Healthy Beans and Legumes

In the interest of full disclosure, I rarely eat beans and legumes. I personally don’t like their taste or texture. However, I recognize I am in the minority and that their health benefits are incredible.

These beans considered the healthiest are:

Black Beans, Kidney Beans, Lima Beans, Pinto Beans, and Navy Beans.

Good: Beans are high in protein and have a lot of fiber. They are excellent at regulating your blood sugar. They can help in the fight against heart disease, certain cancers, and diabetes. The high fiber helps slow digestion making you feel full longer. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as, vitamin B6, calcium, and potassium.

Not so good: Some people have bad reactions to them causing problems with the immune system and digestion. It is recommended you cook beans because some raw beans contain harmful toxins that need to be removed during cooking.

Preparation Ideas: People most enjoy them boiled or buy them precooked.

Garbanzo Beans (chickpeas)

Good: They are high in fiber and a good source of protein. They can help reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, and can lower cholesterol.

Not so good: Garbanzo beans contain a substance called purines. Purines can be broken down into uric acid and excessive uric acid can cause problems such as gout or kidney stones.

Preparation Ideas: You can boil them or purchase them precooked. They can be a tasty addition to most salads.