Do Pinto Beans Increase Blood Sugar Levels?

People who have diabetes or who are otherwise predisposed to blood sugar issues need to be very careful choosing food to eat. Foods that increase blood sugar levels become a rare treat, while foods that have the ability to lower or stabilize glucose levels become the norm. Pinto beans carry a variety of health benefits and, according to The World's Healthiest Foods (WHFoods), a division of the George Mateljan Foundation, do not increase blood sugar levels (see Resources).

Pinto beans originated in South America and were brought to Europe and Asia in the 1400s. Pinto beans are known for being an inexpensive form of protein and, as such, are prepared in many cultures throughout the world. You can find pinto beans in almost any style of food, ranging from Indian dishes to Mexican style entrees and even East Asian cuisine. Pinto beans are white with splotches of red on them and become pink when cooked.

Pinto beans are high in fiber--1 cup of cooked beans contains more than half of the recommended daily allowance of dietary fiber. Diabetics and those with blood sugar issues who need to follow a diabetic diet can actually see a stabilization of their sugar levels as a result of eating pinto beans (WHFoods.com). The combination of fiber and protein found in pinto beans gives diabetics the energy they need for their daily activities without the risk of a spike in their glucose readings.

In addition to helping to control blood sugar levels, pinto beans can help regulate cholesterol levels. A study done by the Agricultural Research Service showed that after eating pinto beans as part of their diet for 3 months, participants who had high cholesterol, high blood sugar or high blood pressure had lower cholesterol levels than before they added pinto beans into their meals. All of the symptoms the participants showed are risk factors for heart attack--any one of the symptoms alone can complicate diabetes and other health conditions if gone untreated.

Pinto beans are widely available in supermarkets and superstores. Pinto beans come canned, which makes for a quick and easy meal, or dried. Dried beans take longer to cook but are less expensive per ounce, making this healthy food accessible to people in every income bracket.

People who have diabetes often watch the amount of carbohydrates they consume and should try to select whole-grain versions when at all possible. Pinto beans can be served in variety of dishes that are part of a health diabetic diet. Meal ideas include serving pinto beans over brown rice, as a staple and thickening agent in chili and as part of a salad. Bean burritos made with whole grain tortillas can be a healthy meal for diabetics as well.