Photo: jetcityimage Whether you’re trying to eat less meat or are full-on vegan, plant-based proteins are key for well-rounded meatless meals. They also happen to be great for your health, reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, obesity and some cancers. No wonder plant-based eating is on the rise!1
If you’re a Costco shopper, one plant-based protein stands out, namely canned black beans. In addition to protein, canned black beans are full of fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. And that’s only the beginning!
Read on to learn why we’re big fans of canned black beans (and plant proteins in general!), plus simple, tasty ways to incorporate them into your meals and snacks.
Plant-Based Diet for Beginners: Your Guide to Getting Started Why We Love Black Beans
Courtesy of Brand “Black beans are a great example of a single food that promotes heart health, blood sugar balance and even a stronger gut microbiome,” says Alyssa Simpson, RDN, CGN, CLT, an Arizona-based dietitian specializing in digestive health.
Chalk it up to their impressive nutritional profile. “Black beans are a standout plant-based protein because they combine high-quality protein with gut-friendly fiber, supporting steady energy and digestion,” says Simpson. This combo also promotes blood sugar regulation. In addition to 8 grams of protein, one half-cup of canned black beans delivers a whopping 9 grams of good-for-you fiber .2
These mighty little beans boast a unique fiber called resistant starch. As the name suggests, this type of fiber resists digestion in the small intestine. So, after you eat resistant starch, it travels undigested to the colon, where it’s fermented by the healthy live bacteria that reside there. This, in turn, leads to the production of magical compounds called short-chain fatty acids that help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Resistant starch has another neat trick: Research reveals it may also help lower cholesterol.3
And while we often hear how important it is to eat the rainbow, don’t underestimate monochrome-colored foods like black beans. Their deep, dark hue is an indicator of their substantial anthocyanins, bioactive compounds that may help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, […]
The #1 Plant-Based Protein to Buy at Costco, According to Dietitians
