Chickpeas, are legumes from the Mediterranean and the Middle East, which have now spread throughout the world, taking an important place in different cuisines such as Italian, Greek, Indian, Spanish, Portuguese and even Latin American; each one with a different flavor and recipe, but undoubtedly, with the same benefits regardless of their preparation. They are widely used in vegan and ovo-lacto-vegetarian diets and by those who want to try other food options.
Chickpea is usually round, and has a light brown color, however, there are also other varieties in black, green and red. Similar to what happens with other legumes, such as peas or lentils, chickpeas are greatly appreciated thanks to their high protein and fiber content.
You can consume them in many ways, either in soups, broths, salads or snacks, they will always be an ideal choice for your diet, and they also have a delicious flavor and are incredibly versatile, besides, it is one of the most beneficial and healthy legumes that you can find in any supermarket at a very low price.
The way to prepare chickpeas is not very relevant, you can cook them from scratch or buy them canned, their benefits will remain intact in any way. However, whatever your choice, you must take special care to wash them thoroughly before preparing them, to remove all the brine they have and that may be harmful to your health.
Thanks to their high fiber content, chickpeas are ideal to be eaten as a snack, since they can satisfy hunger in the afternoon if you eat a small amount. In addition, they are excellent for controlling cholesterol and triglycerides, thanks to their low fat and sodium levels.
For athletes, chickpeas are excellent, thanks to their contribution of folates, which are beneficial and essential to help the growth and regeneration of tissues, prevent anemia and strengthen the cardiovascular system.
They are very good for people with diabetes, this is because they help to maintain the correct levels of blood sugar, and even prevent the early onset of this disease. In addition, chickpeas contain antioxidant phytonutrients, which help to protect the body against free radical damage, and are important factors in delaying aging effects.
According to several studies, it has been shown that sufferers from type 1 diabetes who consume foods rich in fiber such as chickpeas, tend to have lower levels of blood glucose. On the other hand, when people who suffer from type 2 diabetes consume chickpeas, their blood sugar level, lipids and insulin levels improve.
Without a doubt, chickpeas are a superfood that will help you improve your health in an incredible way. Although many people are unaware of its benefits, it is appropriate to include them in their diet since it provides a large number of benefits that will affect their health, therefore, do not stop consuming them frequently.
ALFA