Calories in Lima Beans: Nutrition Facts & Serving Sizes
Per 1 cup (156g)
Per 100g
Source: USDA FoodData Central, SR Legacy, March 2026.
A 1-cup serving of lima beans (156g) contains 176 calories with 10.6g of protein, 31.5g of carbs, 7.6g of fiber, and only 1.4g of fat. Per 100g, lima beans provide 113 calories, 6.8g of protein, and 20.2g of carbs. Lima beans (also called butter beans) are a starchy legume with a creamy texture and mild flavor. They are rich in potassium at 467mg per 100g (about 10% daily value), magnesium at 58mg (14% daily value), and iron at 3.1mg (about 17% daily value for adults). Vitamin C at 23.4mg per 100g is notably high for a legume, covering about 26% of the daily requirement. Lima beans are particularly valuable for their high magnesium content, which supports muscle function, nerve transmission, and energy production. The 4.9g of fiber per 100g supports digestive health and sustained energy release. Lima beans work well in soups, stews, and as a side dish. They are commonly sold frozen or canned for convenience.
Nutrition Highlights
Calories by Serving Size
| Serving | Cal | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 cup (156g) | 176.3 | 10.6g | 31.5g | 1.4g | 7.6g |
| 100g | 113 | 6.8g | 20.2g | 0.9g | 4.9g |
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Full Nutrition Facts (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 113 | 6% |
| Protein | 6.8g | 14% |
| Total Fat | 0.9g | 1% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.2g | 1% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20.2g | 7% |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.9g | 18% |
| Sugars | 1.5g | 3% |
| Sodium | 8mg |
Vitamins & Minerals (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Saturated Fat | 0.2g | 0% |
| Calcium | 34mg | 3% |
| Iron | 3.1mg | 17% |
| Potassium | 467mg | 10% |
| Vitamin A | 10mcg | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 23.4mg | 26% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.2mg | 12% |
| Magnesium | 58mg | 14% |
| Phosphorus | 136mg | 11% |
| Zinc | 0.8mg | 7% |
| Selenium | 1.8mcg | 3% |
| Folate | 34mcg | 9% |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.2mg | 17% |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.1mg | 8% |
| Niacin (B3) | 1.5mg | 9% |
% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA reference).
Health Benefits of Lima Beans
Lima beans are an underrated legume for body composition and overall health. The protein content at 6.8g per 100g is moderate, but a full cup provides 10.6g, contributing to daily protein targets. The protein is plant-based, so combining lima beans with rice or corn completes the amino acid profile.
The magnesium content at 58mg per 100g is one of the standout nutrients. Magnesium participates in over 300 enzymatic reactions including muscle contraction, protein synthesis, and energy metabolism. Most people fall short on magnesium intake, and lima beans are one of the better food sources. Low magnesium is associated with muscle cramps, fatigue, and impaired sleep quality.
Iron at 3.1mg per 100g is meaningful for a plant food. A cup of lima beans provides about 4.8mg, covering roughly 27% of the daily requirement for adults. Pairing lima beans with vitamin C-rich foods enhances non-heme iron absorption.
The vitamin C content at 23.4mg per 100g is surprisingly high for a bean, providing a built-in iron absorption enhancer within the same food.
Potassium at 467mg per 100g supports muscle function, blood pressure regulation, and electrolyte balance. A cup of lima beans provides 729mg, contributing significantly to the recommended 2,600mg to 3,400mg daily intake.
Dietary Considerations
Lima beans are naturally gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free. They are not suitable for keto or very-low-carb diets due to their carb content of 20.2g per 100g. However, the high fiber content (4.9g per 100g) makes the net carb count about 15.3g per 100g. Lima beans are excellent for weight loss due to their high protein, fiber, and water content, which promotes satiety. They are very low in sodium at just 8mg per 100g, making them one of the better beans for heart health and blood pressure management. Canned lima beans are higher in sodium due to the brine, so rinse them before eating.
Daily Intake (100g)
100g of lima beans provides 6% of a 2,000-calorie diet.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories in lima beans?
A 1-cup serving of lima beans (156g) contains 176 calories. Per 100g, lima beans have 113 calories. Frozen and canned lima beans have similar calorie counts to fresh cooked beans. They are a moderately calorie-dense legume with high nutritional value.
Are lima beans good for weight loss?
Yes, lima beans are good for weight loss. They have 10.6g of protein and 7.6g of fiber per cup serving, both of which support satiety. The protein-fiber combination helps you stay full longer, making it easier to maintain a calorie deficit.
How much protein in lima beans?
A 1-cup serving of lima beans (156g) has 10.6g of protein. Per 100g, lima beans provide 6.8g of protein. As a plant-based protein source, lima beans pair well with grains to complete the amino acid profile.
Are lima beans high in potassium?
Yes, lima beans are high in potassium at 467mg per 100g. A 1-cup serving provides 729mg of potassium, covering about 21% of the daily recommended intake for adults. Potassium supports muscle function, blood pressure, and electrolyte balance.
Are lima beans keto-friendly?
No, lima beans are not suitable for strict keto. They contain 20.2g of carbs per 100g with 4.9g of fiber, giving a net carb count of about 15.3g per 100g. A full cup has 31.5g of carbs, which would exceed a typical daily keto carb limit on its own.
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