What do lentils do for your body

They have a rich, earthy texture and will give any dish a boost of fiber and nutrients. They can add thickness and bulk to a recipe.

Because of their hearty texture and protein content, they are sometimes used as an alternative for meat. Here are a few ways to incorporate cooked lentils:. The contents of this website are for educational purposes and are not intended to offer personal medical advice. You should seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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Skip to content The Nutrition Source. Harvard T. The Nutrition Source Menu. Search for:. Source Of Protein Folate Fiber both insoluble and soluble Iron Potassium Manganese Lentils and health Lentils are low in sodium and saturated fat, and high in potassium, fiber, folate, and plant chemicals called polyphenols that have antioxidant activity.

Purchase The most common types of lentils available in the U. Storage Dried lentils keep for one year in a tightly sealed container in a dark, dry, cool location. Make Before cooking, place the lentils in a strainer and sort through them to check for and remove small stones or debris. Then rinse well.

Lentils also provide selenium. Selenium may decrease the rates that tumors grow. T cells kill disease. The NIH note that selenium may help reduce rates of colorectal, prostate, lung, bladder, skin, esophageal, and gastric cancers. However, scientists must carry out further research into the cancer preventing benefits of selenium, as studies on the mineral have, so far, produced mixed results. A meta-analysis of articles suggests that fiber may also have links to a lowered risk of colorectal cancer.

Iron deficiency is a common cause of fatigue. Not getting enough iron in the diet can affect how efficiently the body uses energy.

There are two types of iron: heme and nonheme. Meat and fish provide heme iron. Nonheme iron is an essential form of iron for people who do not consume meat for health or other reasons. However, the body cannot absorb nonheme iron as well as heme iron. So, try combining it with vitamin C rich foods, such as citrus, berries, and peppers, which will improve absorption. Fiber in the diet helps to increase the feeling of fullness and reduce appetite. The high fiber content in lentils also helps keep the digestive tract healthy, which in turn, prevents constipation and promotes regular bowel movements.

Everybody loves discovering new and delicious foods, especially when a food not only tastes good but is incredibly healthy for you. What if such a food also had the versatility of being able to form things like burgers , salads , and soups? If that's what you're searching for then look no further than lentils because that's where it's at. Here are five health benefits of lentils that will convince you to start eating them today. Lentils are one of the most fiber-rich foods you can find, having high contents of both soluble and insoluble fiber.

Given that most people have trouble getting even a fraction of that with their on-the-go college life diets, lentils could potentially be total lifesavers in the fiber department. Then, once they cool off a bit, add 'em to your salad! Make a lentil soup or stew. Like soup but wish it filled you up? Go with a classic lentil soup —all the pros of hot soup, plus filling protein and fiber to actually keep you full long after you've finished.

Combine uncooked lentils with your favorite veggies, herbs, and stock of choice, and let it all simmer away until cooked. Use them as a meat substitute. However you choose to make lentils, you're bound to get a major nutritional boost. And that's something all eaters can agree is definitely a major plus. Your official excuse to add "OOD" ahem, out of doors to your cal.

Become an Insider. Enter Email Address. Facebook Pinterest Twitter Youtube Instagram. M ove over, chickpeas: Lentils are officially the coolest legume. The humble lentil has officially transcended soup and is popping up everywhere—from gluten-free pastas and chips to pet food.

The United Nations once named them the food of the year. Even Prince George eats them. Related Stories.