WORLD PULSES DAY SPECIAL
The United Nations has declared 10th February as World Pulses Day. The special day was announced by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations to recognize the importance of pulses as a global food. Pulses as a food group includes all dry beans, peas and lentils like dals, rajmah, chana, kidney beans, etc. Indian cuisine features pulses in a wide variety of recipes from the everyday dal to the exotic chhole bhature. Packed with health benefits, pulses provide more than just tasty fare —
☆ Pulses are a great source of plant-based protein.
☆ Low in fat and contain no cholesterol, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
☆ Low in sodium.
☆ A good source of iron. To help optimize the absorption of iron in our bodies from pulses, combine them with foods containing vitamin C (lemon juice on lentil curry for example).
☆ High in potassium, which supports heart health and plays an important role in digestive and muscular functions.
☆ High fibre food, necessary for supporting digestive health and helping to reduce the risks of cardiovascular diseases.
☆ Can be stored for a long time and therefore can help to increase the diversity of diets, especially in developing countries.
☆ Low glycaemic index food. They help to stabilize blood sugar and insulin levels, making them suitable for people with diabetes and ideal for weight management.
☆ Naturally gluten-free. This makes them an ideal option for those with gluten sensitivity or coeliac disease.
Thus the punch line is “Go ahead and include a variety of pulses in your diet and reap these health benefits”!!!
