Lentils have long been known for their taste. But few people know exactly what benefits and harms this legume brings to the human body. Before you start using lentils in your diet or use them to prepare various beauty recipes, you need to carefully study the nuances of their use.

Table: composition of lentils

Product benefits

1. The product is a source of valuable vegetable protein, which is easily absorbed by our body.
2. This legume contains a lot of iron. One serving provides 90% of the daily requirement of this trace element.
3. Lentils are one of the leaders in the content of vitamin B9, which is necessary for the production of hemoglobin.
4. This product contains coarse insoluble fibers that normalize bowel function.

Table: comparison of lentils and peas for bju and calories

Video: the beneficial properties of lentils and its combination with bell pepper

There are five varieties:

• red;
• yellow;
• green;
• brown;
• black.

Red or orange

Red lentils are also called orange. The color of the product is due to the high content of iron. In addition, this variety is rich in potassium. The inclusion of red beans in the diet improves brain activity and normalizes the functioning of the human nervous system. The product does not have a shell, so it cooks quickly.

Green

Green (French) lentils lead among other species in their healing properties, as they contain the highest amount of fiber. In fact, it is an unripe beans. This variety is indicated for intestinal problems and to reduce sugar levels. The green variety takes longer to cook.

yellow

Yellow lentils are green grains freed from the shell. Such a product retains all the healing qualities of the previous variety, but contains slightly less fiber.

brown

Brown lentils are the most common in cooking. These are the same beans as green beans, but already ripe. They retain the useful properties of the product.

Black

Black lentils were first bred in Canada. This variety is the most fragrant, and when cooked, it retains its shape and color. It surpasses its counterparts in protein content, therefore it is considered more nutritious. The color of the product is given by a special pigment with antioxidant properties.

Black lentils outwardly resemble black caviar, for which they received the name "beluga"

germinated grain

Sprouts also have amazing properties. The grain becomes alive, the content of vitamin C in the product increases. The sprout will be useful to everyone, but in small quantities.

Tip: Eating 50 grams of sprouted beans per day will be useful for people suffering from reduced immunity.

Sprouted lentils are especially useful because they retain all the beneficial properties

What kind is the most useful?

It is difficult to answer which lentils are the most useful, since all varieties have a good effect on the human body. Green has more fiber, so it is suitable for diabetes and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Black is more effective in fighting oncology, and red is with anemia and problems with blood vessels. The use of sprouts well raises the immune system. It is enough for a healthy person to diversify his diet with lentils in any form up to two times a week. With proper use (up to 100 g per day), the product will only benefit the body.

All varieties have beneficial properties

Benefits for Women

1. Prevents the development of breast cancer.
2. Prevents benign tumors of the uterus.
3. Helps to get through the menopause easier.
4. For women of reproductive age, it alleviates painful conditions with premenstrual syndrome.

Benefits during pregnancy

1. Contributes to the normal formation and growth of the fetus.
2. Increases the immunity of mother and child.
3. Prevents the development of anemia.
4. Provides normal blood formation.

During pregnancy, it is worth limiting consumption to 50 grams per day, because:

• due to slow digestion, a feeling of nausea may occur, which is especially undesirable for toxicosis;
• in women at risk of urolithiasis, abuse can provoke the formation of kidney stones.

When breastfeeding

• helps to strengthen the immunity of the baby;
• provides the necessary level of iron and prevents anemia in mother and baby;
• contributes to the normal functioning of the intestines, regulates stool, and also removes toxins from the body of a woman;
• does not cause allergies in the child.

For feeding babies

1. Legumes can be introduced into the baby's menu no earlier than 8 months. If there are problems with the gastrointestinal tract, then not earlier than two years.
2. Most domestic pediatricians recommend introducing this product only from the age of 2, since the grains of these crops contain special fibers and sugars that can cause increased gas formation and irritation of the fragile children's intestines.
3. Acquaintance with legumes is recommended to start with red lentils, as it contains less coarse fibers.
4. Beans contain a lot of vegetable protein, which is easier for children to digest than meat.
5. You need to try to give the product to the child from half a teaspoon in a pureed form. If the baby has problems with digestion, then postpone the start of complementary feeding with legumes to a later date.
6. It will be enough to use the product for complementary foods once every 2 weeks.

