10 February is World Pulses Day and at EDYPRO we couldn’t miss this opportunity to talk to you about one of the best components of our Mediterranean diet.
Although it is true that pulses do not usually appear among the recipe tips that are most popular on social networks, their use is closely linked to our culture.
Eating pulses should not only be an obligation, due to the high number of benefits they have for our health, but they should also become a trend. A trend that is here to stay on our plates. And if you are still not convinced, read on because, in this post that EDYPRO has prepared, you will find everything you need to know to love these foods.
4 REASONS TO LOVE PULSES
- THE VARIETY
For a start, there is a wide range to choose from: lentils, chickpeas, broad beans, peas, beans… And with so much variety, it is much easier to prepare different recipes and not get tired of them. Now, for example, it is very fashionable to always have hummus in the fridge. And it’s not surprising since, as well as being delicious and an ideal complement to your main dishes, it also gets you out of any trouble and you can make it from almost any legume. However, if hummus is not your thing, you can also go for more traditional options and make stews, creams, meatballs or even hamburgers. The options are almost endless.
- THEY IMPROVE OUR HEALTH AND OUR SOIL
As we have already mentioned in the previous paragraphs, pulses have a great nutritional value and this is mainly due to the complex carbohydrates, fibre and vegetable proteins they contain. In addition to vitamins and minerals. As if this were not enough, according to a review of studies published in the journal “Advances in Nutrition”, if you eat them regularly in your diet you will have a lower risk of suffering from cardiovascular diseases, obesity, hypertension or cancer, among other pathologies.
And it doesn’t end there, because as well as being beneficial for our health, they also have a great positive impact on agriculture as they are capable of improving soil quality. This is achieved thanks to the diversification of crops on farms, and legumes also improve crop rotations. This is a widespread technique among farmers to avoid diseases, weeds and pests, among other things.
- ECONOMICAL
You only have to go round your local market to see that a kilo of chickpeas or lentils costs less than two euros. And with this amount you can make several dishes on your weekly menu, so it is more than cost-effective. Pulses are the base of the food pyramid, which is why they are recommended to be eaten at least two to three times a week.
- THEY ARE NOT FATTENING
More and more nutritionists and dieticians are clear that these foods are an indispensable aid for those who aim to lose fat. In addition, they provide a great feeling of satiety, which is essential in any diet.
With all these advantages, it is not surprising that in recent years, according to the FAO, their consumption has grown considerably, with Spain being the European country that makes most use of them. The inhabitants of Aragon and Cantabria are the most aware of their use.
From EDYPRO we hope that all these reasons have convinced you to include more pulses in your daily life.
On the other hand, if you have crops and want to plan a more sustainable agriculture, don’t forget that this group of crops can be your great ally. If you need more information, we will be happy to help you.