Are Beans Keto? Can You Eat Them On a Low-Carb Diet?

Are Beans Keto? Can You Eat Them On a Low-Carb Diet?

MyPromeals

Beans are often hailed as superfoods, offering numerous health benefits that can lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and obesity. Not only are they gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian-friendly, but they are also budget-friendly. However, when it comes to the keto diet, are beans really the best choice?

Why Are Beans Not Keto-Friendly?

In the realm of the low-carb, high-fat ketogenic diet, most beans are considered high in carbs, making them less suitable for keto enthusiasts. A single serving of beans could easily consume a significant portion of your daily carb intake. Let's delve into the numbers for some popular beans:

Nutritional Information of Popular Beans (per half-cup serving)

Bean Type

Fiber (g)

Total Carbs (g)

Net Carbs (g)

Mung Beans

7.7

19.4

11.7

Fava Beans

4.5

16.5

12.0

Black Beans

9.0

19.4

11.7

Pinto Beans

7.5

22.5

15.0

Lima Beans

4.5

20.0

15.5

Garbanzo Beans

6.3

22.5

16.2

Kidney Beans

6.4

22.8

16.4

White Beans

5.5

22.0

16.5

Net Carbs Comparison of Popular Beans

Graph showing net carbs content for each type of bean.

Most of the common beans are not ideal for the keto diet, as a half-cup serving can contain 11-16g of carbs, significantly impacting your daily carb allowance.

The Lowest-Carb Bean for Keto

Among the list provided, mung beans stand out as the most keto-friendly option. However, depending on the specific type of keto diet you follow, even they may not fit your nutritional goals. Remember, when it comes to beans and keto, it’s essential to strike a balance that aligns with your dietary preferences and health objectives.

Nutritional Information of Beans for Keto (per half-cup serving)

Bean Type

Net Carbs (g)

Protein (g)

Mung Beans

11.7

7.0

Green Beans

3.0

2.0

Soybeans (Edamame)

7.5

8.5

Garbanzo Beans

16.2

7.3

Net Carbs Comparison of Beans

Graph showing net carbs content for each type of bean.

Different Types of Beans and Their Carb Content

When we think of beans, the usual suspects come to mind. However, there's a whole world of beans out there that may pique your interest, especially if you're following a keto diet.

Nutritional Information of Bean-Based Products

Product

Net Carbs (g)

Protein (g)

Soy Milk (1 cup)

13.5

7.0

Tofu (3.5oz/100g)

<2.0

8.0

Tempeh (3oz/85g)

16.0

15.0

Ground Coffee Beans (1 cup)

0.0

0.3

Dark Chocolate (1oz)

15.0

2.0

Plain Cocoa Beans (1oz)

9.0

2.0

Net Carbs Comparison of Bean-Based Products

Graph showing net carbs content for each product.

High-Protein, Low-Carb Keto Alternatives to Beans

If you're skipping beans but still want to amp up your protein intake, here's the scoop on some fantastic options that can keep you healthy and satisfied:

Nutritional Information of Keto-Friendly Alternatives

Alternative

Net Carbs (g)

Protein (g)

Ground Turkey

0.0

21.0

Flax Seeds (1 Tbsp)

0.1

1.3

Cottage Cheese (1 cup)

6.0

28.0

Nut Butter (2 Tbsp)

4.1

8.0

Greek Yogurt (1 cup)

6.0

10.0

Salmon (3oz)

0.0

19.0

Eggs (1 large)

0.4

6.0

Blackberries (1 cup)

6.2

2.0

Coconut (1 cup)

6.1

3.0

Cauliflower (1 cup)

3.0

2.0

Red Cabbage (1 cup)

2.5

1.0

Net Carbs and Protein Comparison of Keto Alternatives

Graph showing net carbs and protein content for each keto alternative.

Plant-Based Protein Alternatives Beyond Beans

Embracing a plant-based lifestyle doesn't necessarily mean going fully vegan or vegetarian. By incorporating a variety of delicious plant-based foods and whole fruits and vegetables into your daily meals, you can unlock numerous health benefits such as reduced blood pressure, healthier cholesterol levels, weight management, and a lower cancer risk.

Nutritional Information of Plant-Based Protein Sources

Plant-Based Source

Net Carbs (g)

Protein (g)

Tofu (3oz)

1.6

7.0

Avocado (100g)

8.5

2.0

Beyond Meat (1 patty)

5.0

20.0

Broccoli (1 cup)

4.6

2.6

Peanut Butter (2 Tbsp)

4.1

8.0

Hemp Hearts (3 Tbsp)

1.0

10.0

Plant-Based Protein Powder (1 serving)

2.0

30.0

Plant-Based Milk (1 cup)

0.0

8.0

Net Carbs and Protein Comparison of Plant-Based Sources

Graph showing net carbs and protein content for each plant-based source.

Summary

Green beans, brewed ground coffee beans, and soybeans are relatively low-carb options, depending on how they are prepared. Be cautious with soy products like tempeh or soy milk, as well as chocolate-covered coffee beans, as they can significantly increase your carb intake if not consumed mindfully! Swap out beans with other protein and fiber-rich foods to enjoy the same nutritional benefits. Explore plant-based meals that can easily replace beans in your favorite recipes!

Enhancing your diet with plant-based foods like whole vegetables not only aids in cancer prevention and cardiovascular health but also presents keto-friendly, high-protein choices.

Are Beans Keto? Can You Eat Them On a Low-Carb Diet? | ProMeals Blog

ProMeals Meal Prep Delivery FAQs

While most beans are high in carbohydrates and not typically suitable for a keto diet, there are a few keto-friendly beans that you can enjoy in moderation. Green beans and black soybeans are excellent low-carb bean options that can fit into your keto diet plan. Green beans are versatile and can be a great addition to salads or stir-fries, while black soybeans can be used in soups and stews for a heartier meal. For more inspiration and delicious keto meal options, visit mypromeals.com and explore our wide range of keto-friendly dishes.

