Early version. Nutrient values from USDA FoodData Central; dietitian review in progress. Not medical advice.

Black beans vs navy beans: which is healthier?

They are about equally nutrient-dense: black beans scores 69/100 and navy beans 68/100, so pick by your goal. Both can be part of a healthy diet; the table below shows where each one is stronger. Source: USDA FoodData Central.

Black beans

69/100High nutrient density

132 kcal per 100 g. 1 cup cooked: 172 g

Navy beans

68/100High nutrient density

140 kcal per 100 g. 1 cup cooked: 182 g

Which to pick for your goal

  • Fewer caloriesAbout even132 vs 140 kcal per 100 g
  • More proteinAbout even8.9 vs 8.2 g per 100 g
  • More fiberNavy beans8.7 vs 11 g per 100 g
  • Less sugarAbout even0.3 vs 0.4 g per 100 g
  • More potassiumAbout even355 vs 389 mg per 100 g
  • Less saturated fatAbout even0.1 vs <0.1 g per 100 g

Nutrition side by side

Per 100 g and per typical portion. Bold marks the better value for each row.
NutrientBlack beans, 100 gNavy beans, 100 gBlack beans, 172 gNavy beans, 182 g
Calories132 kcal140 kcal227 kcal255 kcal
Protein8.9 g8.2 g15 g15 g
Carbohydrates24 g26 g41 g47 g
Sugars0.3 g0.4 g0.6 g0.7 g
Fiber8.7 g11 g15 g19 g
Fat0.5 g0.6 g0.9 g1.1 g
Saturated fat0.1 g<0.1 g0.2 g0.2 g
Vitamin C0 mg0.9 mg0 mg1.6 mg
Vitamin A0 µg0 µg0 µg0 µg
Potassium355 mg389 mg611 mg708 mg
Iron2.1 mg2.4 mg3.6 mg4.3 mg
Calcium27 mg69 mg46 mg126 mg
Magnesium70 mg53 mg120 mg96 mg
Sodium1 mg0 mg1.7 mg0 mg

Last updated . Scores use the HowHealthyIs Score method.

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