Nutrient Overview
 
Calories: Moderate
Protein: High
Fat: Low
Saturated fat: Low
Cholesterol: None
Carbohydrates: High
Fiber: Very high
Sodium: Moderate
Main vitamin: Vitamin B6 and folate
Main mineral: Iron, Zinc and Magnesium
 
 
Health Benefits
 
Lentils are small and disk shape legumes high in fiber and protein and low in fat. Technically, lentils are considered a grain legume called pulse, which means they are harvested for their seeds.
 
As such they are an excellent source of Vitamin B, folate and iron. They come in brown, reddish orange or brownish green and the good thing about lentils is that, unlike beans, they don’t have sulfur which means you cannot get any gas form consuming them. 
 
 
Buying & Preparing Lentils
 
When choosing lentils look for those that are smooth-skinned, uniform and evenly colored. Also, make sure they are clean and free of stones. Like beans, you want to Avoid buying them in bulk especially those that have been exposed to air or light. If you see tiny holes in lentils avoid them as well for that means tiny insects have made their way through.
 
To maintain their nutritional value, they are best served cooked with meat, milk, cheese, rice or pasta. Serving them with these combinations will highlight the protein in lentils. To prepare lentils, wash them in water and throw away those that float or are damaged.
 
 
How To Store Lentils
 
When storing lentils, keep in moisture-proof containers in a cool, dark cabinet. Make sure they are protected from heat, light and especially insects.

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