Lentils represent a main dish in many Asian cuisines. It is used in the preparation of many healthy meals, like salads, cereals, soups. These little legumes are a real source of health.
Lentils regulate blood sugar
The lentil is great for regulating and maintaining the healthy level of glucose in the blood. One clinical study, published in the journal Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice, showed that participants who had increased the number of soluble fiber (the lentil is rich in soluble fiber) had their levels of blood glucose improved.
Maintain energy
Since the lentil is good in regulating blood sugar levels, it prevents energy waste, as well as the spreading of sugar in the blood. Iron deficiency is a major factor of fatigue and low energy, and the lentil is an excellent source of iron. One full glass has 6.6 mg, which is 37% of the recommended daily value.
Source of dietary fiber
The lentil is a champion when it comes to dietary fiber, which is essential for overall optimal health. Lentils possess soluble and insoluble fiber, which is of great importance. A glass full of lentils provides an impressive 15.6 g of dietary fiber, which is 63% of the recommended daily value.
Lentils preserve cardiovascular health
It is highly beneficial and favorable when it comes to heart health. An extensive study was conducted with participants from the US, Finland, the Netherlands, Italy, the former Yugoslavia, Greece and Japan for over 25 years, which showed that those who ate legumes in the study had an impressive 82% reduction in risk of death from heart disease. Another study published in the journal Stroke showed that those who ate food rich in fibers (such as lentils) had a significant reduction in the risk of coronary heart disease, cardiovascular disease, and stroke.
Rich in proteins
When it comes to proteins, we usually seek them in meat, but the lentil is also rich in protein. It is an excellent alternative for meat. A cup full of lentils provides 17.9 g of protein, which is 36% of the recommended daily amount.
Lentils help in weight loss
The lentil is quite low in calories and very low in fat. All these factors combined with high dietary fiber make lentils a super food for weight loss.