The role of the product in a healthy diet for men

According to scientists, lentils are especially useful for men suffering from impotence. In addition, a strong half of humanity is prone to cardiovascular diseases. Including beans in the male diet will help prevent these ailments.

Lentils for weight loss

Reasons why the product is useful for weight loss:

• is not high-calorie;
• valuable carbohydrates contained in lentils do not cause spikes in blood glucose;
• takes a long time to digest, so it saturates well;
• is an excellent source of protein, and the content of coarse dietary fiber contributes to good bowel function.

In order to lose weight, it is better to eat green beans, because they have more healthy fiber, it takes longer to digest and suppresses appetite for several hours.

For weight loss, it is better to use green lentils.

Is it possible to get better from lentils?

When consumed in moderation, gaining weight from beans is quite difficult. The product is slowly absorbed, so it dulls the feeling of hunger for a long time. In addition, its use does not cause a sharp jump in blood sugar, so there is no desire to eat after such a meal.

Can the product be consumed in the evening?

In the evening, lentils should be eaten in moderation because they contain carbohydrates. If you eat 50 grams of beans as a side dish for dinner, then this will only benefit the body and you will not get better.

Lentils for athletes

Red lentil soup is a very healthy and tasty dish.

Liver disease and cholecystitis

Lentils are digested slowly, as they contain a large amount of coarse fibers. Therefore, in case of liver diseases, biliary dyskinesia and cholecystitis, its consumption should be limited to 1 time per week. If the patient wants to pamper himself, then you need to choose the red variety.

Red lentils are suitable for people with liver diseases

Gastritis, including with high acidity

Lentils, especially green and black, are recommended for gastritis with low acidity, but it is worth including it in the diet only after consulting a doctor. This legume contributes to irritation of the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract and causes increased gas formation. Therefore, with gastritis with high acidity, it should be excluded from the diet.

With gastritis with low acidity, lentils can only be eaten in a well-boiled form - as mashed soups or liquid cereals. And before cooking, it should be soaked for 8-10 hours to reduce gas formation.

Gout

Gout is a disease associated with metabolic disorders. The diet in this case is aimed at eliminating foods containing uric acid. Lentils are rich in this substance, so it should be excluded from the diet for this disease.

Hypertension

Hypertension is a disease characterized by high blood pressure. In this case, the diet should be monitored especially carefully. People suffering from hypertension just need to include lentils in their diet at least 2-3 times a week due to the high content of potassium, which is good for blood vessels. In addition, a large amount of coarse fiber helps to normalize cholesterol levels.

Medicine for hypertension based on motherwort

Ingredients:

• 20 g dry motherwort;
• 30 g lentils.

Cooking method

1. Combine the ingredients and fill the composition with water.
2. Boil the broth over low heat for half an hour.
3. Strain the infusion.

Drink two tablespoons of the decoction three times a day before meals.

Stones in the kidneys

This is one of the few diseases in which lentils and all legumes are contraindicated, as these foods can provoke the formation of new stones.

beauty recipes

Lentils have long been used in the manufacture of beauty products. For example, in India, bean-based shampoo with essential oils is very popular. The product makes hair soft, manageable and smooth.

At home, you can make simple and healthy face and hair masks from it.

Mask for split ends with sprouted lentils

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon dry fenugreek;
• 100 g of sprouted beans;
• 100 ml natural yoghurt.

Cooking method

1. Grind fenugreek and lentils in a coffee grinder.
2. Add yogurt, mix everything thoroughly.
3. Place the resulting mixture in the refrigerator overnight.

The next morning, the mask should be applied to the hair for 3 hours. Then rinse with warm water without shampoo.

Rejuvenating face mask

Ingredients:

• 1 cup lentil seeds;
• 1 glass of sour cream;
• 100 ml freshly brewed green tea.

Cooking method

1. Grind the beans in a coffee grinder.
2. Mix with sour cream.
3. Apply the mixture evenly on your face and keep it on for 15-20 minutes.
4. After a specified period of time, moisten a cotton swab with fresh tea leaves and wash off the mask with it.
5. Remove the remnants of the mask by washing with cool running water.

Contraindications and precautions

Despite all its useful properties, lentils have a number of contraindications. It should be excluded from the diet:

• with diseases of the joints;
• with gout;
• with uric acid diathesis;
• with difficulty urinating;
• with kidney disease;
• with hemorrhoids.

