Member of the legume family, chickpeas popularly known as Garbanzo Beans (Kabuli Channa), are among the oldest consumed foods of the world. With diverse health benefits to their cap, chickpeas have gained traction and are now recommended by dietitians and health experts across the world.
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE
Low on calories, chickpea is packed with several nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Rich in dietary fiber, a cup of chickpeas have close to 13 grams of fiber, 15 grams of protein, 270 calories, 45 grams of carbohydrates and 4 grams of fat. Soluble fiber present in the chickpeas helps to lower the low-density lipoprotein or bad cholesterol. It serves as a good source of minerals such as manganese, magnesium, zinc, iron, copper and vitamins such as thiamine and Vitamin B6.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF CHICKPEAS
Some of the health benefits of Chickpeas are:
1 . Control Blood Sugar Levels
-Alike other legumes, chickpeas provide the body with a slow and gradual release of energy over an extended period and thereby help in stabilizing the blood sugar levels.
2 . Promote Heart Health
-Studies suggest that beans help in keeping the arteries clear from plaque build-up and thereby maintains healthy blood pressure levels and decreases chances of cardiac arrest.
-Chickpeas have been found to balance unhealthy “bad cholesterol” and prevents heart problems.
3 . Help In Weight Loss
-Rich in fiber and protein, chickpeas helps one feel full and curb cravings. Paired with other vegetables and fruits, chickpeas serve as an important ingredient for your salads and snacks.
4 . Aid Digestion
-Chickpeas are loaded with fiber. Studies suggest that fiber aids digestion and also decrease the chances of related diseases such as constipation. It also helps in maintaining the pH levels and the microbes of the gut, thereby facilitating digestion
5 . Prevent Cancer
-Rich in phytonutrients and fiber content, chickpeas has been found to arrest cancerous cells from further growth especially in case of colon cancer.
6 . Delay Ageing
-Rich in antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E and beta carotene, chickpeas help in fighting the oxidative stress and thereby delays ageing.
So, go ahead and add these nutritious legumes to your daily diet in the form of salads and snacks and reap the countless benefits that they have to offer. Eat Healthy, Stay Happy!