Benefits of hummus.
- Super nutritious and packed with Plant-Based Protein
Hummus is a great source of plant-based protein. In addition, hummus includes iron, folate, phosphorus and B vitamins, all of which are important for vegetarians and vegans, as they may not get enough from their diet.
- Rich in ingredients proven to help fight Inflammation
Hummus is packed with healthy ingredients that may help combat chronic inflammation. Olive oil is one of them. It’s rich in powerful antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory benefits. In particular, virgin olive oil contains the antioxidant oleocanthal, which is believed to have similar anti-inflammatory properties as common anti-inflammatory medicines. Similarly, sesame seeds, which make up tahini, may help reduce markers of inflammation in the body like IL-6 and CRP, which are elevated in inflammatory diseases like arthritis. Moreover, many studies have shown that consuming a diet rich in legumes like chickpeas reduces blood markers of inflammation.
- High in fiber that promotes digestive health and feeds your good gut Bacteria
Hummus is a great source of dietary fiber, which can improve digestive health. Hummus can help keep you regular. This is because dietary fiber helps soften and add bulk to stools so that they are easier to pass. What’s more, dietary fiber also helps feed the healthy bacteria that live in your gut. One study found that adding 200 grams of chickpeas (or raffinose fiber from chickpeas) to the diet for three weeks helped promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, such as bifidobacterial, while suppressing the growth of harmful bacteria.
- May help control blood sugar levels
Hummus is made mostly from chickpeas, which have a low glycemic index (GI). The glycemic index is a scale that measures the ability of foods to raise blood sugar. Foods with a high GI value are quickly digested and then absorbed, causing a sharp spike and fall in blood sugar levels. Conversely, foods with a low GI value are slowly digested and then absorbed, causing a slower and more balanced rise and fall in blood sugar levels. Hummus is also a great source of soluble fiber and healthy fats. Chickpeas are rich in protein, resistant starch and antinutrients, which slow down the digestion of carbs.
- Promotes weight loss and helps you maintain a healthy body weight
Interestingly, according to a national survey, people who regularly consumed chickpeas or hummus were 53% less likely to be obese. They also had a lower BMI and their waist size was an average of 2.2 inches (5.5 cm) smaller than people who did not regularly consume chickpeas or hummus. It is a great source of dietary fiber, which has been shown to boost levels of the fullness hormones cholecystokinin (CCK), peptide YY and GLP-1. Moreover, dietary fiber has also been shown to reduce levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin.
- Great for those with Intolerances, as It’s naturally Gluten-, nut- and dairy-free
People who suffer from food allergies and intolerances struggle to find foods they can eat that won’t cause uncomfortable symptoms. It is naturally gluten-, nut- and dairy-free, which means it suits people who are affected by common conditions like celiac disease, nut allergies and lactose intolerance. Additionally, note that chickpeas are high in raffinose, a type of FODMAP. People who are sensitive to FODMAPs, such as those with irritable bowel syndrome, should be careful not to overindulge in hummus.
Source:
https://www.themediterraneandish.com/how-to-make-hummus/
https://feelgoodfoodie.net/recipe/best-hummus/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/is-hummus-healthy
https://floridadailypost.com/15-health-benefits-hummus-according-science/
