What are Lentils?

Lentils are a type of relatively small, lens-shaped, edible pulse (foraged food) belonging to the legume family. The family also includes dried peas, chickpeas, beans, and peanuts. Lentils are very nutritious and are an excellent source of energy and protein, as well as dietary fiber, several B-vitamins, and essential minerals. Lentils are especially high in folate, iron, phosphorus, and potassium.

Lentils are one of the most ancient and widely cultivated crops in the world and are a valuable source of easily digestible proteins, carbohydrates and fiber. They are easy to cook and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to salads, or even stuffed into burritos and tacos. Lentils are even used as a meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan diets for their high protein content.

Nutritional Profile of Lentils

Lentils are incredibly nutritional and one cup of cooked lentils contains 230 calories,18 grams of protein, 40 grams of carbohydrates and 16 grams of dietary fiber. Lentils are especially high in folate, iron, phosphorus, and potassium. They are also a good source of several B-vitamins and essential minerals, such as magnesium and zinc. Furthermore, they are the only plant based food that has all the nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein.

Health Benefits of Lentils

One of the main health benefits of consuming lentils is that they are a nutrient-dense food source, meaning they are low in calories while being high in important minerals and vitamins. Lentils are also a good source of dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble, meaning that they can help keep your digestive system functioning at an optimal level. Lentils are rich in B vitamins, including folate which helps to convert carbohydrates into energy, as well as iron and potassium, two minerals essential for a healthy immune system and for proper muscle functioning, respectively.

Finally, lentils are also known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, both of which are important for helping to protect our bodies from cancer and other chronic diseases.

Conclusion

Lentils are a type of pulse belonging to the legume family that are a valuable source of easily digestible proteins, carbohydrates and fiber. They are also incredibly nutritious, being especially high in folate, iron, phosphorus, and potassium. Health benefits of consuming lentils include them being nutrient-dense, rich in B vitamins, excellent sources of dietary fiber and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. All of this makes lentils a simply incredible and healthy food choice!