Marco Crisciotti If you want to eat healthy, spend less and live longer, lentils should be a staple of your diet! They are rich in proteins, iron and antioxidants, cost very little and keep for a long time. Furthermore, several studies show that regularly eating lentils has a lower risk of contracting cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. We'll reveal how to integrate them into your meals in a simple and delicious way.
Can you be well without costing an arm and a leg? No doubt! Lentils are the proof positive. Those tiny legumes aren’t just incredibly inexpensive and long-lasting, they’re also teeming with health benefit. To eat them regularly is associated with reduced numbers of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. But no one’s really discussing much about them.
A complete food
Lentils are the ultimate superfood, and accessible to all. Packed with protein, fiber, and iron, lentils are ideal for the balanced-dieter looking to minimize meat intake without giving up nutrients. They also contain plenty of antioxidants and phytochemicals that battle cell aging and support the immune system.
…And available to everyone
Okay, enough of the praise. Now let’s address the best part: how much do they cost? Would you believe that for a few dollars, you can enjoy a healthy, filling, and versatile meal? Believe it. Unlike other protein foods, lentils don’t require refrigeration, stay on the shelf for a long period, and cook up fast without soaking (such as red or split lentils). This makes them a fantastic choice for anyone wishing to eat healthily without having to spend excessive time cooking or money on extra food bills.
Health benefits
Numerous studies confirm lentils’ incredible health worth. Research has shown that legume consumption on a daily basis is related to the reduction of type 2 diabetes risk and high blood pressure. It also proves the relationship between legume consumption and blood pressure level change. Other research shows that adopting lentils (and plant-based nutrition, in general) can improve life expectancy and quality of life.
Even with these advantages, lentils are usually underrated. Maybe it’s because they’re always paired with classic dishes, or maybe they’re perceived as being too plain for the modern age. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Lentils are amazingly versatile, and they can be used for everything from rich soups to veggie meatballs, and even vegan burgers that can compete with their meaty counterparts.
Another advantage is their digestibility. Compared to other legumes, lentils are lighter and do not lead to bloating, especially when cooked with the right spices. Spices like ginger, bay leaves, cumin, and turmeric not only flavor them but also facilitate their digestion by the body.
Diet tips
It is simple to incorporate lentils into your daily meals. You can substitute half of meat’s space with half-lentil soup or mix them with main courses and salads to add nutritional value without extra expense. Dahl, an Indian lentil-based dish filled with spices and proteins, in India or in Middle Eastern food in the form of fresh salads and various hummus preparations is all that the inclusion of lentils has to offer along with them.
But the question is actually: why aren’t they popular yet? Perhaps because they’re not marketed by large food corporations? Or because their plain appearance doesn’t stand out? The truth is, lentils are one of those foods that need to be rediscovered, not just because of their affordability but also because of the long-term benefits that they offer.
Short answer: if you’d like to perform a good turn for your wallet as well as your body, start making more space in your kitchen for lentils. Your body (and your bank statement) will thank you.
