1 Cup (188.0 G) Lima Beans, cooked are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. With only 216 calories per serving, they make a great low-calorie option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. And that's not all - these beans are packed with a variety of nutrients that offer a range of health benefits.
One of the most significant benefits of Lima Beans is their high fiber content. A single cup of cooked Lima Beans contains 14 grams of fiber, which is equivalent to over half of the recommended daily intake for adults. This makes Lima Beans great for regulating digestion and promoting overall gut health.
Let's take a closer look at some of the many health benefits that Lima Beans have to offer.
High Fiber Content
As mentioned earlier, Lima Beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber. In addition to promoting good digestive health, fiber can also help to reduce cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease. Fiber-rich foods like Lima Beans add bulk to the diet, making you feel full more quickly and reducing the likelihood of overeating. This can help to promote weight loss and healthy weight management. Overall, Lima Beans are an excellent addition to any diet, particularly for those looking to improve digestive health or reduce their risk of heart disease.
Rich in Protein
In addition to being high in fiber, Lima Beans are also a great source of plant-based protein. A single cup of cooked Lima Beans contains around 15 grams of protein, which is equivalent to around 30% of the recommended daily intake for adults. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues throughout the body, making Lima Beans an excellent post-workout snack or meal. What's more, plant-based protein sources like Lima Beans are generally lower in fat and calories than animal-based protein sources. Overall, Lima Beans are an excellent option for vegetarians and those looking to reduce their consumption of animal products.
Source of Vitamin B6
Lima Beans are also a good source of vitamin B6, which plays a critical role in brain function and the synthesis of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Vitamin B6 is also essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting the production of red blood cells. Studies have even suggested that adequate vitamin B6 intake may help to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia in older adults. Overall, adding Lima Beans to your diet is an excellent way to ensure that you're getting enough of this essential nutrient.
Low in Fat
Another benefit of Lima Beans is that they are naturally low in fat. A single cup of cooked Lima Beans contains only around 1 gram of fat, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. In addition to being low in fat, Lima Beans are also cholesterol-free. This makes them an excellent option for those looking to reduce their risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions. Overall, Lima Beans are an excellent addition to any healthy diet.
Boosts Heart Health
Lima Beans are packed with a variety of nutrients that can help to promote heart health. In addition to their high fiber content, Lima Beans also contain potassium, which has been shown to help regulate blood pressure. Furthermore, Lima Beans are rich in antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body and protect against oxidative stress. Studies have even suggested that a diet rich in legumes like Lima Beans can help to reduce the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions. Overall, adding Lima Beans to your diet is an excellent way to promote heart health and protect against chronic diseases.
Natural Energy Booster
Lima Beans are particularly rich in complex carbohydrates, which are the body's main source of energy. This makes them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain energy levels throughout the day. Furthermore, the high fiber content of Lima Beans slows down the release of glucose into the bloodstream, providing a sustained source of energy that can help to prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes. Overall, Lima Beans are an excellent natural energy booster for those looking to maintain optimal energy levels throughout the day.
Lowers Blood Pressure
As mentioned earlier, Lima Beans are an excellent source of potassium, which has been shown to help regulate blood pressure. In addition to their potassium content, Lima Beans are also low in sodium. This makes them an excellent option for those looking to reduce their risk of hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions. Overall, adding Lima Beans to your diet is an excellent way to support healthy blood pressure levels and reduce your risk of chronic diseases.
Supports Digestive Health
One of the most significant benefits of Lima Beans is their high fiber content, which can help to regulate digestion and promote overall gut health. Furthermore, the resistant starch found in Lima Beans can feed the good bacteria in your gut, promoting a healthy gut microbiome and reducing the risk of digestive disorders. Overall, adding Lima Beans to your diet is an excellent way to support digestive health and promote overall gut health.
As mentioned earlier, Lima Beans are an excellent source of fiber, which can help to promote feelings of fullness and reduce the likelihood of overeating. In addition to their fiber content, Lima Beans are also low in fat and calories, making them an excellent option for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Overall, adding Lima Beans to your diet is an excellent way to promote weight loss and healthy weight management.
Versatility in Cooking
Lima Beans are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes. They work well in soups, stews, casseroles, salads, and more. They can be cooked on their own or used as a tasty addition to other recipes, making Lima Beans an excellent staple ingredient to have in your pantry. Overall, Lima Beans are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add more protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients to their diet in a delicious and versatile way.
The fiber and nutrients in Lima Beans can offer a variety of health benefits, from promoting digestive health to reducing the risk of heart disease.
5 FAQ about Cooked Lima Beans
1. What are the nutritional benefits of cooked lima beans?
Cooked lima beans are a great source of fiber, protein, iron, and other essential nutrients. They can help improve digestion, boost energy levels, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
2. How many calories are in a cup of cooked lima beans?
A cup of cooked lima beans contains approximately 216 calories. However, this can vary depending on the preparation and cooking method.
3. How should I incorporate cooked lima beans into my diet?
Cooked lima beans can be added to soups, stews, salads, or eaten as a side dish. They can also be mashed or blended into hummus or dips for a nutritious snack.
4. Are there any potential risks or side effects of eating cooked lima beans?
Cooked lima beans are generally safe to eat, but some people may experience bloating, gas or other digestive issues if they consume too much. Additionally, lima beans contain a compound called phytohaemagglutinin, which can be toxic if consumed in large amounts.
5. Can cooked lima beans be frozen?
Yes, cooked lima beans can be frozen for later use. It's best to let them cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to six months.