With extreme caution, you need to treat this legume in diseases of the skin, gastrointestinal tract and pancreatitis. Do not exceed the consumption rate - this is the main precautionary measure. If you follow it, then there will be no health problems.

Lentils are a useful product. Due to the high percentage of protein, it is able to replace meat products and bread, but at the same time it is absorbed by the body much faster, without disturbing the functioning of the intestines and stomach, and without turning into extra pounds.

What is a lentil and what does it look like

Lentils are a plant of the legume family, with fruits in the form of flat seeds. It has many varieties that differ depending on the area and the popularization of growth, as well as the degree of purification and maturity of the grains. But all of them, regardless of the type, are endowed with a high level of protein content, which makes lentils not only tasty, but also very healthy.

Kinds

1. Brown - more common than others. Used in making soups. The only type that needs to be soaked a day before use. In this case, the cooking process takes up to 20 minutes.
2. Red - this variety has already been cleaned, so it does not need preliminary preparation, it boils for 15 minutes.
3. Green is unripe seeds. Mostly salads are prepared from them. Also, this variety is considered female because of the amount of amino acids that are necessary in the treatment of gynecological diseases.
4. Yellow is the main ingredient in most Indian dishes. Bread, main dishes and soups are prepared from it.
5. Black - it is called de Puy or French green. It is considered the most delicious variety and does not need additional seasonings. Due to the thin skin, it does not boil soft and retains its shape during cooking. Pairs perfectly with fish dishes.

How is it different from peas

In addition to the external differences between lentils and peas, we can also say that they differ in composition. So, for example, lentils are the leader among legumes in terms of protein and folic acid content. It contains the only high concentration of fiber and iron. Also, lentils are unique in the content of natural phytoestrogens, isoflavones, which fight cancer and also prevent them. In this, peas are inferior to lentils. In preliminary preparation and preparation, it is not so whimsical; it takes much less time to cook it compared to peas. The latter also has more contraindications.

What is the difference between red and green lentils

Lentils are wonderful because they are always useful, regardless of the degree of preparation, variety and frequency of use. This is the only plant that does not absorb nitrates: neither from the soil nor from the air. That is why lentils are considered the purest food consumed by man. In the absence of contraindications, it can be eaten by everyone and always. But each species has some special qualities, and at a certain period you need to know which one to include in the diet.

The most common are red and green lentils. The main differences are the appearance and degree of digestibility. So, red is better to use for cereals and mashed soups, and green is more suitable for salads and casseroles. Therefore, both varieties can be combined in the daily diet.

Which is more useful
Green lentils improve intestinal motility, speed up the work of the gastrointestinal tract, and also have a richer taste. It is indicated for hepatitis, rheumatism, stomach ulcers, hypertension, women's health problems.

Red contains more iron than other types. This promotes the work of blood vessels, and also improves blood formation.

But both varieties are not inferior to each other in the amount of protein, as well as vitamins necessary for human health. Therefore, one of the options should be chosen only based on contraindications, taste preferences or a specific dish in which one or another variety is used.

Composition and calories

Lentils are often referred to as plant-based meat, as there are 25 g of protein, 1 g of fat and 50 g of healthy carbohydrates per 100 g of the product in an uncooked state. Energy value - 120 kcal.

The composition includes the entire group of vitamin B in high concentrations:

1. B1 - is responsible for the work of the heart, nervous system and gastrointestinal tract.
2. B2 - indispensable for women's health, and also improves the condition of the skin and hair.
3. B3 - regulates metabolism.
4. B6 - necessary for skin diseases, improves the absorption of other products, facilitates the work of the stomach.

It also contains minerals such as copper, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium, as well as vitamins A, C, PP.

The vitamin complex as a whole ensures the smooth functioning of the body, the nervous system. Lentils should be included in the diet during the rehabilitation period after surgery, for people involved in physical activity and sports, as well as for those whose work is related to mental activity.

For women

1. It is the best remedy for the prevention of neoplasms in the uterus and ovaries.
2. Reduces the risk of ectopic pregnancy.
3. It is used for violations of the mammary glands.
4. Relieves symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
5. Ensures the normal functioning of the ovaries.
6. Recommended for thyroid diseases or their prevention.
7. Fights skin rashes.
8. Adjusts the hormonal background.
9. Improves the condition of hair and nails.

