Beans are a smart addition to any diet. They stabilize blood sugar and help offset inflammatory effects of other foods. In fact, a meal with beans or legumes raises blood sugar very slowly and moderately, and even moderates the blood sugar response to the next meal you eat, whether this next meal includes beans or not. Lentil, garbanzo, black and pinto beans are great classic options, but if you’re looking to try something new, opt for one of these types:
- Adzuki beans
- Anasazi beans
- Appaloosa beans
- Calypso beans
- Cranberry beans
- Fava beans
- Lupini beans
- Mung beans
- Trout beans
To avoid high levels of sodium, rinse canned beans before consuming or buy dry beans and soak them before use.
What types of beans do you incorporate into your diet to stay healthy?
I love Pussac Punay beans from Peru. Everytime I make them and eat them I feel great! I make sure to soak them and rinse them several times throughout the 6-8 hours prior to cooking. They have great texture and flavor. I get mine from Zocalo Gourmet – importers of Peruvian foods. I use them to stuff peppers, mix in salads or with other veggies for meatless meal. I love them!