Why Most New Year’s Resolutions Fail And Why “Eat a Bean a Day” Works

Did you know approximately 80% of New Year’s resolutions fail by February? In fact, by mid-January (dubbed “Quitters’ Day”) many have abandoned their 2026 New Year’s resolutions. Health resolutions often fail because they’re too complicated, not sustainable or too big of a behavior change. When trying to make a change to be healthier, it’s best to start off with small, manageable changes. And I mean REALLY small… perhaps as small as a bean?

Here are the top 5 reasons why you should: “Have a Bean a Day” in 2026

Reason #1: Beans might be the ultimate “Longevity Food”

What we eat every day matters. Healthier eating patterns are linked to a lower risk of chronic disease and longer, healthier lives. Researchers built a model that estimate how long people might live based on what they eat. The biggest “gains” came from eating more legumes (beans) and whole grains, even more so, than simply cutting out unhealthy foods. Another study, pooling results from over 1.1 million people found that higher legume intake was associated with a slightly lower risk of all-cause mortality. And the more legumes you eat? The better the results! Choosing just one bean-rich meal a day may be a simple habit that supports long-term health.

Reason #2: Beans are a win for a healthy gut

Eating beans can improve gut health because they’re one of the most concentrated whole-food sources of fiber, especially the type that feeds the beneficial bacteria living in your gut. When these bacteria are well-fed, they help support digestion and reduce inflammation. Unlike extreme cleanses, complicated gut-health trends, or expensive supplements, adding beans might be the most affordable and effective “supplement” you can add to your healthy eating resolutions.

Reason #3: American Heart Association (AHA) recommends beans and other legumes as part of a heart healthy eating pattern

The AHA emphasizes eating beans because they’re “little powerhouses” that improve heart health by binding cholesterol and removing it from the body. Beans are also high in fiber which helps to control blood sugar and contain zero saturated fat. Foods high in saturated fat are the main drivers of cardiovascular disease. And honestly? We’d much rather eat a bean a day than take a statin a day.

Reason #4: Beans are a powerful plant-based protein

The New Dietary guidelines for Americans have nearly doubled protein recommendations and beans are a good source of protein. As longevity expert Bryan Johnson, puts it “legumes should have their own prominent category, placed high on the pyramid as a primary protein and fiber source.” And he’s not wrong. Just ¼ cup of beans provides about 7 grams of plant-based protein, roughly the same as one egg. What makes bean protein special is the package deal; it’s packaged with all the beneficial plant compounds that come with fruits and vegetables. Eating fruits, vegetables (and beans, because beans are a vegetable) has BEAN associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity.

Reason #5: Beans are delicious and fit into almost any meal

New Year’s resolutions often fail when they feel restrictive or boring. Beans are the opposite –they’re incredibly versatile, delicious, and can be enjoyed in almost any meal, from Mocha Black Bean Truffles to Pumpkin Chilis. Beans easily take on the flavors you love, while adding texture, richness, and satisfaction to meals. When healthy habits taste good and don’t require sacrificing enjoyment, they’re far more likely to stick.

The takeaway? You don’t need a total diet overhaul to make a meaningful difference. Simply committing to “a bean a day” is a small, realistic, healthy habit that supports long-term health throughout 2026 and beyond.

Here’s to keeping your 2026 New Year’s Resolutions in check! View our recipes for ways to start adding beans to every meal.