7 Healthiest Beans, Grains and Legumes

7 Healthiest Beans, Grains and Legumes
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Stocking up your pantry with healthy staples is always a good idea. The more healthy food options we have on hand, the less likely we are to binge on Pringles. Right?  

Fortunately, there are plenty of healthy and tasty options in the dried goods category to include in your diet to augment all those super healthy fruits and vegetables you’re already eating. Check out these favorites.

1. Quinoa

If you’re a vegan or vegetarian, quinoa is a must. And it’s a good idea for meat-eaters too because quinoa is a fantastic plant protein—more than any other grain (although quinoa is technically a seed).

It’s a great source of B vitamins, all nine essential amino acids, and provides an excellent boost of fiber, iron and calcium. Cook it like you would rice and serve it much the same way. Try it as a pilaf or even in the morning in place of oats.

2. Millet

A lesser known grain here in the U.S., millet is consumed in quantity throughout Asia and Africa. It is gluten-free and has an alkalizing effect on the body as well. While less protein-rich than quinoa, it’s still an excellent source—about 15 percent protein per serving. It’s also a good food for remineralizing—containing high levels of iron, magnesium and potassium.

3. Lentils

(AN NGUYEN/Shutterstock)
AN NGUYEN/Shutterstock
Jill Ettinger
Jill Ettinger
Author
Jill Ettinger is a freelance journalist and marketing specialist primarily focused on the organic and natural industries, she bridges her love for changing the food system with her lifelong passion for writing and connecting people in their shared values. You can connect with Jill on Twitter.