Recent studies have shown that as little as 1/3 cup of beans can prevent or reduce peripheral artery disease (the first signs of heart disease). Well, if it’s that easy…giddy up. Any pulse or dried bean will do but here are a few winners.

Highest Protein Bean: Soybeans

Choose whole, organic, frozen edamame beans, steam and salt them. Serve them as a snack or appetizer.

Highest Magnesium Beans: Adzuki Beans

This Japanese bean is worth searching for. It is delicious and ranks highest in many nutrients. Find it in canned form in Asian or health food stores. If you can’t find it, navy beans come close. Add them to pastas and soups.

Easiest Bean: Lentil Hummus

Two tablespoons of this spread will do. Any hummus works but lentils are higher in fibre, folacin and iron. Baby carrots, anyone?

Theresa Albert is an author, nutritionist and health communicator in Toronto. She is @theresaalbert on twitter and found daily at myfriendinfood.com.