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Written By: Editorial Team | Published : September 11, 2015 5:29 PM IST
Ever felt like you are running out of energy way too soon? Probably your diet lacks enough nutrition. A great and effective way to take care of this problem is by adding some healthy pigeon peas to your diet. They are a great source of energy and should be taken on a regular basis in order to keep you fit and energised all the time. Pigeon peas or whole arhar is used often in the popular baked beans that you enjoy with toast for breakfast. Here are some reasons why you should stock up on pigeon peas next time you buy groceries.
Rich in dietary fibre
As per the USDA nutrition value chart, 100gms of pigeon peas contains 60% dietary fibre and hence prove beneficial in stimulating digestion and relieve you of constipation. Foods rich in dietary fibres have many health benefits, including lowering cholesterol, aiding weight loss and reducing inflammations.
Powerhouse of calcium
Pigeon peas are rich in calcium as compared to other legumes [1]. Calcium aids bone development and strengthens them. This also makes pigeon peas an excellent option for pregnant ladies for bone and muscle development of the fetus. Calcium also boosts metabolism, thus aiding weight loss. You can eat calcium rich foods to lose weight.
Great source of zinc
The high content of zinc in pigeon peas helps fix damaged skin cells and is important for healthy skin, hair, and nails. Studies indicate that low zinc levels can because of maternal morbidity and risk to fetuses. Zinc also helps in getting rid of toxins from the body, thereby preventing fat accumulation.
Also packs in folate
100g of mature raw pigeon peas provide 114% (76% for pregnant women) of the daily requirement of folate, says Neelanjana Singh which is required for the proper development of embryos during pregnancy.
Eat it for protein
Proteins help provide the body the energy required for everyday functions. It not just keeps your heart healthy but also helps in keeping the skin and hair nourished. A high protein diet and reducing carbohydrates also aid weight loss. Here s why proteins are beneficial to your health.
Healthy substitute for meat
Pigeon pea is also low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium. This makes pigeon pea like other legumes--a healthy substitution for meats. In combination with grains, pigeon peas constitute a well-balanced human diet.
It has antimicrobial properties
Another amazing benefit that one can derive from pigeon peas is that it helps in killing worms found in your intestines. Isn t that amazing! Intestinal worms tend to be a huge concern among all those who live in conditions that are not hygienic. In fact, it occurs in children the most. Once pigeon peas are inside the body, they fight all worms that feed on the nutrients and heal your body completely. If you add pigeon peas to your diet, you will surely be free from all kinds of diseases that are related to the intestinal tract.
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