For men

• prevents diseases of the genitourinary system;
• favors the improvement of sperm quality;
• helps fight infertility;
• increases sexual function;
• increases the production of testosterone;
• necessary during sports for the rapid build-up of muscle mass;
• shown when working in a hazardous industry.

During pregnancy

During this period, along with pharmacy vitamins, lentils should be included in the diet. One serving of cooked lentils contains the daily rate of folic acid, which is necessary to facilitate gestation, as well as prevent the development of fetal pathologies.

Regular use:

• relieves the symptoms of toxicosis;
• spasms and pain;
• contributes to the normal proper development of the child;
• strengthens bone and muscle tissue;
• stabilizes the hormonal background;
• fights depression;
• improves bowel function;
• keeps normal weight;
• improves the immune system.

When breastfeeding

Lentils, unlike other legumes, do not lead to serious gas formation in infants, which makes them an excellent food for mothers. But nevertheless, if colic and bloating were noticed in the child during the first feeding after the mother ate lentils, it should be excluded from the diet during this period.

If there are no problems and contraindications, then small amounts of lentils should be present in the diet, as it contains:

• potassium - strengthens the immune system, and also acts as a sedative;
• iron - maintains hemoglobin levels;
• folic acid - ensures the proper functioning of the body as a whole;
• lysine - fights viruses and infections;
• fiber - improves the functioning of the intestines, removes toxins and toxins.

For children

In the form of additional feeding, lentils should not be given to children until they are 1.5–2 years old. The opinion of experts on this issue is unanimous. Despite the abundance of vitamins and useful elements in the product, it is very difficult for a child's unformed digestive system. Most often, lentils are excreted from the body in an undigested state, respectively, the children's body does not benefit from the product.

You need to start accustoming a child to lentils with a teaspoon once every 3 days, carefully observing the reaction of the body. If any discomfort occurs, the product must be discarded.

Speaking about the benefits of sprouted lentils, it should be noted that it is in this state that doctors strongly recommend including them in the diet. It is endowed with unique antioxidant properties and fights against the occurrence of malignant tumors. Lentil sprouts can prevent the occurrence of polyps, hemorrhoids and cracks.

Due to the powerful vitamin composition, which increases in the germinated state, daily use will help not only to avoid the occurrence, but also to fight existing diseases of the heart, liver, musculoskeletal system, respiratory system, and blood vessels.

Lentils should be excluded from the menu only for diseases of the stomach and gout.

How to germinate

Most people shy away from sprouting lentils because it seems like a complicated, time-consuming, and long-term process. In fact, there are many options for germination, and they are all very simple to perform.

The most optimal and best is germination in a container. This requires a liter jar, water and large grains. Putting the beans on the bottom, you need to fill the container with water by ¾, leave them for a day, then drain the remaining liquid, leave the grains and put them in a cool place (no more than 15 ° C) for another 2 days. After this time, the first shoots will be seen.

Another convenient way is sprouting in gauze. To do this, rinse the beans, then put in a container, cover with gauze and, pouring water 1 cm above the grains, leave for a day. After that, repeat the procedure.

Sprouted grains should be stored for 5-6 days in the refrigerator.

Such grains can be added to ready-made soups, salads, side dishes. They can become a complete meal for several days, which will contribute to healing and cleansing the body of harmful toxins.

Is it possible to eat lentils while losing weight

Lentils are one of the best foods to use while dieting or eating right. The low calorie content saturates the body with a large amount of protein and macronutrients that provide vital activity. Thus, it is indispensable if you need to get rid of excess weight. When lentils are included in the diet, this is achieved without much effort, but with tremendous benefits. This product is endowed with the ability to quickly saturate the body, while maintaining a feeling of satiety for a long time.

Lentil dishes during dieting will help speed up the metabolic process and improve the function of the intestinal muscle. Due to the low glycemic index, calories are consumed and not deposited in the form of extra pounds. In this case, do not ignore other vegetables, fruits and herbs.

Lentils are one of the few plants that do not absorb radionuclides. That is why, grown in any form and locality, it has value for the body. For people who are forbidden to eat meat or fish for any reason, it is an undoubted favorite in the diet. According to the content of protein and B vitamins, lentils can easily become a full-fledged substitute for these products.

