The low cost, nutritional value and distinct taste of beans have earned them a choice place in many a diet. In addition to their rich caloric content, pinto beans stand out with their adaptability to various dish types.
Definition
Calories are units of energy; daily requirements vary with age, gender and activity level. For instance, sedentary males and females ages 31 through 35 need daily calorie levels of 2,400 and 1,800, respectively. By contrast, active males and females ages 31 through 35 need 3,000 and 2,200 daily calories, respectively, to function properly.
Calorie Content
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, half a cup of dry pinto beans provides about 120 calories, while the same quantity of canned pinto beans delivers 103 calories. You may therefore derive about 240 and 206 calories from a full cup of dry and canned pinto beans, respectively.
Nutritional Value
Less than 5 percent of the calories in pinto beans comes from fat. Pinto beans are a good source of protein, soluble fiber, vitamins and minerals. B vitamins and such minerals as calcium, phosphorus, potassium and iron are a few examples of healthy nutrients you may obtain from pinto beans.
Considerations
Like other legumes, pinto beans contain complex indigestible carbohydrates that may cause bloating or an upset stomach. To avoid this, drink plenty of water and clean your pinto beans with several changes of water before cooking them.
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