Beans, beans are good for your heart…

…and may also promote a healthy digestive tract, reduce your risk of some types of cancer and help control diabetes and maintain healthy blood glucose levels, according to the American Dietetic Association. Beans are jam-packed with protein, fiber, calcium, iron and many other nutrients. They make a great addition to soups, salads and sandwiches (hummus, made from chickpeas, makes an excellent sandwich condiment). Dry, canned, frozen or fresh beans all work well. From the New York Times “Recipes for Health” section, here’s a recipe for a “Tuna and Bean Salad” that calls for cannellini beans.

Image: Andrew Scrivani for New York Times

…and may also promote a healthy digestive tract, reduce your risk of some types of cancer and help control diabetes and maintain healthy blood glucose levels, according to the American Dietetic Association. Beans are jam-packed with protein, fiber, calcium, iron and many other nutrients. They make a great addition to soups, salads and sandwiches (hummus, made from chickpeas, makes an excellent sandwich condiment). Dry, canned, frozen or fresh beans all work well. From the New York Times “Recipes for Health” section, here’s a recipe for a “Tuna and Bean Salad” that calls for cannellini beans.

Image: Andrew Scrivani for New York Times