Description
Health Benefits
Beans are packed with protein, fiber, and other nutrients, making them a superfood.
Lima beans are an especially good source of iron. One cup of lima beans contains roughly one quarter of your daily recommended iron. Other health benefits of lima beans include:
Diabetes Control
Legumes such as lima beans are a low-glycemic index food, making them a great choice for people with diabetes. Beans are also rich in soluble fiber, which helps your body absorb carbohydrates more slowly and regulates your blood sugar levels. Foods that are high in fiber can also aid in weight control by making you feel full longer.
Digestive Health
In addition to containing soluble fiber that your body can digest, beans also contain insoluble fiber, sometimes known as roughage. While your body cannot digest this type of fiber, it helps aid digestion by helping stool pass through your gut more quickly. Maintaining a diet that’s high in fiber can help you avoid constipation, which can lead to hemorrhoids.
Heart Health
Lima beans have a creamy texture but are low in fat. Since they are a plant food, they don’t contain cholesterol. And because they aren’t processed, they don’t contain trans fats. Most of the fat found in lima beans is healthier, polyunsaturated fat. When you regularly choose foods with polyunsaturated fats over saturated fats, you can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Prevent Anemia
Anemia is a blood disorder that can be caused by not getting enough iron in your diet. People with anemia lack the healthy red blood cells needed to carry oxygen throughout their body, which can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, and even organ damage. Women who are menstruating have an increased risk of developing anemia. The iron found in lima beans can help prevent iron-deficiency anemia.
