Lentils are a popular pulse with a variety of health benefits that are often overlooked. In many households around New Zealand, lentils are a great way to add some nutrition to your family’s diet. Lentils are a great source of protein and fibre, and their flavour makes them a perfect accompaniment to many dishes. Here, we examine the nutritional power of lentils, their surprising health benefits, and how to get the most out of them in your meals.
Nutritional Power of Lentils
Lentils are a great source of nutrition and are a great addition to any diet. They are high in protein, providing 17 grams of protein per 100 grams of cooked lentils. They are also a good source of fibre, with 9.5 grams of fibre per 100 grams. Lentils have high levels of iron, zinc, and folate. This makes them an ideal choice for people who may have difficulty getting the recommended daily intake of iron and zinc, such as vegetarians and vegans.
Lentils are also high in complex carbohydrates, making them a great source of energy. This makes them ideal for athletes and those who lead more active lifestyles. The nutritional power of lentils makes them a great choice for adding some nutritious punch to your meals.
Surprising Health Benefits of Lentils
Lentils have a number of surprising health benefits that make them a great choice for any diet.
- Boost Heart Health: Lentils are a great source of dietary fibre, which has been linked to improved heart health. Studies have shown that diets with increased levels of fibre can reduce cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Help with Weight Loss: Lentils are low in calories, but still provide a feeling of fullness. Eating fibre-rich foods like lentils can help you feel full for longer and reduce cravings for unhealthy snacks. This can be helpful for people looking to control their weight.
Lentils can also help with diabetes management. Lentils are a great source of complex carbohydrates, which break down more slowly than simple carbohydrates. This can help to maintain balanced blood sugar levels, which can be beneficial for people with diabetes.
How to Get the Most Out of Lentils
Lentils are a versatile pulse and can be used in a variety of dishes. They can be cooked as a side dish or as a main course. Lentils can also be used in salads, soups, and stews. There are many different types of lentils available, such as green and red lentils, black lentils, and brown lentils.
When cooking lentils, it is important to follow the instructions on the packaging. Different types of lentils have different cooking times. Overcooking lentils can make them mushy and unappetising. It is also important to rinse lentils before cooking to remove any dirt or impurities.
Adding herbs and spices can bring out the flavour of lentils and make them more appetizing. Adding garlic, onions, and herbs can give the dish an extra kick. Lentils are also a great addition to any stir fry or curry.
You can also add lentils to smoothies or yogurts for a nutritious, protein-packed breakfast or snack. Lentils have a slightly nutty flavour that tastes great in sweet and savoury dishes alike.
Conclusion
Lentils are a great choice for any diet and have a number of surprising health benefits. They are a great source of protein, fibre, and complex carbohydrates, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to add some extra nutrition to their meals. Lentils can be used in a variety of dishes and can be flavoured with herbs, spices, and other flavourings to make them more appetizing.
