Chickpeas are a legume consumed practically all over the world, which in addition to being very nutritious has incredible properties. It is a seed of the herbaceous plant (Cicer arietinum) native to the East, and cultivated in ancient times by Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. The Latin name "Cicer"comes from the Greek kikis y means strength, energy and vigor, referring to its energetic properties, while the term "arietinum"refers to the shape of the seed, similar to the head of a ram.
What are its properties?
Chickpeas are rich in vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, and they contain phosphorus, iron, calcium, potassium, sodium, and zinc.
- They help prevent diabetes: their consumption helps control blood sugar levels reducing the risk of diabetes. They have a large amount of soluble fiber that helps regulate blood sugar levels by optimizing digestion.
- They promote weight loss: and by this I do not mean that by the mere fact of eating chickpeas we are going to lose weight. What is certain is that they are satiating, due to their high fiber content, which will help us eat less.
- Our digestion will improve: the high amount of fiber helps better intestinal health. Avoiding colic, bloating and constipation.
- Good for the heart: Chickpeas help reduce the level of LDL cholesterol ("bad cholesterol") in the blood, which also helps prevent atherosclerosis and heart attacks.
- It is a good diuretic: helping to eliminate excess salts in the body.
- Beneficial for people suffering from hypertension: thanks to their potassium content, they improve circulation, regulate blood pressure and are especially suitable for those suffering from hypertension.
- Strengthens our immune system: chickpeas contain zinc, an essential element to strengthen the immune system and to metabolize proteins.
- Good During Pregnancy: Chickpeas contain folate, a B-group vitamin closely related to fetal development. Low folate levels are closely related to neural tube defects and other complications in the birth of babies.
How many calories do chickpeas have?
Chickpeas are a nutritious food with an average of calories: 100 grams of cooked chickpeas (dried chickpeas boiled in distilled water without adding salt) provide our body with about 120 calories.
They are a very healthy food, like the milky chickpea The Pantry D´Lujo,a very tender Galician chickpea, and one of the most appreciated by gourmets.
Have you tried it yet?
You can find it, of course, in MadeinSpain Store.
AUTHOR: Ana Gómez, graduate in Chemistry, Biochemistry and WSET3 sommelier. CEO of Perfectanino.
