Welcome to the Nutrition Diva podcast, where we take a closer look at nutrition trends,

research, and guidelines to help you make more informed, confident choices about what you eat.

I'm your host, Monica Reinagle, and today's topic amounts to, well, it amounts to a hill of beans.

We are scheduled to update the dietary guidelines for Americans this year, and the

Scientific Advisory Committee recently submitted their report and their recommendations,

which influenced nutrition policies and programs for the next five years.

One of the committee's new recommendations was that Americans aim to consume two and a half

cups of beans or lentils per week.

Now, that's almost double the previous recommendation of one and a half cups per week.

And the truth is,

most Americans don't come even close to meeting the old target. Today, I want to take a closer look at the rationale behind this change in guidance, as well as some of the reasons

that so many Americans, maybe you, remain somewhat indifferent to the musical fruit. And if you don't

get that reference, it's clearly been too long since you were in the third grade. And finally,

assuming I am able to make a compelling case for why beans deserve a bigger place on your

plate, I'll offer you some practical tips on how to make that

happen. The Dietary Guidance Advisory Committee's rationale for increasing bean consumption is

based on multiple health and sustainability benefits. Beans are an excellent source of both

protein and fiber. And fiber, of course, is an essential

nutrient that many Americans struggle to get enough of. Unlike meat, which offers lots of protein,

but no fiber, or grains which provide fiber, but not very much protein, beans are the whole package. Not only that,

but they are eminently affordable. And with grocery prices on everyone's mind these days,

that's a welcome bonus. Increased bean consumption is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease,

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