Turns out beans really are good for your heart.

The humblepinto beanis much more powerful than it looks.

and their neutral, almost earthy flavor adds nice notes tocomfort foodfrom a range of cuisines.

pinto beans

Xamtiw/Getty Images

Here are a few of the best health benefits of pinto beans.

Pinto Bean Health Benefits

Xamtiw/Getty Images

Just how nutritious are pinto beans?

Check out some health benefits below.

Spicy Chorizo-And-Pinto Bean Soup

Victor Protasio

Pinto beans are good for the gut, heart, and muscles.

Want toimprove your gut health?

Add some pinto beans to your diet.

bean-cheese-melts-recipe-0320foo

Jennifer Causey

Eating an intentional diet is an easy way toimprove gut health, and includingfiber-rich foodscan help your microbiome.

Pinto beans are packed with potassium.

Pinto beans are also good sources of key vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, says Meyer.

White bean and farro salad served in a white bowl.

Jennifer Causey

Potassium is essential for muscle function and blood pressure.

Pinto beans are rich in essential nutrients.

Pinto beans are also a great source ofphosphorus, an essential mineral.

Skillet Pork Chops and Beans

Greg DuPree

Phosphorus helps with the formation of teeth and bones, says Meyer.

It is also involved in helping make ATP, a key molecule needed for the bodys energy.

Pinto beans are also high iniron.

Iron is also used to make some hormones.

Pinto beans can help energy levels.

Not only will theproteinhelp fuel you, but themagnesiumcontent may make you feel more energized.

Magnesium is key for muscle and nerve function, as well as energy production, says Meyer.

Also in pinto beans: Thiamine, a B vitamin that provides energy for the body.

It also helps the body produce new cells, Meyer notes.

Pinto beans are a good source of antioxidants.

Pinto beans are packed with plant-based protein.

“Plant-based protein is all the rage latelyfor good reason,” explains Melanie Betz, MS, RD.

By eating more pinto beans, you’re also introducing aplant-based dietto your body.

Pinto beans are a good source of fiber.

Along with its plethora of benefits, pinto beans are also a good source of fiber, Betz explains. "

Pinto beans help keep you full.

If you struggle tofeel satiatedafter eating, pinto beans are an excellent addition to your diet, Betz suggests.

“Beans can help control hunger by keeping you fuller longer.”

If you dont eat meat, try a vegan chorizo substitute and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Refried beans made with pintos work so well for this recipe, which covers the beans in melted cheese.

Top with crumbled feta, or a can of tuna for extra protein.