If you're looking for a low calorie legume that's also rich in fiber and protein, you might want to consider adding canned pinto beans to your diet. With only 110 calories per 1/2 cup (128 g) serving, pinto beans are a great addition to any meal.

In addition to being low in calories, pinto beans are also packed with fiber. A 1/2 cup serving provides 8 grams of fiber, which is 32% of the daily recommended intake. They're also a good source of protein, providing 7 grams per serving.

In this article, we'll explore some of the many benefits of canned pinto beans and how you can incorporate them into your meals.

Low Calorie Legume

As mentioned earlier, canned pinto beans are a great option for those looking for a low calorie legume. They can be a filling addition to meals without contributing excessive calories. This can make them a good option for weight management and those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Additionally, choosing pinto beans over higher calorie protein sources such as beef can help reduce overall calorie intake without sacrificing nutritional value.

Good Source of Fiber

Canned pinto beans are also a great source of fiber, with a 1/2 cup serving providing 8 grams of fiber. This is 32% of the daily recommended intake for adults. Fiber plays an important role in digestion and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. It can also help regulate blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol levels.

Rich in Protein

Pinto beans are a good source of protein, providing 7 grams per 1/2 cup serving. This makes them a good choice for vegetarians and vegans looking to incorporate more plant-based protein sources into their diets. Protein is an essential nutrient that plays a key role in muscle growth and repair. It can also help keep you feeling full and satisfied, making it an important component of a healthy diet.

Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly

Pinto beans are a great option for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet. They're a good source of plant-based protein and can be used in a variety of dishes to add flavor and texture. Moreover, using pinto beans as a meat substitute can help reduce overall calorie and fat intake while providing the body with essential nutrients.

Easy to Prepare

Canned pinto beans are easy to prepare and require minimal effort. They can be added to salads, soups, stews, and other dishes for added texture and flavor. To prepare canned pinto beans, simply drain and rinse them before using them in your desired recipe. They can be heated on the stove or added to a microwave-safe dish for easy meal prep.

Versatile Ingredient

Pinto beans are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. They can be added to salads, soups, stews, and chili, or used as a filling for tacos and burritos. Moreover, pinto beans can be blended into dips and spreads or mashed and used as a substitute for mashed potatoes.

Affordable and Accessible

Canned pinto beans are an affordable and accessible ingredient that can be found in most grocery stores. They're available year-round and are often sold in bulk, making them a cost-effective option for meal planning. Additionally, pinto beans have a long shelf life and can be stored in the pantry for months.

Healthy Addition to Any Meal

Canned pinto beans are a healthy addition to any meal. They're low in calories, high in fiber and protein, and provide essential nutrients such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. Moreover, incorporating more legumes into your diet may help lower the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.

Can Help with Weight Management

Due to their low calorie content and high fiber and protein content, canned pinto beans can help with weight management. Including more fiber and protein in your diet can help keep you feeling full, which can lead to reduced calorie intake and weight loss over time.

May Lower the Risk of Chronic Diseases

Legumes such as pinto beans have been associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. This may be due in part to their high fiber content, as well as the presence of phytochemicals and antioxidants that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.