Here are some tips on how to enhance their digestibility and decrease intestinal flatulence. Try using fermented soybean products such as tofu or tempeh, which eliminate the enzymes that make the soybean difficult to digest. Soak beans for several hours before cooking, and discard the soaking water. Cook a 2-inch strip of kombu sea vegetable with each cup of dry beans. Kombu tenderizes beans, makes them more digestible, and adds flavor and minerals.
More salt makes beans more digestible.
Eat moderate portions of beans, or combine them with vegetables to create lighter dishes. If you still find beans hard to digest, try replenishing your intestinal flora. The Co-op stocks several brands of acidophilus cultures, and yogurt, which contain bacteria beneficial to one's digestion. According to Oriental medicine, it has excellent healing potential for the kidneys. It can be used in everything from soups to pastries.