Eat beans, say the smart ones at my fitness center. Just got another e-mail health tip from them, and it's all about, yep, beans.

Beans are inexpensive and delicious and easy to keep stocked in your pantry. Best of all, they're packed with protein, complex carbohydrates, and fiber. They're also cholesterol-free, almost fat-free, and if the health experts of the world are right, they'll even lower your cholesterol. The best when it comes to cholesterol-lowering beans: Pinto, navy, and garbanzo beans all have similar lowering effects. Researchers think it's phytochemicals, the compounds that gives plants their color, that may be responsible.

Time to add beans to your soups, casseroles, salads, dips, and more. Think about making them the focal part of your next meal and see what you think.

Beans are good for us. Martha's post about beans, the magical fruit tells us this, and the high-fiber protein powerhouse can make even the staunchest carnivores feel satisfied after a vegetarian meal that includes beans.

But did you know that eating vegetarian will actually save you money? That's a big consideration right now, with the penny-pinching hitting nearly everyone in some way.

Start with this well-rounded recipe from Epicurious, Pappardelle with Bean Bolognese Sauce, and convert your meat-lovers! With three kinds of beans, tomatoes, butternut squash, and fresh rosemary, you won't be lacking for flavor.

Source