Lentils and chickpeas are one of the few pure foods created by nature which you eat straight from the pod. The grains are simply cleaned whole from the pod or split in two, packaged and ready for you to use. No factory modification of the grains occurs. Just pop them in boiling water until “al dente” or “soft” and combine with other flavours for a perfectly healthy meal.
Lentils and chickpeas are naturally healthy:
- Low fat
- Low sugar
- Low GI (glycemic index)
- Cholesterol free
- High in soluble fibre
- Gluten free
- Whole grain
- Rich in protein and complex carbohydrates
- Excellent source of B vitamins (folate, thiamine and niacin)
- Naturally contain phytoestrogens which may play a role in cancer prevention
- Mt Byron black lentils are particularly rich in antioxidants which has multiple health benefits including preventing free radical damage in the body
Body benefits of lentils and chickpeas:
- Their low GI and high fibre helps your body feel fuller for longer, reducing the desire to eat more.
- Eating plenty of lentils and chickpeas can lower your body’s blood cholesterol levels, a good thing for your heart. Your risk of coronary heart disease is reduced due to the high fibre, low saturated fat and lack of cholesterol in these grains.
- Your body’s risk of developing Type 2 diabetes can be reduced by eating plenty of whole grains (including lentils and chickpeas), fruit, vegetables and low-fat milk. These grains reduce blood glucose levels rising as much as they do after consuming high GI food such as rice (GI=45-104), potatoes (GI=54-101) or white bread (GI=67-87). Lentils and chickpeas have low GI levels (GI=18-52 for lentils and GI=36 for chickpeas).
- Lentil and chickpea grains are gluten free so are a great choice in the diets of people who need to avoid or minimise gluten consumption.
- Lentils and chickpeas are rich in protein so can be used as a whole meal for those wanting to reduce or eliminate their consumption of meat.
Environmentally friendly:
- Lentils and chickpeas naturally fertilise soils, by replenishing nitrogen, inputting to a sustainable cropping system
- Lentils are drought tolerant
- Lentils and chickpeas are not genetically modified
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FAQs
Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, which can improve heart health, reduce cholesterol levels and promote intestinal health. Fiber takes longer to digest and makes you feel satisfied longer, which is how it can help with weight loss and decrease your risk of developing diabetes or heart disease.
How much chia seeds should you eat a day? ›
Still, they can be safely eaten in amounts of 50 grams daily, which is about five tablespoons. Two tablespoons provide all of the nutritional benefits listed above. Soaked chia seeds have a gel-like texture.
Do you actually digest chia seeds? ›
The surface of chia seeds is delicate and easily breaks apart when exposed to moisture, so they are typically prepared with liquid foods (as seen with the recipe ideas below). In this way, they are absorbed and digested well in their whole form, unlike flax seeds.
What seeds should I eat every day? ›
Here are six of the healthiest seeds you can eat.
- Pumpkin Seeds. Blanchi Costela / Getty Images. ...
- Hemp Seeds. Erika Bunea / Getty Images. ...
- Chia Seeds. Westend61 / Getty Images. ...
- Sesame Seeds. BURCU ATALAY TANKUT / Getty Images. ...
- Flaxseeds. Veena Nair / Getty Images. ...
- Sunflower Seeds. La Bicicleta Vermella / Getty Images.
Both Chia seeds and Ginger have been shown in some studies to help suppress appetite. Feeling fuller for longer may lead to reduced calorie intake, which can contribute to weight loss, including fat loss in the belly area.
What not to mix with chia seeds? ›
Omega-3 fatty acids: Chia seeds contain a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids. It is known that high levels of omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding. Therefore, it is advised to avoid taking chia seeds with foods or supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
What does Mayo Clinic say about chia seeds? ›
Chia is rich in lignans and omega-3 fatty acids for cardiovascular health. These seeds also contain magnesium, an important mineral for brain, digestive tract and heart health. Add chia to cereal, yogurt, salads and smoothies, or use it make puddings for a nutrient-dense snack.
Are there any side effects to taking chia seeds? ›
Eating too many chia seeds may cause side effects, such as digestive issues, allergic reactions, or weight gain. In moderation, however, chia seeds can be a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. Chia seeds are edible seeds that come from a plant belonging to the mint family, called Salvia hispanica.
Are chia seeds good for the kidneys and liver? ›
KIDNEY STONES
Chia seeds are high in oxalate. If you have a history of oxalate stones, be sure to eat a high calcium food at the same time to decrease oxalate absorption. Talk with your kidney doctor or dietitian to see if you need to limit oxalates.
What is the healthiest way to eat chia seeds? ›
How to Eat Chia Seeds
- Mixing them with milk or fruit juice to make a chia pudding, which you can top with cacao nibs or fresh fruit.
- Creating an egg replacer to use in baked goods such as cakes or breads.
- Mixing them into muffin batter.
- Making a chia gel to add to homemade soups or smoothies.
All that fiber in chia seeds is mostly insoluble fiber, which doesn't dissolve in fluids. Instead, it absorbs fluids and helps create bulky, soft stool. So yes, chia seeds have the right kind of fiber to loosen your poop and give you some constipation relief.
Do chia seeds clean your colon? ›
Unique in their nutritional profiles, flax and chia seeds have fats and fiber that help promote healthy digestion and a clean colon. Fiber moves stool through your colon. It removes waste, toxic chemicals and other substances like cholesterol.
What are the top 3 healthiest seeds? ›
A few of the healthiest seeds include flax, hemp, pumpkin, poppy, sunflower, chia, sesame and pomegranate seeds, as well as quinoa and pine nuts. Adding a few servings of the healthiest seeds to your daily diet can have a huge impact on overall health and wellness.
Are there any negatives to eating sunflower seeds? ›
Side Effects of Sunflower Seeds:
Excess consumption of sunflower seeds may cause vomiting, stomach ache and constipation. People allergic to sunflower seeds may show symptoms like vomiting, rashes, breathing problem, swelling and itching around the mouth etc. Sunflower seeds are rich in calories.
What is the healthiest nut to eat? ›
Most nuts appear to be generally healthy. But some may have more heart-healthy nutrients than others. For example, walnuts contain high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Almonds, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts and pecans also appear to be quite heart healthy.
What happens if I drink chia seeds every morning? ›
Drinking a glass of soaked chia seeds first thing in the morning will help you feel fuller for longer, which will reduce your appetite and aid in weight loss.
Are chia seeds good for skin? ›
Chia seeds contain essential nutrients such as vitamin E, zinc, and niacinamide, which promote skin barrier repair and maintenance. These nutrients help strengthen the skin's protective barrier, improve moisture retention, and enhance its ability to detoxify and defend against external stressors.
Can I eat chia seeds without soaking? ›
Eating them dry can give a crunchy feeling and they're great in smoothies or baking. Just remember to drink enough water when you eat them dry so they don't soak up water in your stomach, which might make you feel thirsty. So, soaking chia seeds is good, but it's not compulsory. You can enjoy them dry too.
