What are the properties of chickpeas?

When it comes to legumes, few are as famous around the world as the chickpea, which goes by many other names, including garbanzo bean, Bengal gram or Egyptian pea, depending on where you’re eating them. These small, pale-brown beans have been in active cultivation for the better part of 7,000 years, making them the oldest and most relied upon legumes on the planet.

The reason chickpeas have withstood the test of time as a foodstuff is its condensed nutritional supply and the ease with which chickpeas can be grown, even in harsh conditions. Providing protein, dietary fiber, iron, magnesium, folate, phosphorous and a number of essential vitamins, along with a rich blend of antioxidants and active components, chickpeas are a powerhouse of healthy eating.

let’s dig into the health benefits of chickpeas.

Protein Boost

Arguably the most significant aspect of chickpeas is the high protein content, making it an ideal option for vegetarians who want to ensure they have proper nutrient intake. That being said, chickpeas are an important source of the proteins needed for growth and development, as well as proper healing and repair throughout the body.

Antioxidant Properties

There are a number of antioxidant compounds that can be found in chickpeas, including polyphenols, phytonutrients, beta-carotene and key vitamins, which can reduce oxidative stress in the body and prevent chronic disease. Antioxidants seek out free radicals, the dangerous byproducts of cellular metabolism, which can cause healthy cells to mutate. These antioxidants can help protect the body from cancer, coronary heart disease, macular degeneration, and even cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Improved Digestion

Digestion is the starting point for health in the human body, so ensuring that your gastrointestinal system is working properly is key. The high levels of dietary fiber found in chickpeas can help to bulk up your stool content and keep your bowel movements regular, while also eliminating inflammation, cramping, bloating and constipation. This can also improve nutrient digestion and ensure that you’re getting all of the nutritional value from your food.

Diabetes Prevention

Blood sugar management is important for everyone, not only those who are suffering from diabetes, and chickpeas has shown a strong ability to regulate blood sugar levels through the optimization of digestion. This is believed to come directly from the soluble fiber levels found in chickpeas, in addition to a solid and balanced nutrient profile. By ensuring that our body maintains normal levels of insulin and blood sugar, chickpeas can prevent the development