10. Kidney beans
A bean commonly used in Mexican cooking, kidney beans are part of the legume family, along with lentils and chickpeas. Like other legumes, kidney beans are also rich in plant-based protein and they’re therefore a healthy meat alternative.
Kidney beans are also rich in fibre and micronutrients such as iron, copper and folate.
Carb-wise, kidney beans are rich in starches called amylose and amylopectin. These bean starches release their energy slowly as digesting them takes a relatively long time. This means that rather than causing a sharp blood sugar spike, they cause a slow and sustained rise in blood sugar levels.
Studies suggest that bean starch may be of benefit to those with type 2 diabetes, more so than any other high carb food.
Summary:
One cup of cooked kidney beans contains 21g of carbohydrate and they help to stabilise blood sugar levels, therefore reducing cravings.
