Refried beans are prepared with either black or pinto beans. The raw beans are soaked overnight and then stewed. The remaining liquid is drained off and the beans are converted into a paste using a bean masher or the back of a spoon or fork. The bean paste is then fried with lard or vegetable oil. Onions, garlic, and spices may be used to enhance the taste. The refried beans on a Candida diet are served as a side dish accompanying a larger meal, or rolled in a tortilla, enchiladas, burritos, tostadas, chimichangas, or nachos. They are also very popular as a dip for corn tortilla chips.
Refried
Beans have a high carbohydrate count (39 g per cup) but
much lower digestible carbohydrate content. They contain
several vitamins and minerals. The beans are a good
source of dietary fiber (13 g per cup). Due to their
high soluble fiber content (fiber like gums, beta
glucans, pectin), the beans are digested very slowly,
and low on the glycemic index. They help maintain stable
blood glucose levels. A single cup of refried beans on
Candida diet provides nearly 60% of the recommended
intake for fiber. They are also a good source of
proteins, with an amino acid score of 104, as well as
vitamin C. The refried beans are also an excellent and
cheap source of energy and the B vitamins thiamin,
riboflavin and niacin, which are necessary for growth
and tissue building. They are high in
iron, calcium, phosphorous and potassium, essential
minerals for good health.
Refried
beans, however, have a tendency to produce gas in some
people. In a person with Candidiasis, this could cause
bloating, belching and a lot of discomfort. When on a
Candida diet, if the refried beans do not agree with
you, it is best to avoid them and then try again after a
month or so. Even if you do not have any problems with
refried beans, it is best to restrict yourself to a
small bowl. Do not use cheese for topping/garnishing.
Tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and cabbage may be used and
is ideal for a Candida diet. Good fats like olive oil,
lard, sesame oil may be used to suit. Addition of
ginger will aid in digestion and garlic may be added too
for its antifungal properties. It is best to avoid
canned refried beans as they may contain added sugar or
preservatives.
Though there are some general guidelines for a Candida diet, foods may be added or deleted as per individual tolerance with the exception of sugars, fermented products, alcohol, and bad fats that should be totally avoided. These dietary changes along with other lifestyle changes, stress management, probiotics, exercises, maintaining mental health will all help in the holistic healing of Candida and not just the symptoms.
