What is the glycemic index of butter beans?
According to the January app, the glycemic index of butter beans is 31. This is considered Low. By looking up butter beans in the January app, you can quickly see the glycemic index of that food as well as the glycemic load. This information can help guide your dietary choices.
What impact will this have on my blood sugar levels?
When you eat butter beans, your blood sugar levels will not rise much. This is because of the low glycemic index of butter beans. Foods with a high glycemic index can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, while foods with a low glycemic index will cause a more gradual increase.
When using the January app, we can see the calories, macros, and glycemic index (GI) / glycemic load (GL) of that food item. But here's the best part: We can also see our predicted blood sugar response, without requiring you to wear a sensor.
Can people with diabetes eat butter beans?
Bursting with nutrients and having a low glycemic index, butter beans can be a suitable addition to the diet of people with diabetes. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider or dietitian to determine portion sizes and to ensure it fits into your overall dietary plan. This blog does not serve as medical advice.
What are the health benefits of butter beans?
Butter beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. They are also rich in protein, making them a great plant-based protein source. Additionally, they provide numerous vitamins and minerals, including calcium, potassium, and iron, which are essential for overall health and wellbeing.
Nutritional Information
Here is the nutritional information for butter beans:
- Calories: 187 per cup (170g)
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 0.7g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 13g
- Calcium: 62mg
- Potassium: 631mg
- Sodium: 0mg
- Vitamin C: 1.8mg
What are some healthy alternatives to butter beans?
If you're looking for healthy alternatives to butter beans, consider trying other low glycemic index legumes such as black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas. Lentils and green peas are also excellent options that provide similar nutritional benefits and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Conclusion
Butter beans are a nutrient-dense, low glycemic index food that can be a beneficial addition to most diets, including for individuals managing diabetes. They provide essential nutrients while having a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. The versatility of butter beans makes them a great ingredient for many recipes, and their health benefits make them a food worth including in your meal planning.
Use January to see your predicted blood sugar before you eat
To check the glycemic index of over 32M foods, as well as see your predicted blood sugar response before you eat them, use the January app. It’s completely free to download and use and it provides you with a treasure trove of nutritional and glucose insights to help you achieve your health goals.
FAQs about Butter Beans
Does the glycemic index of butter beans change depending on whether they are fresh or canned?
Yes, the glycemic index of butter beans can differ slightly depending on their form. Fresh butter beans typically have a lower glycemic index compared to canned ones. The canning process often includes additives like salt or sugar, which can alter their nutritional profile and glycemic response.
How does cooking method affect the glycemic index of butter beans?
The glycemic index of butter beans can vary with different cooking methods. Boiling them maintains their low glycemic index, while methods that involve addition of fats, like sautéing or frying, can increase it slightly due to the added fat and calorie content altering the absorption rate of carbohydrates.
Is consuming butter beans at different times of the day significant for blood sugar levels?
While the glycemic index of butter beans remains consistent, eating them at different times can affect your blood sugar levels depending on your body's metabolic rate. Consuming them as part of a balanced meal in the morning may provide sustained energy, whereas eating them in the evening, especially if paired with other low-GI foods, could help in stabilizing blood sugar levels overnight.
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