Fava beans, like edamame, are green-colored legumes that come in their own “pod.” You can purchase them canned, fresh or dried. A nutrient-rich legume, fava beans are high in protein and dietary fiber, very low in fat, free of saturated fat and an excellent food source of many nutrients essential for human health, such as vitamins and minerals. Fava beans, when eaten as part of an overall healthy diet, may offer cardiovascular benefits and aid in weight management.
According to Fruits and Veggies More Matters, fava beans are a nutrient-dense food, meaning they provide lots of nutrients essential for proper body function without being rich in calories. These beans are a good food source of vitamin B1 or thiamin, iron, copper, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium, meeting 10 to 19 percent of the recommended daily value, or DV, for each per 1/4 cup. Vitamin B1 is important for a nervous system function and energy metabolism; iron is an essential component of a protein responsible for oxygen transport in the bloodstream; and copper, along with iron, helps to form red blood cells. Copper also plays a role in keeping your blood vessels, immune system and bones healthy. Phosphorus and magnesium are important for maintaining strong bones, and magnesium, along with potassium, helps regulate blood pressure.
Fava beans are also an excellent food source of folate, and manganese, supplying over 20 percent of the DV for these nutrients per 1/4 cup. Folate supports immune system function, cardiovascular health and helps form red blood cells. Manganese is needed for the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and cholesterol.