When following a keto diet, it's important to choose beans that are low in carbohydrates. Black soybeans and green beans are among the best low-carb beans you can incorporate into your meals. Black soybeans are particularly keto-friendly as they have significantly fewer carbs compared to other beans, making them a great addition to soups and stews. Green beans, on the other hand, are perfect for salads and side dishes, providing a crunchy texture with minimal carbs. To discover more low-carb meal options and delicious keto-friendly dishes, be sure to visit mypromeals.com.

When following a keto diet, it's essential to steer clear of high-carb foods that can disrupt ketosis. The number one carb to avoid is sugar, as it is a carb-heavy food that can quickly increase your carbohydrate intake and hinder your progress on a keto diet. Sugar is found in many processed foods and drinks, so it's important to read labels carefully. By eliminating sugar, you can better control your carb intake and stay on track with your keto goals. For delicious low carb meal options that can help you maintain your keto lifestyle, visit mypromeals.com and explore our selection of keto-friendly dishes

Potatoes are generally considered high-carb foods and are not suitable for a keto diet due to their high carbohydrate content. Consuming potatoes can quickly increase your carb intake, making it difficult to maintain ketosis. However, there are several low-carb alternatives that you can enjoy instead. Cauliflower and turnips are excellent substitutes that provide similar textures and flavors without the excess carbs. These alternatives can be used in a variety of dishes, from mashed sides to roasted entrees. For more inspiration and to explore delicious low-carb meal options, visit mypromeals.com and discover our range of keto-friendly meals.

When it comes to reducing belly fat on a keto diet, it's essential to avoid high-carb foods, particularly refined carbohydrates. Foods like white bread, sugary snacks, and pastries are among the worst offenders for accumulating belly fat. These carb-heavy foods can spike insulin levels and lead to fat storage in the abdominal area. To effectively manage your weight and reduce belly fat, consider incorporating low-carb meal options into your diet. For delicious and satisfying keto-friendly meals that support your health goals, visit mypromeals.com and explore our selection of nutritious dishes.

When following a low-carb diet, it's important to steer clear of foods that are high in carbohydrates. Here are five foods to avoid: sugary snacks and beverages, white bread, pasta, rice, and starchy vegetables like potatoes. These foods can quickly increase your carb intake and disrupt your low-carb goals. For delicious low-carb meal options, visit mypromeals.com and explore a variety of keto-friendly dishes that fit perfectly into your lifestyle.

Incorporating certain foods into your diet can help support fat loss, especially around the belly. Five foods known to aid in burning belly fat include avocados, almonds, green tea, eggs, and fatty fish like salmon. These foods are rich in healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, which can help boost metabolism and promote weight loss. For more meal ideas that feature these fat-burning foods, check out the keto-friendly options at mypromeals.com

The cleanest carbs you can eat on a low-carb or keto diet are those that provide essential nutrients without spiking your blood sugar. Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, and zucchini are excellent choices as they are low in carbs and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. These veggies can be easily incorporated into a variety of keto meals. To find delicious meals featuring clean carbs, visit mypromeals.com and explore our menu.

Eggs are a staple in the keto diet due to their high protein and healthy fat content. While the number of eggs you can consume daily varies based on individual nutritional needs, many people on a keto diet enjoy 3-6 eggs per day. Eggs are versatile and can be included in meals throughout the day, from breakfast omelets to dinner scrambles.

Peanut butter can be a keto-friendly food when consumed in moderation. It's important to choose natural peanut butter that doesn't contain added sugars or hydrogenated oils. Peanut butter is rich in healthy fats and provides a small amount of protein, making it a satisfying snack on a keto diet. However, be mindful of portion sizes to keep your carb intake in check.

Bananas are generally not suitable for a keto diet due to their high carbohydrate content. Even though they are rich in essential nutrients and fiber, a medium-sized banana can contain over 20 grams of carbs, which can quickly exceed the daily carb limit on a keto diet. Instead, consider low-carb alternatives like berries, which can be enjoyed in moderation. 

When following a keto or low-carb diet, it's important to avoid foods that are high in carbohydrates. Some of the highest carb foods to steer clear of include sugary snacks and beverages, pasta, rice, bread, and starchy vegetables like potatoes and corn. These foods can spike blood sugar levels and disrupt ketosis. For tasty low-carb alternatives and meal inspiration, check out mypromeals.com and discover our range of keto-friendly dishes.

On a low-carb or keto diet, the healthiest carbs are those that provide essential nutrients and fiber without causing a spike in blood sugar levels. Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and broccoli are excellent choices, as they are low in carbs and packed with vitamins and minerals. These vegetables can be incorporated into various keto meals. To find meals featuring these healthy carbs, visit mypromeals.com and explore our high protein menu.

Rule #1 of many low-carb diets, including keto, is to avoid white carbohydrates. This means steering clear of foods like white bread, white rice, and pasta, which are high in carbs and low in nutritional value. These foods can quickly derail your low-carb or keto goals by spiking blood sugar levels and interrupting ketosis. By focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods, you can better maintain a low-carb lifestyle. For more meal ideas that align with this rule, visit mypromeals.com and explore our keto menu

Four bad carb foods to avoid on a low-carb or keto diet include sugary drinks, pastries, white bread, and candy. These foods are not only high in carbohydrates but also offer little to no nutritional benefits. They can lead to increased blood sugar levels and weight gain. Instead, focus on low-carb alternatives that align with your diet goals.

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