Why Are Lentils Bad for You? Nutritional Benefits of Legumes (2024)

FAQs

Why Are Lentils Bad for You? Nutritional Benefits of Legumes? ›

Lentils include antinutrients, such as trypsin inhibitors and phytic acid, which prevent some nutrients, proteins and amino acids from being absorbed. Phytates are compounds that hinder minerals in food from being absorbed into our bodies.

Risks of Eating Lentils

Lentils are a healthy choice for most people and aren't associated with significant health risks. However, since they are so high in fiber, people who aren't used to eating fiber-rich foods may experience bloating and gas after consuming lentils, especially in large portions.

Overall, lentils are a highly nutritious food with various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. The fiber and protein content in lentils make them beneficial for weight management, blood sugar regulation, and supporting overall gut health.

Lectins. Lectins are a family of proteins that may constitute up to 10% of the total protein content of legumes ( 15 ). They resist digestion and may affect the cells lining your intestinal tract. One well-studied lectin is phytohemagglutinin, which is found in red kidney beans.

Lentils are rich in a type of fiber that helps your digestive system work as it should and fuels good bacteria in your gut. Fiber may also help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. “Fiber plays an important role in regulating our bowels and protecting the immune system,” says Homan.

Urad dal or black lentil is one of the most nutritious pulses known to mankind. Low in fat and calories, Urad dal helps to improve digestion.

1. Avocados. Avocados are often sought after for their creamy texture and satiating taste. But they are also powerhouses when it comes to fighting inflammation.

Milk, cheese, and yogurt are good sources of nutrition, but they contain a protein that may irritate tissues around your joints. Foods to consider as non-inflammatory substitutes include spinach, nut butter, tofu, beans, lentils, and quinoa.

Whole30 doesn't allow beans based on the idea that they contain "anti-nutrients" like phytates. Phytates are compounds found in plants that can potentially block the body's absorption of important minerals like magnesium, iron, and calcium.

Can you eat too many lentils? ›

Lentils are frequently cooked with strong spices, which can cause indigestion in some people. Lentils are a good source of potassium, however, too many lentils in the diet can cause hyperkalemia (symptoms may include vomiting, fatigue, irregular heartbeat and difficulty breathing) in people with poor kidney function.

Smaller beans like adzuki, lentils, mung beans and peas digest more easily. Pinto, kidney, navy, black-eyed peas, garbanzo, lima, and black beans are harder to digest and should be eaten only occasionally. Soybeans and black soybeans are the most difficult beans to digest.

Scientific studies have definitively linked a diet high in legumes with a lower risk of developing obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, or strokes. As a matter of fact, eating legumes every day can effectively treat these diseases in people who already have them.

Due to their high fiber content, people with certain digestive disorders may need to limit or avoid eating lentils. Over half of their content is carbohydrates, so lentils are not considered keto-friendly.

If you have been diagnosed with an autoimmune or thyroid disease or believe you have a leaky gut, you should avoid these inflammatory foods: Grains and pseudo-grains include wheat, barley, rye, quinoa, buckwheat, chia seeds, and more. Legumes such as lentils, peanuts, chickpeas, and soybeans.

Legumes contain compounds that some people refer to as antinutrients. These compounds protect the plant from being eaten by animals or insects and from infections. However, when humans eat foods containing these compounds, they can bind to essential minerals and prevent the body from absorbing them.

The Bottom Line. Lentils are a nutritious food that's low-fat and high in protein and fiber. While they make a delicious addition to a soup, stew or salad, you should not eat them raw. No matter which type of lentils you buy, you can easily cook them by boiling your lentils in water on the stove.

Lentils conceal their superpowers with a dowdy exterior. Pound for pound, raw lentils have more protein than steak. While not as protein-dense once cooked, they pack even more iron than meat, in addition to other vitamins and minerals.

Lentils are high in fibre, and complex carbohydrates, while low in fat and calories. Their high protein content makes lentils a perfect option for those looking to boost their protein intake. They are naturally gluten-free, making them a delicious staple in a gluten-free kitchen.

By including lentils in your diet, you can help regulate hormone levels, promote a healthy estrogen balance, and potentially increase testosterone levels.It is important to note, lentils should be avoided for those with PCOS as it can further imbalance testosterone levels.