One serving of refried beans (half bird) contains 45 calories. Refried beans are a popular side dish that is both delicious and nutritious. They are an excellent source of fiber, protein, and carbohydrates. In this article, we will explore the nutritional content and health benefits of refried beans.

Refried beans are made by mashing cooked pinto beans, along with spices and seasonings. They are typically served as a side dish with Mexican food or as a filling for burritos and tacos. A serving of refried beans typically contains 1-2 grams of fat, 8-10 grams of carbohydrates, and 4-5 grams of protein.

Along with being a tasty and versatile food, refried beans can offer several health benefits. They may help lower cholesterol, control blood sugar levels, and promote digestive health. In the following sections, we will explore the specific benefits of refried beans and their nutritional content.

Calories in a serving of Refried Beans (Half Bird)

As mentioned earlier, a serving of refried beans (half bird) contains 45 calories. This is a relatively low-calorie food compared to other side dishes like french fries or onion rings. If you're trying to watch your calorie intake, refried beans can be a great choice to help you stay on track. They are also a good source of fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied, making it less likely that you will overeat.

Amount of fat in Refried Beans (Half Bird)

A serving of refried beans typically contains 1-2 grams of fat. This is a relatively low amount of fat compared to other side dishes like loaded potato skins or cheese fries. Most of the fat in refried beans comes from the added oil or lard used to cook them. To reduce the fat content, try making your own refried beans at home with a healthier fat source like olive oil or avocado oil.

Protein content in Refried Beans (Half Bird)

A serving of refried beans typically contains 4-5 grams of protein. This may not sound like a lot, but it can add up if you eat refried beans regularly. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, and it can also help keep you feeling full and satisfied after a meal. If you're looking to increase your protein intake, consider adding some extra beans to your burrito or taco bowl.

Carbohydrates in Refried Beans (Half Bird)

A serving of refried beans typically contains 8-10 grams of carbohydrates. Most of these carbs come from the beans themselves, which are a good source of complex carbohydrates. Complex carbs are digested slowly, providing a steady source of energy over a longer period. This can help prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes, making refried beans a good choice for people with diabetes.

Fiber in Refried Beans (Half Bird)

A serving of refried beans typically contains 4-5 grams of fiber. This is a significant amount of fiber compared to many other side dishes like rice or french fries. Fiber is essential for digestive health and can also help lower cholesterol levels. Eating a diet high in fiber may also help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases like heart disease and colon cancer.

Sodium content in Refried Beans (Half Bird)

A serving of refried beans typically contains around 300-400 milligrams of sodium. This is a moderate amount of sodium and can help contribute to your daily intake limit. However, if you are watching your sodium intake, you may want to limit your consumption of processed or pre-packaged refried beans, which can contain high amounts of added salt. Making your own refried beans at home with fresh or low-sodium ingredients can help reduce your sodium intake.

Cholesterol in Refried Beans (Half Bird)

Refried beans are naturally cholesterol-free, making them a good choice for people with high cholesterol or heart disease. However, it's important to note that many commercial brands of refried beans contain added fats or oils, which can be high in saturated and trans fats. To keep your diet healthy, look for low-fat or fat-free refried beans, or make your own at home using healthful fats like olive oil.

Vitamins and minerals in Refried Beans (Half Bird)

In addition to being a good source of fiber and protein, refried beans contain several essential vitamins and minerals. For example, a serving of refried beans can provide about 10% of your daily iron needs, which is important for healthy blood cells and energy production. Refried beans also contain B vitamins like folate and thiamine, which are important for brain function and energy metabolism.

Ingredients used in Refried Beans (Half Bird)

To make refried beans, you will need cooked pinto beans, along with spices and seasonings like cumin, chili powder, garlic, and onion powder. Traditional refried beans are made with lard, but you can also use healthier fats like olive oil or avocado oil. To reduce the sodium content, use low-sodium beans and avoid adding salt. You can also add some vegetables like chopped bell pepper or jalapenos to give your refried beans an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

Health benefits of Refried Beans (Half Bird)

Refried beans offer several health benefits due to their high fiber, protein, and nutrient content. They may help lower cholesterol, control blood sugar levels, and promote digestive health. Refried beans are also a good source of complex carbohydrates, which can provide steady energy over a longer period. They are also low in fat and naturally cholesterol-free, making them a good choice for heart health.