When you have a craving for something creamy and hearty to spread on your crackers and breads, whip up a bean spread. Your tummy will thank you.

Because beans not only taste good and satisfy, but also they appear to lower your risk of several types of digestive tract cancers -- including stomach cancer.

Gut-Loving Legumes
And you don’t have to eat a ton of beans to get the cancer-protection benefit. In a study, people who ate just two small servings per week enjoyed a significantly lower risk for gut cancer, compared to folks who ate fewer of the pulses. Here’s the list of cancers that beans appeared to defend against in addition to stomach cancer: mouth, esophagus, rectum, and kidney. Not too shabby! Try this delightfully quick and easy recipe: Butter-Bean Spread.

The Bean Facts
Researchers think that the fiber, folate, calcium, and isoflavones found in beans do something special to defend against cancer. If a bean spread isn’t your speed, try one of these other fabulous bean incarnations from EatingWell:

• When a pasta craving hits: Linguine with Fennel & Butter Beans.
• When only Mexican food will do: Quesadillas con Frijoles Refritos.
• When you need the perfect appetizer: White Beans, Spinach & Tomatoes over Parmesan Toasts.

And here’s a good reason to add extra beans to your chili this fall.