Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Oatmeal vs Black Beans: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Oatmeal is generally healthier

Oatmeal comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (17g vs 8.9g), more fiber (11g vs 8.7g), less sugar (0g vs 0.3g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Black Beans

132 kcal

More Protein

Oatmeal

17g

More Fiber

Oatmeal

11g

Less Sugar

Oatmeal

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Oatmeal
389
Black Beans
132
Proteinper 100g
Oatmeal
17g
Black Beans
8.9g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Oatmeal
66g
Black Beans
24g
Fatper 100g
Oatmeal
7g
Black Beans
0.5g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientOatmealBlack BeansDifference
Calories389kcal132kcal+257.0kcal
Protein17g8.9g+8.1g
Carbohydrates66g24g+42.0g
Fat7g0.5g+6.5g
Fiber11g8.7g+2.3g
Sugar0g0.3g-0.3g
Sodium2mg1mg+1.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Oatmeal

Per 100g:389 calories
Per cup (150g):584 calories
Per serving (85g):331 calories

Black Beans

Per 100g:132 calories
Per cup (150g):198 calories
Per serving (85g):112 calories

Diet Compatibility

Oatmeal

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Black Beans

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Oatmeal

  • Higher in protein (17g vs 8.9g)
  • More fiber (11g vs 8.7g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0.3g)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Oatmeal nutrition →

When to Choose Black Beans

  • Lower in calories (132 vs 389)
  • Lower in carbs (24g vs 66g)
  • Lower sodium (1mg vs 2mg)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Black Beans nutrition →

Oatmeal vs Black Beans: Nutritional Analysis

Oatmeal is more calorie-dense at 389 calories per 100g compared to 132 for Black Beans, a difference of 257 calories. On the protein front, Oatmeal delivers more with 17g per 100g versus 8.9g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Oatmeal and Black Beans tell different nutritional stories. Oatmeal provides 66g of carbohydrates, 7g of fat, and 11g of fiber per 100g, while Black Beans contains 24g carbs, 0.5g fat, and 8.7g fiber. The higher fiber content in Oatmeal supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Oatmeal contains 0g while Black Beans has 0.3g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Black Beans is the lower-calorie choice at 132 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Oatmeal provides more protein (17g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Oatmeal offers more fiber (11g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Oatmeal or Black Beans?

Oatmeal has more calories with 389 kcal per 100g, compared to Black Beans with 132 kcal. That's a difference of 257 calories per 100g serving.

Is Oatmeal healthier than Black Beans?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Oatmeal is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Oatmeal has 389 calories, 17g protein, and 11g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Oatmeal and Black Beans?

Oatmeal has more protein with 17g per 100g, compared to Black Beans with 8.9g. Oatmeal provides 8.1g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Oatmeal or Black Beans?

For weight loss, Black Beans is the better choice with only 132 calories per 100g compared to 389 calories in Oatmeal. Oatmeal also offers 11g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Oatmeal or Black Beans have fewer carbs?

Black Beans has fewer carbs with 24g per 100g, compared to Oatmeal with 66g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Black Beans is the better option with 42.0g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.