What structural component slows carbohydrate digestion in lima beans, preventing sharp blood sugar spikes?

High amounts of fiber and protein

The benefit lima beans offer regarding the maintenance of stable blood glucose levels stems directly from the manner in which their overall structure dictates digestion speed. They are rich in complex carbohydrates, which inherently take longer to break down than refined sugars. However, the crucial moderation factor comes from the substantial inclusion of both dietary fiber and plant-based protein within the same serving. Both fiber and protein are macronutrients that require extended time and complex processes within the digestive system to be fully broken down and absorbed. This extended digestive timeline results in a very slow, gradual release of the resulting glucose into the systemic circulation. This prevents the rapid influx of sugar that would otherwise trigger significant, potentially damaging, sharp insulin surges often seen after consuming rapidly digested starches.