Chickpeas are an excellent source of vegetable proteins and very important nutrients for our body

Chickpeas are a food with a very ancient history, already well known among the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians—and now chickpeas are cultivated all over the world.

These are legumes with incredible beneficial properties and an extremely delicate flavor, suitable to accompany many dishes.

These legumes are, first of all, an excellent source of vegetable proteins, but also of mineral salts—in particular calcium, iron, phosphorus, and potassium.

As if that were not enough, chickpeas are also very rich in iron, whose absorption, however, needs to be favored by the presence of a source of vitamin C.

These that we have briefly listed here below are just some of the many benefits that derive from the habitual consumption of chickpeas and legumes.

via Healthline

The main beneficial properties of chickpeas

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Chickpeas are a medium-calorie food as 3.5 ounces (100 g) of cooked chickpeas supply about 120 calories to our body.

The proteins and fibers contained in these legumes can help keep your appetite under control because, by working in synergy, they slow down digestion and provide a sense of fullness.

Being rich in protein, they represent an excellent vegetarian alternative for those who do not eat meat.

In addition to keeping one's appetite at bay, chickpeas can also help control weight, strengthen bones, and muscles.

In addition, being fairly low in calories, they provide fewer calories when compared to the number of nutrients they contain - which is why their consumption can promote weight loss.

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Some nutritional studies have suggested that the quality of protein in chickpeas is better than that of other types of legumes.

This is because chickpeas contain almost all the essential amino acids, with the exception of methionine. For this reason, they are not considered to be a complete source of protein.

To make sure you get all the essential amino acids in your diet, it is important to pair chickpeas with another protein source, such as whole grains.

Chickpeas can also promote digestion thanks to their high fiber content which helps prevent constipation and facilitates proper intestinal transit.

These legumes contain many nutrients, including vitamin K, iron, phosphate, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and other vitamins that improve bone structure and strength.

Try to avoid excessive consumption of chickpeas if you have abdominal bloating or suffer from intestinal problems.

Moreover, if you opt for canned chickpeas, always remember to rinse them well under running water, in order to make them more digestible and less salty.

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