Strictly Nutritious: Edamame: The Mod Pod

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They say the first step towards recovery is admitting you have a problem. Well... ummm.... I have a problem. It's more than a problem, really. It's an obsession. I love soybeans! There, I said it! I LOVE SOYBEANS. This girl right here loves 'em.

...But it's no wonder why!

Edamame are green soybeans that are picked before they're completely ripe then boiled or steamed in the pod. They originated in China and have a sweet, nutty flavor. They're great in dishes or just by themselves as a snack! The best part of edamame is their high nutritional value.

Edamame is...

An anti-inflammatory, making it great for people with arthritis or asthma (as it decreases inflammation in breathing passages).
One of the best non-fish sources of omega-3's, which help reduce your risk of coronary heart disease.
A great source of antioxidants, which fight cancer-causing free radicals.
A great source of natural estrogen, which is especially good for women undergoing menopause.
A fantastic alternative for non-meat eaters to obtain complete protein, which provides energy, helps with tissue development and wards off disease.
A great snack for weight loss because it's packed with fiber, making you feel full longer.
An easy and convenient food to keep in the house - you can buy it frozen, already cooked, in the pod or shelled.

Check out these stats for a half cup of shelled edamame...

120 calories
2.5 grams of fat (the good kind! monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that help you absorb minerals, process fiber and lower your cholesterol)
11 grams of complete protein (containing ALL the amino acids)
9 grams fiber
10% of your daily value of vitamin C
10% of your daily value of iron (that's about as much as a 4 oz. chicken breast!)
8% of your daily value of vitamin A
4% of your daily value of calcium