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Why Beans Are Good for Your Health
Lots of Fiber
Beans are a great source of fiber. That’s important because most Americans don’t get the recommended 25 to 38 grams each day. Fiber helps keep you regular and seems to protect against heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and digestive illness. Navy beans have about 19 grams of fiber per cup. Add some smoked turkey, kale, onions, and carrots, for a hearty soup.
Plenty of Protein
Beans are a great way to get low-fat, low-calorie protein that already has the fiber and carbs mixed in. A single cup has around 15 grams. That’s two to three times more than rice or wheat. It’s especially good for a protein building block called lysine that you might not get enough of if you’re a vegetarian. Cook a savory, protein-rich vegetarian stew with lentils, onions, carrots, tomatoes, and chili powder.
Keeps You at a Healthy Weight
If you make it a habit to eat beans, you’re more likely to have a lower body weight, slimmer waist, and a lower body mass index (BMI). Studies show that obese men on a protein-rich diet lost more weight with beans as their top protein source. Try a nourishing, low-fat, spicy kidney bean chili as a main course instead of meat.
Boosts Your Heart Health
You’ll do your ticker a favor if you make beans a regular part of your diet. Studies show it can lower your LDL “bad” cholesterol. For a really heart-healthy food option, try a simple salad made from beets, beans, and greens.
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