some tips on how to reduce gas from beans:
- Soak the beans overnight before cooking to help break down the complex sugars and make them easier to digest.
- Rinse the beans thoroughly before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.
- Cook the beans thoroughly until they’re soft and fully cooked.
- Add a teaspoon of cumin, fennel seeds, or ginger to the cooking liquid to help break down the complex sugars.
- Add a potato to the pot while cooking to absorb some of the complex sugars.
- Serve the beans with digestive aids such as fresh ginger, lemon, or apple cider vinegar.
What Makes Beans So Gas-Inducing?
Beans contain complex sugars called oligosaccharides that are difficult for our bodies to break down [1]. When these sugars reach the large intestine, bacteria begin to ferment them, producing gas and causing bloating and discomfort.
Ways To Reduce Gas From Beans
Here are some additional ways to reduce gas from beans:
- Use digestive aids such as ginger, cumin, or apple cider vinegar in your cooking.
- Start with smaller servings and gradually increase your intake to allow your body to adjust.
- Drink plenty of water to help flush out the digestive system.
- Try over-the-counter remedies such as Beano or Gas-X.
- Consider eating fermented or sprouted beans, which are easier to digest.
Tips for Prepping and Eating Beans to Reduce Gas
Here are some tips for prepping and eating beans to reduce gas:
- Soak beans overnight in plenty of water to help break down the complex sugars.
- Rinse the beans thoroughly before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.
- Cook beans until soft and fully cooked to make them easier to digest.
- Serve beans with digestive aids such as ginger, cumin, or apple cider vinegar.
- Start with smaller servings and gradually increase your intake to allow your body to adjust.
- Chew beans thoroughly to aid digestion.
- Drink plenty of water to help flush out the digestive system.
How Much Baking Soda Do You Add To Beans To Prevent Gas?
Adding baking soda to beans can help to reduce gas, but it’s important not to add too much. Start with a quarter teaspoon of baking soda per cup of dry beans and gradually increase if necessary.
Be careful not to add too much, as it can affect the flavor of the beans and cause them to become mushy.
Which Beans Cause Less Gas?
Some types of beans are known to cause less gas than others. Here are a few examples:
- Lentils
- Black-eyed peas
- Adzuki beans
- Chickpeas
- Mung beans
Why Do Some People Not Get Gas From Beans?
Some people may not experience gas from beans because they have a higher level of the enzyme alpha-galactosidase, which helps to break down complex sugars in beans.
Additionally, some people may have a diet that’s higher in fiber and, therefore, better able to digest beans.
Do All Beans Cause Gas?
While most types of beans do cause gas, some types are known to cause less gas than others. It’s also important to note that the gas level varies from person to person, and some people may not experience gas from beans at all.
Best Way To Cook Beans
The best way to cook beans is to soak them overnight in plenty of water, then rinse them thoroughly and cook them in fresh water until they’re soft and fully cooked.
Add a potato or digestive aid such as cumin, fennel seeds, or ginger to the cooking liquid to help reduce gas.
Why Are My Beans Still Hard After Cooking?
If your beans are still hard after cooking, it could be because they were not soaked properly or for long enough or because the cooking temperature was too low. Make sure to soak beans overnight in plenty of water and cook them on high heat until they’re fully cooked.
Do You Have to Cook Soaked Beans Right Away?
No, you don’t have to cook soaked beans right away. Once beans have been soaked, you can store them in the fridge for up to five days before cooking. Just make sure to change the water daily to prevent any bacteria growth.
Conclusion
Adding a potato to beans while cooking can help to reduce gas, but there are many other ways to reduce gas from beans. Soak beans overnight, rinse them thoroughly, cook them thoroughly, and serve them with digestive aids such as ginger, cumin, or apple cider vinegar. Experiment with different types of beans and cooking methods to find what works best for you. With a little preparation and knowledge, you can enjoy the health benefits of beans without the discomfort of gas and bloating.
Reference:
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/why-do-beans-cause-gas-1942947
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