This guide answers the question “Are lima beans healthy?” and will also explore some of the main benefits of lima beans and even the origin of lima beans.
The short and straightforward answer to the question “Are lima beans healthy?” is yes, lima beans are healthy.
So, go ahead and read through to learn more and have a better understanding of the health benefits of lima beans.
The name lime beans comes from Lima, which is the capital of Peru.
People in Central and South America have prized lima beans for centuries for the energy and nutrients they provide.
As early as 800 BCE, Peru’s ancient Moche civilization used large, flat beans in their cooking.
Lima beans are available in different kinds. The most popular kinds are cream-colored or pale green.
The large ones are referred to as butter beans, whereas the smaller ones are sometimes referred to as baby limas.
Limas are classified as legumes, which are pods or seeds that include peas, beans, lentils, chickpeas, and peanuts.
Fresh lima beans are harvested in the fall, but most people go for frozen, dried, or canned beans.
What Are Lima Beans?
The scientific name of the lima bean is Phaseolus lunatus, and it is a member of the Fabaceae or Leguminosae plant family.
Lima bean is commonly known as a “butter bean” or “horse bean,” thanks to its creamy texture and buttery flavor.
Presently, lima beans are grown commercially in the United States. They are enjoyed all over the world in several different kinds of creative recipes.
As a matter of fact, all around most of Europe, these edible pods are traditionally eaten or used as a vegetable side dish. This is also the case in the Middle East and Asia.
Health Benefits of Lima Beans
For years, legumes, which include lima beans, have been studied by nutrition researchers.
As you know, they are a common food that is eaten all over the world.
Research tells us that an increase in your intake of lima beans or even any bean provides you with certain health benefits.
May Boost Gut Health
Beans are a good source of resistant starch, and resistant starch is well known to help feed the good bacteria colonies in the gut, which in turn contributes to a healthy gut microbiome.
Stabilizes Blood Sugar
Studies also show that an increase in the consumption of beans, lentils (a group called “pulses”), and peas can help people with and without diabetes enhance long-term glycemic control in their diets.
Lowers Cholesterol
Including beans in your diet might help lower LDL cholesterol, which is also commonly referred to as “bad” cholesterol.
Helps With Weight Control
In every serving, lima beans contain nutritious portions of protein and fiber and might help you lose weight when added to your diet.
The protein present in lima beans might be particularly beneficial.
As a matter of fact, research shows that an increase in your protein consumption might help support appetite control, decrease food cravings, and increase feelings of fullness.
Equivalently. Fiber can slow the emptying of your stomach and, in turn, keep you full, which will result in the enhancement of weight loss.
To wrap it up, research shows that eating more beans and legumes can be tied to decreased body fat and, more importantly, increased weight loss.
Supports Brain Health
Lima beans are known to be a good source of manganese. And manganese is a mineral that is crucial to the health of the brain and nervous system.
How To Cook Lima Beans
Lima beans are simple to make, and you can get them anywhere, either dried or canned.
Canned lima beans are already cooked, and you can eat them as they are.
However, in the case of dried lima beans, you will need to cook them before you can eat them.
You should soak the dried lima beans in water overnight before you cook them.
Doing this helps reduce the cooking time and also decreases the total number of anti-nutrients.
Below are some steps to follow when you are ready to cook the lima beans:
First, rinse the beans, then get a pot and combine 1 cup (170 grams) of lima beans with 4 cups (945 mL) of water and a bit of salt in it.
That being done, proceed to bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and allow the lima beans to simmer for 45 to 60 minutes.
Or, just until it becomes soft and tender. After that, just drain the beans before you use them in your favorite recipes.
Most times, chefs prepare lima beans with seasonings, stock broth, and ham to create a delicious side dish.
You can also add lima beans to stews, salads, soups, and succotash, which is a popular dish that is traditionally made with lima beans and sweet corn.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m sure that with everything you’ve read so far, it is quite obvious that lima beans are healthy.
So, now, let’s look into a few frequently asked questions about lima beans.
Are Lima Beans Keto Friendly?
The short answer to this question is no; lima beans are not keto-friendly. Lima beans, black beans, and kidney beans are examples of high-carb legumes.
So, if you are following a ketogenic diet, I strongly suggest that you avoid it.
These beans contain a high carbohydrate content and will not work with a ketogenic diet.
How Many Types Of Lima Beans Are There?
There are three sizes of lima beans: giant, tiny, and dwarf. The tiny, light-green lima beans are also commonly referred to as sieve beans, baby limas, civets, Caroline beans, sivvy, and seewee.
Baby and green lima beans are known to be gentler and less starchy in comparison with huge lima beans, which have an earthy flavor.
Can You Eat Too Much Lima Beans?
Even though lima beans might not be quite as common as other legumes, they are a different kind of bean that is farmed all around the world.
They are rich in several essential nutrients and might help enhance heart health, weight loss, and blood sugar control.
However, they conclude that they include toxic substances such as linamarin and anti-nutrients that can upset the stomach, so be careful not to eat them too much.
Final Thoughts on Lima Beans
Lima beans are a kind of legume with a mild, creamy flavor that goes well with different kinds of dishes.
You will find important nutrients present in them, and they can help maintain blood sugar levels, promote heart health, and increase weight loss.
As previously mentioned, they might also contain harmful compounds such as anti-nutrients and linamarin, which might cause digestive issues when consumed in high amounts.
Make sure that you always soak raw or dried lima beans before you cook them.
I suggest you enjoy your lima beans in moderation as part of a healthy, well-rounded diet, just like other legumes.
And, that being said, this will be the wrap-up of this guide as the answer to the question “Are lima beans healthy?” has been provided.
