Are You Overlooking Pulses?
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Beans, peas, chickpeas, and lentils-all in the pulse family of foods-can prevent weight gain or even help you lose a little weight, according to a Canadian study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. After reviewing 21 clinical trials with 940 men and women, researchers found that eating three-fourths cup of pulses daily led to a loss of 0.75 pounds over 6 months. While this may not sound like much, it can help ward off weight regain after a successful diet and prevent slow, creeping weight gain that’s common as we get older. Additionally, pulses are:
- Good sources of plant protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals.
- Filling, which helps stave off cravings and hunger.
- Naturally gluten-free, which makes them ideal ingredients in alternative flours for pastas and baked goods.
For salad, soup, veggie burger, casserole, pancake, dessert, and other pulse-packed recipes, visit pulses.org.