Health Experts: The Surprising Health Benefits of Lentils

Posted By Airah Lynn Balingit on August 2023

Health Experts: The Surprising Health Benefits of Lentils

Lentils are one of the most versatile and nutritious legumes that you can add to your diet. They are rich in protein, fiber, iron, folate, and antioxidants, and they can help lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation. But did you know that lentils also have some surprising health benefits that you may not be aware of? Here are some of them:

- Lentils can boost your mood. Lentils contain tryptophan, an amino acid that is a precursor of serotonin, the neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and appetite. Serotonin is also known as the "happy hormone" because it can improve your emotional well-being and reduce stress. Eating lentils regularly can help you feel more positive and relaxed.

- Lentils can support your brain health. Lentils are a good source of choline, a nutrient that is essential for the synthesis of acetylcholine, another neurotransmitter that is involved in memory, learning, and cognition. Choline also helps maintain the structure and function of the brain cells and protects them from oxidative damage. Eating lentils can help you enhance your mental performance and prevent cognitive decline.

- Lentils can improve your skin health. Lentils are rich in zinc, a mineral that plays a vital role in skin health. Zinc helps regulate the production of sebum, the oil that lubricates and protects the skin. Zinc also helps heal wounds, fight infections, and reduce inflammation. Eating lentils can help you keep your skin clear, smooth, and healthy.

As you can see, lentils are not only delicious and filling, but they also have many health benefits that you may not have expected. If you want to enjoy these benefits, try to include lentils in your meals at least twice a week. You can cook them in soups, stews, salads, curries, or even make them into burgers or patties. Lentils are easy to prepare and store, and they come in different colors and varieties to suit your preferences. So what are you waiting for? Start eating more lentils today and see the difference in your health and happiness!