If you're looking for a nutritious and delicious addition to your diet, look no further than the medium green lima bean. With just 110 calories in a 1/2 cup (128 g) serving, this legume is a great way to fuel your body without overloading on calories.
What's more, lima beans are rich in fiber, providing 8 grams per serving. This means they can help keep you feeling full and satisfied, while also promoting healthy digestion. Additionally, lima beans are a good source of protein, with 7 grams per serving.
In this article, we'll explore the many health benefits of lima beans and provide some tasty recipe ideas for incorporating them into your meals.
Calorie Content
As mentioned earlier, a 1/2 cup (128 g) serving of medium green lima beans contains just 110 calories. This makes them a great option for anyone looking to eat healthily without sacrificing flavor. In addition to being low in calories, lima beans are nutrient-dense. They contain a variety of vitamins and minerals that are essential to good health.
Rich in Fiber
Lima beans are an excellent source of fiber, which is important for maintaining healthy digestion and preventing constipation. A 1/2 cup (128 g) serving of lima beans contains 8 grams of fiber, or roughly 32% of the daily recommended intake. Fiber also helps keep you feeling full and satisfied, which can aid in weight loss and weight management.
Good Source of Protein
Protein is an essential nutrient that the body needs to build and repair tissues. A 1/2 cup (128 g) serving of lima beans contains 7 grams of protein, which is roughly equivalent to the amount of protein found in one egg. Getting enough protein in your diet is especially important for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone following a plant-based diet.
Low in Fat
Lima beans are low in fat, with just 1 gram of fat per serving. They are also cholesterol-free, making them a heart-healthy food choice. If you're watching your fat intake, lima beans are a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals without going overboard on fat.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
Lima beans are a good source of a variety of vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, potassium, and magnesium. Folate is important for fetal development in pregnant women, while iron is essential for producing red blood cells. Additionally, potassium and magnesium are important for heart and muscle health, and can help regulate blood pressure.
Aids in Digestion
The high fiber content of lima beans makes them an excellent food for promoting healthy digestion. Fiber helps keep things moving smoothly through the digestive system, preventing constipation and bloating. Additionally, lima beans contain resistant starch, which is a type of carbohydrate that resists digestion in the small intestine. This means it passes through to the large intestine, where it feeds the beneficial bacteria that live there.
Regulates Blood Sugar
Lima beans are a low glycemic index food, which means they are digested slowly and cause a gradual rise in blood sugar levels. This makes them an excellent food choice for people with diabetes or anyone looking to regulate their blood sugar.
Helps Maintain Strong Bones
Lima beans are a good source of several minerals that are essential for bone health, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Getting enough of these minerals in your diet can help prevent osteoporosis and other conditions that weaken bones.
Decreases Risk of Chronic Diseases
Research has shown that diets rich in legumes like lima beans can help decrease the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. This is likely due to the high nutrient content of legumes, as well as their ability to promote healthy digestion and regulate blood sugar levels.
Versatile Ingredient in Recipes
Lima beans are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, from soups and stews to salads and dips. They have a mild flavor that pairs well with many different herbs and spices, making them a great addition to any meal. Here are some recipe ideas to get you started: - Three Bean Salad: Combine cooked lima beans with kidney beans and chickpeas, then dress with olive oil and vinegar.
Eat food, not too much, mostly plants.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medium Green Lima Beans
1. What are medium green lima beans?
Medium green lima beans are a type of legume that are harvested when they are still young and green. They are also known as butterbeans and have a creamy texture and a slightly sweet taste.
2. What are the nutritional benefits of medium green lima beans?
Medium green lima beans are a good source of protein, fiber, and important vitamins and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and iron. They also contain antioxidants and have been linked to a reduced risk of certain diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
3. How are medium green lima beans typically prepared?
Medium green lima beans can be prepared in a variety of ways, including boiling, steaming, and roasting. They can also be added to soups, stews, and casseroles, or mashed and used as a spread or dip.
4. Are there any potential health risks associated with eating medium green lima beans?
While medium green lima beans are generally considered safe to eat, they contain a natural toxin called cyanide that can be harmful in large amounts. However, the amount of cyanide in Lima beans is generally not harmful unless consumed in excessive amounts.
5. Are medium green lima beans suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Medium green lima beans are a good option for people who follow vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free diets. However, they may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as those with a history of kidney stones or gout.