Calories in Beans, navy
Named for the U.S. Navy, these small white beans sustained sailors at sea for decades.
What makes beans so powerful?
Navy beans earned their moniker not from their color, but from their historical role as a dietary staple in the United States Navy during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The military valued them because their small size, tough skins, and low fat content allowed them to survive long voyages without spoiling. Beyond their shelf stability, navy beans possess a unique biochemical trait: they are exceptionally rich in resistant starch. Unlike typical carbohydrates, resistant starch escapes digestion in the small intestine and ferments in the large colon, acting as a prebiotic that feeds beneficial bifidobacteria. This fermentation process produces short-chain fatty acids, particularly butyrate, which serves as the primary energy source for colon cells. Furthermore, the cellular structure of navy beans traps a significant portion of their starch within intact cell walls, meaning even after cooking, their glycemic impact remains remarkably low compared to processed carbohydrates. This combination of maritime durability and complex carbohydrate chemistry makes them a fascinating study in how historical survival foods often align with modern metabolic health principles.
To maximize digestibility and reduce the oligosaccharides that cause gas, soak dry navy beans in water for at least 8 hours, discarding the water before cooking. Simmer them gently until tender, as boiling can cause the skins to split while the interiors remain chalky. Because they are low in the sulfur-containing amino acid methionine, pair cooked navy beans with a whole grain like brown rice or a small amount of fish to create a complete protein profile. Store dried beans in an airtight container away from light to maintain their moisture balance.
Calories by Serving Size
Full Nutrition Facts
Per 100g — daily values based on a 2,000 calorie diet
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in Beans, navy?
Beans, navy contains 119 calories per 100g. A standard serving of 1 RACC (130g) provides 155 calories. It is a moderate-calorie food that can fit into most healthy diets.
How much protein does Beans, navy have?
Beans, navy provides 6.57g of protein per 100g, which is 13% of the 50g daily recommended value. It is not a primary protein source.
How many carbs are in Beans, navy?
Beans, navy contains 20g of carbohydrates per 100g .
Is Beans, navy good for weight loss?
Beans, navy has 119 kcal per 100g, which is relatively moderate. It can fit into a weight-loss diet as long as portion sizes are managed.
How do I track Beans, navy calories accurately?
The easiest way to track beans is with CalRay. Simply snap a photo of your meal and the AI will automatically identify the food and calculate calories and macros based on the estimated portion size — no manual lookup required. You can also search by name and adjust gram weight manually.