navy beans

Navy Beans (Haricot/White Beans)

Diet Nutrition

One of the best known bean varieties, navy or haricot or white beans are the original beans used to make Boston baked beans.

Like most beans, navy beans are rich in the best sort of fiber – soluble fiber – which helps to eliminate cholesterol from the body. They are a good source of magnesium, potassium, iron and manganese. As a high potassium, low-sodium food they help reduce blood pressure. Not only are they low in fat, but when combined with grains, beans supply high quality protein which provides a healthy alternative to meat or other animal protein. Navy beans also contain protease inhibitors which frustrate the development of cancerous cells.

To avoid flatulence introduce beans gradually into your diet. In addition, to avoid indigestion when using dried beans, follow cooking instructions carefully, as most beans require several hours soaking in order to destroy the bean toxin lectin. If using canned beans, please note that most varieties are canned in a salt solution, so rinse well before using.

Calories in Navy/Haricot/White Beans:
1 cup cooked = 260 calories