At the same time, it will be able to prevent, alleviate the course and help in the treatment of many chronic diseases.

With diabetes

Such a serious disease as diabetes mellitus, first of all, implies adherence to the diet, constant maintenance of normal weight and exclusion from the diet of all products containing sugar in any form and animal fats. Very quickly, the disease becomes chronic, which causes discomfort.

So, legumes, namely lentils, are primarily indicated for this disease, regardless of the type of disease (insulin dependent or not). In a study of 100 people, 2 hours after a meal of lentil soup and sprouted grain salad, 82 people experienced a decrease in blood sugar levels and improved vascular health. This is because lentils contain only light carbohydrates, which do not provoke an increase in blood sugar.

Also, the most important quality for diabetics is that the body's endurance increases and the ability of the immune system to resist various infectious diseases improves. The dietary features of the product help maintain normal weight without jumps and muscle tone during illness.

Important: glycemic index of lentils - 28 units.

With pancreatitis

When ingested, lentils accelerate metabolism and start intestinal motility, which causes an increase in the work of the pancreas and the release of pancreatic elements, which is unacceptable in pancreatitis. It is this feature of lentils that makes it a prohibited product both in the presence and in the early stages of the disease.

With gastritis

Lentils can be added to the diet in small quantities only after a doctor's permission has been obtained. Otherwise, grains in any form can provoke an exacerbation of the disease. This is due to the fact that legumes, despite their beneficial properties, have a number of qualities that are bad for the condition in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (with gastritis in the first place).

The safest dish is lentil puree, which should be eaten warm without additional hot spices and peppers.

For the intestines

In the absence of chronic diseases, lentils will be the best preventive measure for preventing serious diseases - from constipation to polyps and oncological manifestations. It helps to improve the functioning of the intestinal muscle, which has a beneficial effect on peristalsis, strengthens the walls of the intestine, and also removes toxins and toxins.

For constipation

If you include lentils in the diet at least 3 times a week in 100-gram portions, you can get rid of the disease, even if it has passed into the chronic stage. The only condition is the use of sprouted grains. It is they who, as a mild laxative, have a beneficial effect on the digestive organs and intestines, contract muscles, thin the feces and remove them.

For gout

Gout is a disorder of purine metabolism. All legumes, including lentils, contain a high percentage of them in their composition, which causes an increase in the release of uric acid, which, when it enters the joints, increases pain and aggravates the disease. That is why their use must be excluded.

With colitis

Both in the acute form of inflammation of the intestinal mucosa, and in the chronic course of the disease, legumes must be treated with caution. And experts often advise people suffering from colitis to limit themselves in food. The thing is that this type of food is oversaturated with vegetable proteins and heavy fibers, which are heavy enough to be digested and absorbed by the intestines.

But if it is difficult to refuse their use or for some reason impossible, you just need to add turmeric, dill or parsley. They reduce flatulence and also accelerate the dissolution of solids.

For the liver

The liver is the filter of the body, which works on a par with the kidneys and skin. While eating harmful foods, the liver draws in all the negative substances, which reduces the risk of their impact on other organs. That is why it is so necessary to protect it and constantly take all measures to prevent diseases of the organ. Lentils are the best way to cleanse the liver from the negative effects of other products. The composition includes phytoestrogens, isoflavones, which neutralize the negative effects of harmful substances, keeping the body in a healthy state. Of course, during an exacerbation of existing diseases, the use of lentils should be abandoned or reduced to 1 time per week.

With cholecystitis

If cholecystitis occurs, fatty foods should be excluded from the diet, and lentils will help best of all. It is able to quickly saturate the body without negative effects on the gallbladder. The only thing to remember is to stop using in the presence of gas formation.

With hemorrhoids

The diet for hemorrhoids includes red lentils. It is more saturated with vegetable protein, which helps to restore bowel function. Along with berries, fruits and vegetables, lentils should be consumed more often during treatment.

Lentils, due to their high vitamin composition, are often used in folk medicine as a cure for many ailments. Moreover, it is used both internally and externally.

