When you think of ways to get protein into your diet, you may automatically consider things like meat, eggs, and dairy. But what about if you want to eat something plant-based? Spoiler alert: there’s much more out there than just beans. Vegans and Eastern cuisines know what we’re talking about: lentils—something that is sorely missing from many Western diets. Here are some reasons why you should incorporate more lentils into your life if you don’t already.
Protein
One of the three macronutrients, protein plays a key role in helping grow and maintain body tissue as well as fuel your body. Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, with 18 grams of protein in one cup of cooked lentils.
Polyphenols
Lentils are also packed full of polyphenols, an organic compound that helps treat or prevent weight management difficulties, diabetes, neurodegenerative disease, and cardiovascular diseases.
Iron
One cup of lentils has about a third of your daily iron requirements, which is critical for helping maintain your blood’s health.
Fiber
Another important type of food that many people don’t get enough of—but lentils have plenty of—is fiber, which helps keep your digestion at its best and is great for healthy weight maintenance.
