Lentils come in different varieties and are available to buy in store all year round. in UK, the most commonly used ones are red, brown and green lentils. You can get Puy lentils too that are quite popular in France and produced from a region called Le Puy, have a richer texture compared to the other type of lentils and are more expensive. However, they all possess the same nutritional benefits !!! So, let's have a look at it!!
1. LOW IN CALORIES.
Yes!! For those who count calories all day long, this is a great option to incorporate lentil recipes in your diet. You can have a look at my Spicy Vegetarian Lentil Soup. As lentils are high in fiber, it will fill you up quickly and for longer so you would be less tempted to eat between your main meals.
2. REDUCES CHOLESTEROL.
Lentils contains soluble fibres which lowers the bad-cholesterol ( low-density lipoprotein -LDL). In the digestive system, soluble fibres from the lentils attaches to cholesterol molecules inside the small intestine and takes them out of the body, by preventing cholesterol to get absorbed into the bloodstream. As a result, it reduces the overall cholesterol levels.
3. HEALTHY HEART.
High levels of cholesterol in the blood lead to its build up in the arteries, causing heart diseases. This is because the blood flow to the heart becomes restricted, as the arteries are narrowed causing chest pain. Complete blockage of the blood flow can even cause heart attack. As seen previously, lentils reduces levels of cholesterol and the risk of getting heart diseases.
4. GOOD LEVELS OF BLOOD GLUCOSE.
Benefits of lentils includes soluble fibres which has been proven to improve blood glucose levels. It reduces the risk of getting diabetes, insulin resistance and hypoglycemia.
5. HEALTHY DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Lentils also contains insoluble fibres. As it passes through the digestive system, it stimulates the gastro-intestinal tract which in turn regulates bowel movements. It also helps with constipation, as fibres add bulk to the stools.
6. GREAT SOURCE OF PROTEIN AND NUTRIENTS AND SO MORE ENERGY.
Lentils are high in proteins and contain essential nutrients such as iron, folate and potassium. Protein-based meals such as lentils recipes which are very low in fat, can help vegetarians and vegans who can't eat any meat, fish and or even eggs. Iron and folate help in the production and metabolism of energy.
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