'I'm a weight loss expert - this 49p cupboard essential can boost your slimming efforts'

A 49p store cupboard staple could be the key to shedding pounds, according to a weight loss expert.

Beans, including cannellini, red kidney, and chickpeas, are low in calories but packed with protein and fibre, helping dieters feel fuller for longer. They also provide slow-release energy, preventing blood sugar spikes and reducing cravings for unhealthy foods.

Professor Franklin Joseph of Dr Frank's Weight Loss Clinic highlighted their benefits, saying: “Fibre and protein are incredibly important for anyone who is trying to lose weight, and beans have plenty of them both. On top of this, they are also low in calories and nutrient-dense, making them hugely beneficial if your aim is losing fat.”

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He also praised their versatility: “Beans come in a variety of forms, including cannellini, red kidney, soy, and chickpeas, and their versatility makes them a really useful ingredient for adding protein and fibre to meals.”

However, he warned that not all bean products are created equal: “It’s important to read the label to correctly track nutritional value, as some products, including baked beans which many of us eat regularly, can come with lots of added sugar or salt.”

Beans, the seeds of legume plants, are a nutrient-rich staple often sold fresh or dried for longer shelf life. They are particularly valued for their high protein content, which plays a crucial role in muscle growth and repair.

Packed with fibre, beans support healthy digestion while keeping blood sugar levels stable, preventing insulin spikes that could lead to fat storage. This helps maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.

They are also a rich source of folate, essential for healthy cell growth and function, and iron, which supports red blood cell production.

Beyond that, beans boast an impressive nutrient profile, providing potassium, magnesium, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, and vitamins B1, B6, E, and K, making them a versatile and highly beneficial addition to any diet.

Several major UK supermarkets offer 400g tins of cannellini, red kidney, and butter beans for just 49p, making them an affordable and nutritious addition to any diet.

Their versatility means they can be easily incorporated into a range of meals, from salads and soups to wraps and stews, providing a simple way for dieters to boost their protein and fibre intake.

Professor Franklin Joseph emphasised the importance of food choices in weight loss, stating: “The foods we eat play a huge role in helping us reach our weight loss goals, so it’s important to be aware of what we eat.

"Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. These foods nourish your body and keep you feeling full longer, which can help prevent overeating.”