Chickpeas are a great food that has many nutritional values. The use of chickpeas dates back to ancient times, as evidenced by archaeological artifacts from the remains of this plant. It is widely used in cooking, it is made into flour, snacks that are rich in nutrients, it is also used as a stew. Of the nutrients it contains 58% carbohydrates, 23% protein and about 5% vegetable oil. Chickpeas contain a large percentage of iron, we can even say that it contains more iron than meat, and this mineral is not lost during cooking. In addition to these nutrients, chickpeas are a natural source of calcium, magnesium and copper. According to some scientific studies, chickpeas have been shown to play a significant role in binding calcium to the bones, in regulating heart rate, and in lowering cholesterol levels because they contain a lot of fiber. Chickpeas are mentioned in some ancient Arabic writings as a powerful aphrodisiac. Chickpeas also benefit from the elimination of harmful compounds – sulfates, which are used as a preservative in processed foods.
Chickpeas are a food that has incredible nutritional value. It is full of protein and contains a lot of fiber which gives a feeling of satiety even after a few hours. Let’s look at the 7 health benefits of consuming chickpeas.
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Chickpeas regulate blood pressure
To lower blood pressure, it is important to eat foods that are low in sodium, and chickpeas are just that. Chickpeas contain potassium, which is also important for normalizing blood pressure.
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Diabetes
Chickpeas help regulate blood sugar. Some scientific studies have shown that people with type 1 diabetes who eat a high fiber diet have lower blood glucose levels and type 2 diabetes can improve their blood sugar, lipids and insulin levels.
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Bone health
The iron, calcium, manganese, phosphates, magnesium and vitamin K contained in chickpeas contribute to the building and maintenance of bone structure, its health and bone strength. However, care should be taken with these minerals, because too much phosphorus and too little calcium can give the opposite result, ie weakening of the bones. It is important to maintain a normal dose of vitamin K, as its low levels can contribute to bone weakness which in turn can cause bone fractures. Adequate consumption of vitamin K is important because it acts as a modifier of the bone protein matrix, while improving calcium absorption and may reduce urinary calcium excretion.
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Weight control and satiety
Chickpeas help regulate weight and are great for weight loss thanks to the fiber they contain in large quantities. Regular consumption of chickpeas removes toxins from the intestines and liver. Chickpeas reduce appetite and maintain satiety for a long time, thus reducing total calorie intake. Due to its high fiber content, chickpeas help prevent constipation and promote regularity for a healthy digestive tract.
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Heart health
Chickpeas contain a lot of fiber, vitamins and minerals including potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, so it becomes an excellent source of nutrients that the heart needs to maintain its vitality and health. Chickpeas are rich in fiber that helps lower blood cholesterol intake, thus reducing the risk of heart disease.
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Cholesterol
Studies show that including chickpeas in the diet reduces the amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the blood. As already mentioned, цhickpeas are rich in fiber that helps lower blood cholesterol intake, thus reducing the risk of heart disease.
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Inflammations
Choline is a nutrient contained in chickpeas, it helps transmit nerve impulses, helps maintain the structure of cell membranes, helps absorb fat and reduces chronic inflammation. Choline is an essential nutrient that can be found in chickpeas, and in doing so helps in the movement of muscles, learning and memory, helps for good sleep.
According to many scientific studies, chickpeas as a plant food reduces the risk of overweight, diabetes, heart disease, helps maintain a healthy complexion and healthy hair, increases energy. The benefits of chickpeas are great, so if you have not eaten chickpeas before, it is time to include them in your daily diet.
