Legumes are one of the healthiest and most nutritious foods you can add to your diet. Despite the fact that many of us treat legumes with caution for fear of stomach problems, these products are very healthy and deserve to become a regular dish on your table. In this article, we'll look at 10 reasons why you should include legumes in your diet.
- Vegetable protein
Bean products are rich in vegetable protein. For example, peas, beans and lentils are about a quarter protein, and soybeans are about a third. That is why they are necessarily included in the diet of vegetarians. Plant protein is an excellent substitute for meat protein and allows you to get essential nutrients without consuming animal products.
- Easily digestible protein
Protein from legumes is much easier to digest than meat. This is due to the fact that plant protein has a simpler structure than animal protein and therefore breaks down faster.
- Plant fiber
In addition to vegetable protein, legumes contain coarse fiber - plant fiber, which is necessary for the normal functioning of the digestive system. A glass of lentils contains half the daily requirement of fiber. Regular consumption of legumes helps cleanse the intestines and prevent constipation.
- Prevention of serious diseases
Legumes are successfully used as a preventive measure for some serious diseases. For example, green peas contain active anti-sclerotic substances that help prevent the development of cardiovascular diseases.
- Potassium and folic acid
Beans are rich in potassium and folic acid. They protect our body from infections and effectively cleanse the blood. The potassium in beans also helps lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular function.
- B vitamins
Due to the high content of B vitamins, these products reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. B vitamins are also necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system and improved mood.
- Manganese
Legumes also contain sufficient amounts of manganese, which helps strengthen hair and improve its structure.
- Reducing blood sugar and cholesterol levels
Studies show that after 2-3 weeks of daily consumption of 100-150 g of beans, blood sugar and cholesterol levels are significantly reduced. This is because legumes contain slow-digesting carbohydrates that do not cause sudden spikes in blood sugar levels.
- Essential amino acids
Regular consumption of peas and beans makes a person calm and balanced. This is explained by the content of essential amino acids in these products, including lysine. Essential amino acids are necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system and increased emotional stability.
- Saturation and strengthening of the immune system
Eating legumes not only quickly fills you up, but also strengthens your nervous and immune systems. Legumes contain vitamin C, which helps fight infections and strengthens the immune system. In addition, legumes are an excellent source of energy and help improve physical endurance.
Legumes are healthy and nutritious foods to include in your diet. They have many beneficial properties, such as a high content of plant protein, plant fiber, vitamins and minerals, which help promote health and prevent various diseases. Try adding legumes to your diet and see how they can make your life healthier and more fulfilling.