Chickpeas and Lentils | Infographics (2024)

FAQs

Are chickpeas and lentils the same thing? ›

Chickpeas have the thin film covering, takes longer to cook. Lentils are smaller, the outer skin has been hulled, so faster to cook. Garbanzo or chickpeas become lentil when the outer cover is hulled it's called gram, used in India cooking ( channa Dal) also made into powder basen, used in Indian cooking fo pakora.

All tinned or dried beans, peas and lentils are pulses. They're great to add to your diet, because they are high in protein and fibre, low in fat and cheap to buy. That means they can save you money, help you manage your weight and lower your risk of bowel cancer.

Chickpeas are high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats and have a low GI. Potential benefits of chickpeas include helping control blood sugar, manage weight, and support heart and gut health. Chickpeas are versatile, so you can add them to many savory or sweet meals and snacks.

Ayana Habtemariam, MSW, RDN, LDN, is a registered dietitian, nutrition therapist, certified intuitive eating counselor, and macro social worker. Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a type of legume full of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates.

Legumes. Beans, lentils and chickpeas are notorious for their ability to cause bloating and wind thanks to their high fibre content. Despite this, you may not need to avoid them altogether. Many people tolerate canned legumes better than they do dried varieties.

Lentils are high in fibre, and complex carbohydrates, while low in fat and calories. Their high protein content makes lentils a perfect option for those looking to boost their protein intake. They are naturally gluten-free, making them a delicious staple in a gluten-free kitchen.

Lentils conceal their superpowers with a dowdy exterior. Pound for pound, raw lentils have more protein than steak. While not as protein-dense once cooked, they pack even more iron than meat, in addition to other vitamins and minerals.

In fact, many registered dietitians say that if you eat canned chickpeas regularly, your body will actually see a myriad of health benefits. Between the plant-based protein, fiber, and even the complex carbohydrates that are within these tiny legumes, having chickpeas in your diet is ultimately a good health move.

Experts found that even a single serving of chickpeas or pulses in a day can help in reducing belly fat and overall weight. This is because Kala Chana or black chickpeas is loaded with dietary fiber, which provides satiety.

Chickpeas contain a chemical called purine, and when broken down these purines produce excess uric acid, which results in gout. Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints.

Are chickpeas inflammatory? ›

No, chickpeas aren't considered inflammatory. Most healthcare providers consider chickpeas to be an anti-inflammatory food. This means they can help fight harmful inflammation in your body. They're also high in fiber and a good source of protein.

1. Sugary Foods. Most people already think of many of the foods in this category as unhealthy treats. Candy, soft drinks, and sweet desserts such as cake, chocolate, and ice cream are all expected entries on a list of carbs to avoid to lose weight.

Chickpeas can positively impact your high blood sugar due to their low GI, high fibre and protein content. However, consuming legumes as part of a balanced meal is essential, as excessive consumption or high-GI ingredients added to chickpea recipes can raise your blood sugar levels.

Lentils tend to have a more peppery and nutty taste compared to chickpeas. However, they still make a great alternative as they are a good source of protein and are similar enough in flavor and texture to easily fit into a variety of dishes.

Beans and Legumes

Packed with protein and fiber, beans are a nutritious choice for people on most kinds of diets. However, they and other legumes such as chickpeas and lentils are also high in carbohydrates. Eat them in moderation when on a low carb diet.

The chickpea or chick pea (Cicer arietinum) is an annual legume of the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae. Its different types are variously known as gram or Bengal gram, chhola, chhana, chana, or channa, garbanzo or garbanzo bean, or Egyptian pea. Chickpea seeds are high in protein.

While many of the complete proteins are meat-based, incomplete proteins are more vegetarian- and vegan-friendly. They include: Legumes (beans, peas, lentils).