(HealthDayNews) -- Eating plenty of legumes -- such as lima beans, kidney beans and black-eyed peas -- can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke and help prevent cancer.
Other beneficial legumes include navy beans, garbanzos, black beans, lentils and fava beans, according to Duke University Medical Center.
A serving (one-third cup of cooked beans) contains about 80 calories, little fat, no cholesterol, and plenty of complex carbohydrates. These legumes also provide a good source of B vitamins, potassium and fiber.
Legumes make a great side dish and can also be used as a substitute for meat. While legumes don't contain complete proteins such as meat, you could supplement your diet by eating grain or dairy products along with legumes.
