1 serving (185 grams) contains 219 calories, 8.7 grams of protein, 1.5 grams of fat, and 42.2 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
218.5 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 1.5 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 320.5 mg | 13% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 42.2 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.2 g | 25% | |
| Sugars | 1.5 g | ||
| protein | 8.7 g | 17% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 57.4 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 2.6 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 0 mg | 0% | |
* 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 Lima beans
Lima beans, also known as butter beans, are a starchy legume originating from Central and South America. They are commonly used in Latin, Mediterranean, and Southern U.S. cuisines. These beans are known for their creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a versatile ingredient in soups, stews, and salads. Lima beans are a nutrient-dense food, providing ample plant-based protein, complex carbohydrates, and dietary fiber. They are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as folate, manganese, copper, and potassium, and serve as a good source of iron and magnesium. With their low glycemic index, lima beans support stable blood sugar levels while promoting satiety and overall health.
Health Benefits
- Excellent source of dietary fiber, aiding digestive health and supporting heart health by lowering cholesterol levels.
- Rich in folate (40% of the daily value per cup cooked), important for DNA synthesis and preventing neural tube defects during pregnancy.
- High in manganese (over 80% of the daily value per cup cooked), which supports bone density and antioxidant defenses.
- Contains potassium (~955 mg per cup cooked), which helps regulate blood pressure and maintain proper muscle and nerve function.
- Provides iron (~4.5 mg per cup cooked), essential for preventing anemia and supporting oxygen transport in the blood.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store dried lima beans in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once cooked, refrigerate them in an airtight container and consume within 3-5 days.
Common Questions About Lima beans Nutrition
Are lima beans high in protein?
Yes, lima beans are a good source of protein, with about 7.8 grams of protein per 1 cup (170 grams) of cooked beans. They are a great plant-based protein option for vegetarians, vegans, and those looking to increase protein intake.
Can I eat lima beans on a keto or low-carb diet?
Lima beans are not ideal for strict keto diets, as they contain approximately 39 grams of carbohydrates per 1 cup of cooked beans, with 13.2 grams being fiber. However, they may fit into a less restrictive low-carb diet if consumed in smaller portions.
What are the health benefits of eating lima beans?
Lima beans are rich in fiber, which supports digestive health, and they are an excellent source of plant-based iron, magnesium, and potassium, which help with energy production and maintaining heart health. Additionally, they contain antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and benefit overall health.
What is a recommended serving size for lima beans?
A typical serving size is 1/2 cup of cooked lima beans, which provides approximately 108 calories, 19.5 grams of carbohydrates, 7.8 grams of protein, and 0.4 grams of fat. This portion is ideal for balancing nutrients within a meal.
How do lima beans compare to chickpeas nutritionally?
Lima beans and chickpeas are both nutrient-dense, but lima beans are slightly lower in calories (108 vs. 134 per 1/2 cup) and have more carbohydrates but less fat. Chickpeas contain more protein per serving (8 grams vs. 7.8 grams) and are higher in certain vitamins like folate. Both are excellent choices depending on your nutritional goals.
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.
- USDA FoodData - Lima beans DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025 (Legumes Section)U.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesHighlights the role of legumes, including lima beans, as a nutrient-dense, plant-based protein source.
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.
