Health Benefits of Lentils (2024)

FAQs

Health Benefits of Lentils? ›

They are a good source of B vitamins, folate, iron, and potassium. They also contain high levels of protein and fiber. Lentils are relatively quick and easy to prepare, and their low cost makes them an accessible form of high quality protein for many people around the world.

They are a good source of B vitamins, folate, iron, and potassium. They also contain high levels of protein and fiber. Lentils are relatively quick and easy to prepare, and their low cost makes them an accessible form of high quality protein for many people around the world.

Eating more lentils may help people maintain a healthy weight or lose weight. Replacing energy-dense (or high calorie) foods with legumes such as lentils can help people prevent or manage obesity and lose weight. Research suggests that regularly eating lentils may help with the management and prevention of diabetes.

Lentils are highly nutritious, providing a concentrated source of protein, fiber, and several vitamins and minerals. Lentils are high in several nutrients that tend to be low in many American diets, like fiber, iron, magnesium, folate, and potassium.

Description & Health Benefits

Lentils are a nutritional powerhouse. A 1/2 cup serving is an excellent source of folate, fiber, and manganese, and a good source of protein, thiamin, iron, phosphorus, potassium, and copper. Folate is required to create DNA and other genetic material.

Lentils are rich in a type of fiber that helps your digestive system work as it should and fuels good bacteria in your gut. Fiber may also help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. “Fiber plays an important role in regulating our bowels and protecting the immune system,” says Homan.

Detox Value and Health Benefits of Lentils

Lentils are one of the most nutritious foods that cleanse the liver. In fact, their detox properties aren't the best thing about this particular legume.

Black Lentils (Beluga lentils)

Thanks to the robust flavor, these lentils pair well with meaty veggies and marinated proteins like mushrooms, tofu, and seitan. Best of all, black lentils are the most nutritious variety of lentils, boasting the highest amount of protein, plus high levels of calcium, potassium, and iron.

Lentils are a good source of potassium, however, too many lentils in the diet can cause hyperkalemia (symptoms may include vomiting, fatigue, irregular heartbeat and difficulty breathing) in people with poor kidney function.

In India, where roughly half of the world's lentils are consumed, cultivation dates back to 2500 B.C. Today, more than 50 different varieties are grown. Nearly every traditional Indian meal includes at least one lentil dish, and they are an important source of nutrients for millions of vegetarians on the subcontinent.

Why do Indians eat so much lentils? ›

Savory Indian stews are often served with rice, and that starchy base can be made more nutritious with the addition of lentils. Cooked lentils provide 12 grams of protein in just a half cup, as well as 8 grams of fiber, adding nutrient density to vegetable-forward dishes while keeping consumers feeling full for longer.

The best part is that black lentils are the most nutrient-dense type of lentil, including high quantities of calcium, potassium, iron, and protein. According to the USDA, a half cup of raw black lentils has 960 mg of potassium, 100 mg of calcium, 8 mg of iron, and 26g of protein.

Bottom line: Lentils and beans are both part of a healthy diet! They are very similar nutritionally and nutrient-dense: high in protein, fiber, and nutrients, and low in fat.

(You can even cook lentils in an Instant Pot.) In terms of how often you should be eating lentils, enjoying them a few times per week is ideal to reap all their amazing benefits.

Everyone's heard of tryptophan – an amino acid most commonly associated with post-Thanksgiving-turkey naps. But tryptophan is actually found in many protein-rich foods including lentils, and complex carbohydrates work with your metabolism to allow the tryptophan to work most effectively to help you sleep.

Lentils are high in fibre, and complex carbohydrates, while low in fat and calories. Their high protein content makes lentils a perfect option for those looking to boost their protein intake. They are naturally gluten-free, making them a delicious staple in a gluten-free kitchen.

Lentils and beans are rich in soluble fiber, which is the single best carbohydrate to help you burn belly fat. "Soluble fiber forms a thick gel when it binds with water in the body," Tracy said. "This gel that forms therefore slows digestion in the body, which keeps you feeling full for longer!

Overall, lentils are a highly nutritious food with various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. The fiber and protein content in lentils make them beneficial for weight management, blood sugar regulation, and supporting overall gut health.