Why must adzuki beans be thoroughly cooked before consumption during pregnancy?
Answer
To eliminate lectins and phytic acid
Proper preparation is crucial for the safety and digestibility of adzuki beans, like all dried legumes. They must be thoroughly cooked to neutralize specific compounds present in their raw state. These compounds are lectins, which can cause digestive upset, and phytic acid, which has the potential to interfere with the absorption of other beneficial nutrients the body is trying to obtain from the diet. While cooking does not primarily serve to create anko or activate antioxidants, its fundamental role is detoxification and improving nutrient uptake.

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