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Beans are probably some of the most perfect foods you can eat. They are full of fiber (17g of the daily 24g recommended for women), low-fat, have lots of protein and are rich in antioxidants. They may help to reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, some cancers and may even help you to lose weight.
The 2005 Dietary Guidelines suggests that you eat 3 cups of beans a week. This is three times the average weekly intake of only 1 cup per week. A study published in the July 2005 issue of the Journal of Nutrition, stated that people who ate at least one serving (1/3 cup) of legumes a day had a 38 percent lower risk of having a heart attack (www.prevention.com/article). However, eating more than one serving a day did not seem to offer more protection for you heart.
If you prefer to not eat beans “straight up”, try adding them to your favorite dishes. Put them in soups or casseroles, toss them into green salads, mix beans in with your vegetables. Or find new and fun side dish recipes to try.
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