If you love comfort food, then baked beans are probably somewhere on your list of favorites!
They're delicious with just about everything, from barbecue pulled pork to mac and cheese.
But baked beans aren't just a comfort food — they're also surprisingly healthy.
We don't normally associate “guilty pleasure” foods with good eating, but baked beans might just be the exception.
There's no doubt that they're a favorite indulgence, but they might be doing more good than we realize.
There's a lot to recommend about this classic dish, which is a long-standing staple at barbecues and picnics.
Not only are beans the "magical fruit" that offer digestive relief “the more you toot,” they're also just an all-around great addition to any diet!
From top-notch weight-loss benefits to incredible vitamins, beans are more than just magical!
Scroll through below to learn more about the awesome delicious-and-nutritious goodness of baked beans!
1. They're Packed With Fiber
Like we said before, that old-fashioned nursery rhyme doesn't lie!
The reason beans make you "toot" is that they're jam-packed with fiber.
All of that dietary fiber helps slow digestion slightly to let your body absorb more nutrients, and it bulks up your digestive food for healthier poops.
2. They're Low In Fat
Baked beans are one of the few indulgent snacks out there that are low in fat.
While getting a small amount of fat is important in any healthy diet, beans are both filling and free of both trans and saturated fats.
Baked beans might have some additional fats, but they're mostly a great way to get protein without animal fats.
3. They Are A Great Source Of Protein
It can be really hard to get enough protein in your diet, especially if you prefer not to eat much meat.
That's why beans are such a great supplement.
They give you boatloads of protein, minus the saturated fats of most meats, which is huge for building healthy muscle mass.
4. They Have Cancer-Fighting Benefits
The fiber in beans may also help to protect your body from cancer.
There's some evidence that the bacteria that feed on the fibers in beans produce a compound that may protect colon cells from cancer.
Beans and other legumes may also contain compounds called phytochemicals, which are being studied for their anticancer benefits.
5. They Help You Feel Full Faster
When you chow down on beans, you're filling your stomach up with a healthy meal that also keeps you feeling satisfied longer.
That's partially because beans contain a lot of soluble fiber, which expands with the water in your stomach.
That leaves you feeling full for longer, and also makes sure that the good stuff makes it out of your stomach and into your bloodstream.
6. They Contain Folic Acid
Folic acid is best known for being a supplement that moms take when they're pregnant to nurture their little ones.
But if you get enough beans in your diet, you may never need a folic acid supplement.
And even if you aren't pregnant, folic acid is great for making new cells and protecting your body from cancer.
7. They Have Plenty Of Vitamins
Folic acid, fiber, and protein aren't all that beans have going for them!
The powerful legumes are a rich source of micronutrients.
From vitamin B (which helps heal skin, hair, and nails) to potassium (which is great for cramps and spasms), beans help amp up your whole body health.
8. They Reduce The Risk Of Heart Disease
Beans are great for pulling cholesterol out of your system, which makes them an awesome asset to heart health.
You need some cholesterol, but too much clogs your arteries, and beans can help process it out.
They may also be good for lowering blood pressure and reducing inflammation, all of which helps make your heart healthier.
9. They Are A Great Source Of Iron
Lots of us don't get anywhere near enough iron in our diets, because it can be hard to get enough from healthy sources.
Red meat has lots of iron, but otherwise isn't that healthy, so it's a good idea to combine small amounts of red meat with lots of beans and leafy greens to get your dose!
Are you a fan of baked beans? Let us know in the comments, and don't forget to SHARE with friends and family!
