Carolyn Bell, RDN – Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
Beans are high in protein and are an inexpensive way to obtain rich nutrients like folate, magnesium and protective phytochemicals. Beans are high in soluble and insoluble fiber, which slows the digestion of carbohydrates found in beans. This means the carbohydrates in beans will be more slowly digested, which has a beneficial effect on blood sugar. Look for these beans when shopping for beans high in protein and low in fat: Garbanzo/Chickpeas, Kidney, Black, Pinto, Navy, and Lima beans are all good sources of protein and fiber.