At the top of the list is lentils, which are characterized by their cheap price and ease of use in many ways. But nutrition experts say that there is no such thing as an exclusively “superfood” and that a good diet depends on variety to get all the benefits, bearing in mind that some foods contain more nutrients than others.
Here are the main benefits of lentils:
1. Rich in proteins
According to the data of the US Department of Health, every 100 grams of lentils contains 9 grams of protein, which is an essential component, as it is responsible for carrying oxygen, forming antibodies and forming healthy cells. Lentils are superior to other sources of protein, such as meat, as they do not contain many ingredients that cause side effects, making it a great alternative to meat.
2. Beneficial for the stomach
Fiber is an essential component of any healthy diet. Lentils are an excellent source of fiber, especially a “prebiotic”. Not to be confused with “probiotics.” Prebiotics, which are premium-grade plant fibres, serve as food for the microflora, the group of bacteria and organisms that live in the intestines and aid in digestion.
3. Multi vitamins
Lentils are very rich in many vitamins, especially B9 or folic acid, which effectively contributes to the formation of new cells. That is why experts recommend that mothers take it during pregnancy and lactation. According to data issued by the US National Institute of Health, mothers need during pregnancy up to 600 micrograms per day of dietary folate equivalents.
4. Blood sugar levels
Lentils have a low glycemic index (GI). Diabetics need to eat foods that do not cause blood sugar levels to rise rapidly, which can be obtained from eating meals containing any amounts of lentils.
5. Oxygenation of cells
Lentils provide the body with iron, which plays an important role in the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that distributes oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body, and provides myoglobin, which supplies oxygen to muscles, in addition to making some hormones. The British National Institutes of Health also explains that iron deficiency can lead to one of the types of anemia where the blood cannot carry the appropriate amount of oxygen, which leads to a feeling of weakness, fatigue, lack of immunity and the inability to focus.
General Warnings
Of course, no single food is absolutely perfect, so lentils can be an unsuitable option for some, especially those with sensitivity to some of its other ingredients, called “antinutrients”, because they help prevent nutrients from being absorbed.