Different varieties of beans and lentils have different variations of nutritional value and benefits. But there are some things all these hundreds -- even thousands -- of varieties of legume share in common. They are a superfood!

Beans and lentils are high in protein, so they're filing without piling on the fat and calories. Combine these legumes with a whole grain and you have a complete protein, making them an essential menu item for vegetarians and vegans. They are high in fiber, which lowers cholesterol, and they're high in complex carbohydrates which helps maintain steady blood sugar and stave off food cravings. Their nutritional make up helps stave off heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.