Pilates Self-Care Saturday: Lentils or Beans? Which is Better for You?

A perfect balance of lentils and beans, showcasing healthy winter meal options.

As winter settles in, there’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup. Lately, I’ve been slightly obsessed with making lentil soup, and it got me thinking—lentils are known for being healthy, but how do they compare to beans? Is one better than the other, or should we be aiming for a balance of both?

Both lentils and beans belong to the legume family, sharing some impressive health benefits. They are seeds that grow inside pods and come in a variety of forms. Black beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, green lentils, red lentils, and black lentils are just a few examples. They’re packed with protein, fibre, and essential nutrients, but they also have their differences that might help us decide when and how to use them.

Nutritional Comparison

Lentils tend to cook faster and are generally easier to digest than beans. They are also slightly higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates, making them a great option if you’re looking to boost your protein intake without feeling too heavy. Green and black lentils hold their shape when cooked, while red lentils break down, creating a creamy texture perfect for soups.

Beans, on the other hand, are rich in antioxidants and offer a wider variety of flavours and textures. Black beans and kidney beans, for example, are great for heart health and blood sugar regulation. Beans can be a bit more challenging to digest due to their higher content of resistant starch, but soaking or sprouting them can help reduce this.

Which Should You Choose?

The answer really depends on what you’re aiming for. If you’re looking for a quick protein-rich meal, lentils might be your best bet. If you want a heartier dish with more complex textures and a broader range of nutrients, beans are the way to go.

In a Pilates context, we often talk about balance—not just in movement but in nutrition too. Just as we encourage clients to find a healthy balance in their bodies, it’s worth doing the same in our diets. Why not combine beans and lentils in your meals to benefit from the strengths of both? For example, a soup with red lentils and black beans can give you the creaminess of lentils and the texture and richness of beans.

Tips for Balancing Beans and Lentils in Your Diet

1. Mix it up – Alternate between lentil-based dishes and bean-based ones to avoid boredom and maximise nutritional variety.

2. Add plenty of vegetables – Soups and stews are a great way to pack in nutrients. Add carrots, spinach, or kale to boost the fibre and vitamin content of your meal.

3. Season well – Both beans and lentils take on flavours beautifully. Use herbs, garlic, and spices like cumin and turmeric to create nourishing dishes.

4. Consider digestion – If you find beans harder to digest, try soaking them overnight before cooking or stick with lentils, which are typically gentler on the stomach.

Whether you’re curling up with a bowl of lentil soup or making a bean chilli, both options offer fantastic health benefits. Keep experimenting, and most importantly, enjoy the process of nourishing yourself this winter. After all, self-care starts from the inside out—just like Pilates.