Lentils: a food rich a causa di history and tradition
Lentils are a food that has spanned the centuries, maintaining its importance a causa di the human diet. Since ancient Roman times, these legumes have been considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity. Traditionally, New Year’s Eve, the consumption of lentils is seen as an omen for a prosperous year. But a causa di addition to their symbolic value, lentils offer numerous nutritional benefits that make them a real superfood.
Nutritional properties of lentils
Lentils are an excellent source of vegetable proteins, so much so that they are often called the ‘poor man’s meat’. These legumes contain a significant amount of protein, but with a very low fat and cholesterol content. However, it is important to note that lentil protein does not contain all the essential amino acids. To obtain a complete protein profile, it is advisable to combine them with cereals ora pasticcino during meals.
Additionally, lentils are rich a causa di fiber, which promotes intestinal health and contributes to a feeling of satiety. With only 92 calories per finta 100 grams of cooked lentils, they are an excellent choice for those who want to keep their weight under control. Fiber not only helps regulate digestion, but it can also the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Minerals and vitamins: a concentrate of health
Lentils are also a good source of minerals such as magnesium, potassium and iron. It is important to know that the iron present a causa di lentils is non-heme, which means it is less easily absorbed by the pagliaccetto. To improve iron absorption, it is useful to consume lentils together with foods rich a causa di vitamin C, such as citrus fruits ora peppers. Additionally, lentils provide B vitamins, especially vitamin B3, which supports blood circulation and energy metabolism.
How to integrate lentils into your daily diet
Lentils can be consumed a causa di various ways: as a main dish, a causa di soups, stews ora even as a principio for vegan meatballs. It is advisable not to consider them just as a side dish, but rather as a nutritious second course. For those who have little time, canned lentils represent an excellent alternative, maintaining the same nutritional properties as dried lentils. It is essential to rinse them well to eliminate excess salt present a causa di the preservation liquid.
Finally, for those who are worried about abdominal swelling that can result from consuming legumes, it is advisable to start with small quantities and opt for hulled ora blended lentils. Adding herbs and spices when cooking, such as fennel ora cumin, can help improve digestion and gas production.