The legume family consists of plants that produce a pod with seeds inside. The term “legume” is used to describe the seeds of these plants. Common edible legumes include lentils, peas, chickpeas, beans, soybeans, and peanuts. The different types vary greatly in nutrition, appearance, taste, and use, as previously noted. Here Joanne Washburn, Food.news, reflects on why lentils should be part of your diet:

“Lentils are one of the oldest known crops worldwide. Traditionally, lentils are cultivated across the Mediterranean and the Middle Eastern regions, where the legume is commonly used to add a rich, nutty flavor to curries, stews and casseroles. It may not look like much, but the humble little legume packs amazing benefits linked to cardiovascular health, metabolism and cell development. Like most legumes, lentils boast an impressive nutrition profile chock-full of high-quality protein, dietary fiber, good carbohydrates and micronutrients.

The following are eight known health benefits linked to lentils.

Contain nutrients

Out of all plant-based foods, lentils contain the highest amount of proteins. But lentils also boast a long list of macronutrients, vitamins and minerals that aid various body functions including metabolism, immunity and blood circulation. A 100-gram serving of raw lentils contains the following:

• Calories: 352 kcal
• Protein: 24.63 g
• Carbohydrates: 63.35 g
• Fiber: 10.7 g
• Fat: 1.06 g
• Calcium: 35 mg
• Iron: 6.41 mg
• Magnesium: 47 mg
• Phosphorus: 281 mg
• Potassium: 677 mg
• Zinc: 3.27 mg
• Vitamin C: 4.5 mg
• Choline: 96.4 mg

Lentils are also an excellent source of B complex vitamins that boost immunity and support cell growth and development. B complex vitamins also slow the aging process. Meanwhile, amino acids, which are produced when proteins are broken down, promote healthy hair, skin and nails.

Supports cardiovascular health

Lentils contain soluble fiber that inhibits the absorption of excess cholesterol, thus clearing the arteries of any cholesterol plaque and reducing the risk of cardiovascular conditions. Lentils also promote blood circulation due to the presence of iron, an important mineral that aids the production of oxygen-carrying red blood cells.”

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