Pulses & Legumes:: Why they are SuperFoods??
Pulses have been very important in the diet of human beings since they settled in one place and started farming. In our dishes, we use a wide variety of pulses, such as
- Green Gram
- Red Gram
- Bengal Gram
- Black Gram
- Red Lentil
Although there are different cooking methods in different parts of the world, pulses are dutifully used in all parts of the eastern countries.
About Pulses
Pulses are high in mineral salts such as calcium and iron. If we take a small number of pulses a day, we can get some of the essential salts needed for our body. Calcium is a nutrient that is important for all of us, especially for bones. Adequate iron is needed in moderation for blood circulation. For those who want to keep their nerves and skin healthy adequate amounts of pulses should be consumed. Therefore those who consume more rice in their diet should consume pulses in moderation.
About Legumes
In addition to cereals, legumes contain 20 to 25% more protein. Protein in Legumes is also higher than protein in fish, eggs, and meat. Protein in legumes contains a wide variety of amino acids. The nutritional value of meat products is good if it contains the right type of amino acids.
Cereals are low in the amino acid lysine. This is why the protein value of whole grains is so low. But this lysine amino acid is high in legumes.
There are so many varieties of legumes which we can use in our daily meals or as snacks, which are packed full of nutrients. But the consumption should be in the proper form.
Know the Nutritive Value of Pulses & Legumes
Convenient Consumption of Pulse and legumes in the diet
If we take raw pulse/Legumes i.e., uncooked, it contains ingredients that are not easily digested. Green Gram is easily digested compared with any other pulses.
Some of the major combinations of meals with a pack of Nutrients are
- We can prepare Kichidi with Raw Rice along with Pulses (Red Lentil).
- Can also prepare Pongal with Raw Rice along with Pulses (Green Gram Dal).
- One of the most popular combinations (Jeera Rice) along with Legumes (Rajma).
- Poori with Chole Masala (Chickpeas).
In the above dishes, we are taking the combination of Carbohydrates and proteins. As rice and wheat are fully loaded with Carbs whereas pulses and legumes are fully loaded with Proteins and Minerals. So make sure you have a perfect meal full of nutrients.