All ABOUT BEANS

Beans and Health

Beans are a one of the world’s most popular superfoods for a reason. They’re packed with a powerful combination of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals that help people stay healthy and fight disease. Here are some highlights of just how great beans are for your body:

• One cup of cooked beans has 14 grams of protein, which equals two vegetable servings and one meat serving. But, unlike many other protein sources, beans are low in sodium and fat, with no trans or saturated fat, and are cholesterol-free.
• One serving of beans provides 20% of your daily fiber needs. Fiber helps you feel full after a meal, maintain blood sugar levels and regularity.
• Beans are a good source of vitamins, minerals, folate (best among all vegetables), calcium, potassium, iron and magnesium.
• A diet including beans may help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancers.
• According to the USDA’s Dietary Guidelines (myplate.gov), people should be eating about three cups of beans per week.