Beans, Americas fruit... most people don't understand just how healthy beans are for your body. They contain some very powerful benefits. There are thousands of varieties of beans. Different beans thrive in different areas and countries. Some beans are actually considered fruits instead of vegetables.

The most common beans are Navy Beans, Garbanzo Beans, Green Beans, Pinto Beans. Kidney Beans, White Beans, Soy Beans, Black Eyed Peas, Green Peas, Early Peas, Lima beans, Butter Beans, Lentils, and Black Beans. These are the kind that are normally eaten , sometimes in soups, stews, main dishes and side dishes. Beans that are not normally eaten are such as Coffee Beans, Cocoa Beans, Castor Beans and Vanilla Beans. These kind of beans are used for flavorings and other production.

Some of the listed health benefits of beans include, regulation of blood sugar, prevention of cancer and heart disease, a good source of antioxidants, soluble fiber, and protein. Beans are also good for those who are trying to lose weight. Because they are mainly protein, they can be substituted for your meat with a lot less fat and calories than the meat.

Beans are also very inexpensive to buy and grow. Dried beans bought buy the bag costs whole lot less than canned or frozen beans. They also have a lot more of the their original nutrients if they are bought and cooked dry instead of processed.

Beans can be used as a main dish, side dish, in salads, soups, stews, dips and dressings. They also contain protein, foliate, potassium and calcium. Beans and brown rice eaten together contain at least 8 of the essential amino acids required to keep us healthy.