3. Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a type of legume, along with lentils, peas, beans and some nuts. They’re the main ingredient in hummus and can be eaten on their own, cooled in a salad or heated up in curries and stews. They’re a great source of plant-based protein and as such make a popular alternative to meat.
They’re rich in slow release carbs and studies have linked eating chickpeas with a lower risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes and digestive problems. Other studies suggest that a diet rich in chickpeas can also help to better regulate blood sugar and insulin levels and as such, can also play a beneficial role in weight management.
Chickpeas are also rich in antioxidant compounds that can help to protect our overall health.
Summary:
One cup of cooked chickpeas contains 19g of carbohydrates and they may help to protect against heart disease, type 2 diabetes and gut problems and may help with weight management.