Hummus

Hummus. A common dip, hummus is usually made with chickpeas, olive oil, lemon, garlic, and tahini (sesame seed paste). Originally from the Middle East, it is now widely accessible in stores and supermarkets, frequently with variations on the traditional recipe, including hummus with roasted pepper or caramelized onion. It is high in fiber, plant-based protein, and healthy fats.

HUMMUS

A versatile dish, hummus can be used as the ideal sandwich spread or as a creamy dip on its own. A mainstay of Middle Eastern cooking, hummus is made with chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, lemon, and spices. However, it has transcended cultural boundaries to gain popularity as a health meal.

1. beneficial fiber source

Hummus, which is made from garbanzo beans, or chickpeas, is naturally high in fiber. According to studies, the kind of fiber found in chickpeas improves intestinal health by increasing the quantity of good bacteria in our digestive tracts.

2. assist in regulating blood sugar levels

Because they are high in protein, resistant starch, and fiber, beans and pulses like chickpeas slow down the rate at which we digest them. This indicates that they release their energy more gradually and have a low glycaemic index (GI). Consuming more of these low-GI foods may help with blood sugar management by stabilizing blood sugar levels.

3. beneficial to the heart

In addition to the heart-healthy monounsaturated fats found in sesame seeds and olive oil, hummus also contains the fiber-rich chickpeas. Monounsaturated fats, particularly olive oil, may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, whereas diets high in legumes, such as chickpeas, may help lower low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels.
Always read the label if you use store-bought hummus because some brands use cheaper alternatives, including sunflower or rapeseed oil, in place of olive oil.

4. weight control

A lower body mass index, a smaller waist circumference, and a lower weight all seem to be linked to eating chickpeas on a regular basis. Amylose, a type of carbohydrate that makes up one-third of chickpeas, is partially to blame for this. Because this starch is more resistant to our digestive enzymes, foods with higher amylose content are less digestible.

5. Packed with anti-inflammatory compounds

The basic components of hummus, such as chickpeas, sesame seeds, and olive oil, have anti-inflammatory and other health benefits. Virgin olive oil is actually thought to have an anti-inflammatory effect comparable to that of ibuprofen.

6. Has Important Nutrients and Antioxidants

Chickpeas, the primary component of hummus, are rich in minerals with anti-inflammatory qualities and antioxidants. For instance, by regulating the production of white blood cells, researchers have discovered that olive oil helps reduce inflammation, which strengthens your immune system.

7. Enhances Gut Health

Fiber is also good for the digestive system. Dietary fiber that contains both soluble and insoluble fiber helps maintain regular bowel motions and makes you feel fuller. By slowing down digestion, soluble fiber lessens the body’s capacity to absorb carbohydrates and fats from food. As it moves through your digestive system, insoluble fiber gives your stool more volume and keeps you from becoming constipated.

Summary

A nutritious and adaptable snack is hummus. It provides protection against a number of illnesses and is nutrient-dense. Making your own at home is simple, and the grocery store offers a wide variety of tastes, including red velvet, chocolate mint, coconut curry, roasted garlic, and black bean. Just make sure the store-bought variety is free of additional preservatives, inflammatory oils like soybean, and added sweeteners.