1 serving (170 grams) contains 200 calories, 14.0 grams of protein, 0.5 grams of fat, and 36.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
277.8 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.7 g | 0% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 13.9 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 50.0 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.5 g | 44% | |
| Sugars | 2.8 g | ||
| protein | 19.4 g | 38% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 69.4 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 5.6 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 694.4 mg | 14% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Butter beans
Butter beans, also known as lima beans, are starchy legumes originating from Central and South America, with their use dating back to ancient civilizations like the Incas. They feature prominently in cuisines worldwide, such as Southern American cooking, Mediterranean dishes, and Indian curries. In addition to being rich in carbohydrates, butter beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber. They provide essential nutrients like magnesium, potassium, iron, and folate, along with small amounts of vitamin B6 and zinc. Low in fat and free from cholesterol, butter beans are a wholesome addition to various dietary plans, offering sustained energy and satiety due to their complex carbohydrate profile and fiber content.
Health Benefits
- Highly beneficial for heart health due to their potassium content, which helps regulate blood pressure levels (518mg potassium per half-cup cooked butter beans).
- Supports digestive health as butter beans are high in dietary fiber, promoting regularity and gut health (6 grams of fiber per half-cup serving).
- Rich in folate, essential for cell repair and DNA synthesis, especially important for pregnant individuals (approximately 45% of daily folate needs per half-cup serving).
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store dried butter beans in airtight containers in a cool, dry place for up to a year. For cooked beans, refrigerate in a sealed container within 3-4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Common Questions About Butter beans Nutrition
Are butter beans high in protein?
Butter beans are a moderate source of protein, offering about 8 grams of protein per 100 grams of cooked beans. They are a good plant-based protein option, particularly for vegans and vegetarians, but they are not as high in protein as lentils or chickpeas.
Can I eat butter beans on a keto diet?
Butter beans are not typically suitable for a keto diet due to their carbohydrate content. A 100-gram serving contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates, which may exceed the daily carb allowance for strict keto adherents.
What are the health benefits of butter beans?
Butter beans are rich in fiber, aiding digestion and supporting heart health. They also provide essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and folate, which are important for red blood cell production and energy metabolism. However, canned butter beans may contain added sodium, so it's best to rinse them before consumption.
What is the recommended portion size for butter beans?
A standard portion size for cooked butter beans is about ½ cup (approximately 120 grams), which contains around 100 calories. This portion provides a good balance of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates, making it suitable for most meal plans.
How do butter beans compare to navy beans?
Butter beans are larger and creamier compared to navy beans, which are smaller and firmer. Nutrition-wise, both are similar, but butter beans typically have a milder flavor and slightly fewer calories (100 calories per ½ cup compared to 120 calories for navy beans). Butter beans are often used in creamy recipes, while navy beans work well in soups and stews.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025: VegetablesU.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesHighlights the importance of consuming legumes such as butter beans as part of a healthy dietary pattern.
- Legumes and Pulses: Nutritional and Health BenefitsHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public HealthDiscusses the health benefits and key nutrients of legumes, including butter beans, as part of a balanced diet.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
