RED LENTILS - Hmm!

Lentils are inexpensive, highly edible legumes. They are small, round, lens shaped beans that come in various texture, taste and colour such as green, brown, black, yellow and red. They are considered a staple in many cuisines globally. Amongst all lentils, the red has a sweet, distinct flavour. When the skin is removed the seeds are split in half. Amongst all varieties, the red is quickest and easiest to prepare. When cooked they create a smooth, puree - like consistency making them the perfect ingredient for soups, dal and other Indian cuisine. So here are some reasons to add them to your health treasury.

EXCELLENT SOURCE OF FIBER - 1 cup contains about 40 grams of carbohydrates, 15 grams being fiber alone. In every cup there are only 3.6 grams of sugar making it ideal to prevent spikes in sugar.

HIGH IN PROTEIN - 1 cup contains almost 18 grams of protein, which satisfies 32% of protein for men and 38% for women. Eaten together with other sources of plant- based protein like whole grains and black beans your body receives the required amount of amino acids.

VITAMIN B - They are superior in providing B- Vitamins. They are high in vitamin B6, pantothenic acid and thiamine. Cooked red lentils yields a whopping 358 grams of vitamin B-9, also known as folate. Folate is essential in synthesizing red blood cells and DNA to aid in energy metabolism.

AIDS WEIGHT LOSS - To have a healthy weight you must be mindful of calorie intake. Red lentils provide fiber and protein, two essentials for weight loss.

DECREASE HEART DISEASE RISKS - Red lentils contain a large amount of magnesium and folate, nutrients essential to reducing heart risks. Magnesium provides blood flow, oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Folate works on lowering homocysteine levels, a serious factor in heart disease. So, next time you get to the supermarket, RED LENTILS should be your first pick up.