Beans Carbohydrates

Is there anything similar to Beans Carbohydrates. I heard about this from a friend, can you tell me something more about this?
(November 16, 2010)

Beans Carbohydrates

Complex carbohydrates are basically those carbohydrates that form long chains of sugar molecules that are known as starches.  Starches are known to be easily digested by the body, however cellulose which is an important content of dietary fiber is not digested by the body and hence may lead to weight gain when accumulated in the body. Complex carbohydrates are found in various vegetables, seeds, nuts etc and should constitute an important part of one’s diet on a daily basis. Beans are also a rich source of carbohydrates and are also known to be a source of vitamins, minerals and fiber. Some types of beans are also known to provide the body with calcium, iron, potassium, sodium and other such nutrients. The fiber and the carbohydrates in beans is known to have plenty of health benefits as they help in relieving constipation, maintain normal blood glucose levels and also have a protective effect on the heart against conditions like heart disease, obesity diabetes and so on.


Beans tend to lower the total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Carbohydrates in beans are also known to be highly beneficial to one’s health as beans tend to have a low glycemic value and the high fiber content in beans ensures that there are no glucose or insulin spikes in the blood. Additionally, beans are also known to provide the individual with many bodybuilding benefits as they are rich sources of proteins and fiber besides carbohydrates and are also a cheap and relatively inexpensive source of protein and fiber.

Beans or legumes are known to be one of the primary sources of energy to the body as they are also known to fill up the individual. Additionally beans, being high in fiber and carbohydrates, also help one lose weight or maintain a desirable weight as they take longer to digest which results in the individual feeling satiated for a longer period of time and hence not eating too often. Those who plan on adding beans to their diet on a regular basis need to remember that there are certain sugars in beans that cannot be digested and are therefore attacked by the bacteria in the intestine to produce gas. Most dieticians will therefore recommend that beans be soaked in some water for some time before cooking them as this tends to reduce the potential formation of gas. One may also avoid the problem of gas associated with beans by gradually introducing beans to their diet and also maintaining a high intake of fiber.

Carbohydrates in Beans

Beans are a rich source of B complex vitamins. Iron, potassium, calcium and magnesium are also present in beans. They are not complete proteins, though certain amino acids in dried beans have the capacity to overcome certain diseases. Soluble fibre in beans helps in reduction of cholesterol. Beans have a low glycemic index due to which, a steep rise in the blood sugar levels are not seen. Half a cup of dried beans provide 120 calories and complex carbohydrates. Other protective factors present in beans are folates, zinc, resistant starch, selenium, non starch polysaccharides, selenium and oligosaccharides. They help in lowering the risk of colon cancer and type 2 diabetes mellitus. It strengthens immune system by improving the nutritional status in overcoming AIDS. Bad or LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol are reduced. It enhances control of diabetes in type 1 and 2. It reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Inhibitors or non nutritive substances, such as saponins, phytates, protease inhibitors, lectins and saponins are seen. They provide little fat and are devoid of cholesterol.

One cup of white beans provides 46 grams of carbohydrates.

100 grams of green gram beans- 15 grams

100 grams soybeans- 17 grams

100 grams of lentils- 17 grams