Assets of cooking

Baked beans are a protein-rich, low-calorie food, and as such are an appropriate part of a weight-loss dietary regimen. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Nutrient Database notes that although baked beans are low in fat and high in protein, they do not provide vital vitamins and minerals, such as calcium or vitamins B-12 and C. Consuming large amounts of baked beans can also have some undesirable side effects, most notably flatulence. Consult your doctor before beginning any weight-loss program.

The idea that baked beans can help you lose weight gained a foothold in the public consciousness in 2008, when British newspaper "The Sun" published a story about a man who managed to shed 140 pounds by eating nothing but baked beans. Neil King, then 40, remained on the diet for nearly a year, and he cut out all alcohol and high-fat foods.

Baked beans are high in protein and low in fat, two attributes considered a healthy addition to any diet; that said, they should only be one part of a balanced diet, not a diet in and of themselves, one nutrition expert told "The Sun." Baked beans are also rich in fiber, which plays a crucial role in digestion and helps keep you full for longer.

Protein is crucial for the efficient functioning of the body. Consuming protein with complex carbohydrates such as whole-grain bread or pasta can help you to feel fuller for longer. If you feel fuller for longer, you will be less likely to snack on unhealthy foods such as candy, cookies or sweets. Baked beans also contain plenty of iron, which is vital for blood function.

Although baked beans can be good for health, they can also cause problems like flatulence. Some brands of baked beans pack lots of sugar, and nearly all regular canned varieties are high in sodium --- around 870 milligrams per cup, according the USDA database, which is a hefty percentage of the 2,300-mg recommended maximum daily intake. Increased consumption of sodium can cause heart disease and diabetes.