Lentil congee

Helps with constipation, colitis and hemorrhoids, as well as with diseases of the genitourinary system, kidneys and liver. To do this, add 0.5 cup more water while cooking green lentils. When the porridge is cooked, drain the excess liquid. Take it in the morning on an empty stomach and before going to bed for a teaspoon. It helps dissolve stones and remove sand from the kidneys.

Lentil flour

It is used as an additive powder for gastritis. You need to grind dry green lentils in a coffee grinder and drink before each meal. It helps to start the stomach and fight gastritis.

Lentil powder with butter

Mix ground grains in a coffee grinder with oil in a ratio of 1: 1 and use for the speedy healing of wounds and burns. B vitamins contribute to the regeneration of skin tissues, and also have an antiseptic effect.

Flatbreads made from lentil flour

Necessary for inclusion in the diet for heart disease, thinning of the walls of blood vessels and anemia. Flatbreads are prepared by mixing water with crushed dry lentils and fried in a dry frying pan without the addition of vegetable oil.

Lentils in cosmetology

Lentil flour has gained its recognition in cosmetology due to the presence of vitamin E, which is also called the vitamin of youth. Women began to use grains not only as food, but also learned how to make face and hair masks from it.

It should be noted that lentils have the following qualities:

• rejuvenates, nourishes and moisturizes the skin;
• restores water balance and tightens it;
• protects against external pollution;
• cleanses pores of toxins.

Recipes:

1. Mix flour with warm milk 1:2 and add a teaspoon of olive oil. Apply for 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water. This mask will moisturize and nourish the skin with vitamins. The effect will be noticeable after the first procedure.
2. Take two tablespoons of such products: honey, flour and aloe pulp. Mix thoroughly, then apply to the face with massaging movements, especially paying attention to the areas affected by wrinkles. Wash off 20 minutes after application. This procedure will be an excellent means of combating age-related manifestations on the face.
3. A mixture of flour and crystallized honey will be an excellent remedy for fighting cellulite. To do this, you need to massage using this tool while taking a shower. The procedure must be repeated 1 time in 2 days for a month. In combination with sports and proper nutrition, such a scrub will help get rid of the problem for a long time.

For hair, masks using lentils must be done, as they:

• strengthen the bulbs;
• promote hair growth;
• envelop the hair along the entire length, creating a protective film;
• get rid of the problem of split ends.

Of the many recipes, the best are:

1. Take crushed grains of lentils, honey and yolk in a ratio of 1: 1, mix, and then apply to the scalp with massaging movements. The mask will help reduce hair loss and also awaken the bulbs for further growth.
2. Add flour to warm high-fat milk, apply to curls for 30-40 minutes. The mask will help in the shortest possible time to get rid of dandruff. If you use the mixture daily, applying for a few minutes and rinsing off with running water, it will help get rid of too oily roots.

Harm and contraindications

The main contraindications to the frequent use of lentils include:

1. Gout. Legumes contain high concentrations of purines, which increase the production of uric acid, which can worsen the consequences during the course of the disease.
2. Gastric ulcer. Vegetable proteins make the stomach work faster, which leads to more juice production. The mucous membrane is destroyed faster, which aggravates the disease and leads to acute attacks of pain.
3. Kidney disease, especially in acute form. Lentils are a strong diuretic and can cause pain and exacerbation of the disease.
4. Any chronic disease. This is not so much a contraindication as a warning. In the presence of an ailment, it is necessary to consult a doctor about the inclusion of a certain variety of lentils in the diet.

It is also worth listening to the body and in case of severe flatulence or pain in any organ, abandon lentils.

The plant goes on sale in packaged form or by weight. When purchasing a product, an important role is played by:

• grain integrity;
• their hardness;
• lack of moisture;
• absence of foreign elements.

If these conditions are preserved and the kernels are neat, uniform in color and the same shape, you can safely buy lentils. You also need to pay attention to the expiration date - it should not exceed 1 year.

After purchase, lentils must be placed in a dry, cool place with zero humidity, where direct sunlight does not fall. A frosted plastic or glass container with a tight-fitting lid will help keep the quality of the beans as long as possible. At the same time, it must be kept in a closet away from the oven and water.

Ready-made lentils can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. At the same time, useful properties are preserved, and taste qualities remain the same during this time.

What can be cooked from lentils

The range of lentil dishes is striking in variety. From it you can cook both vegetarian bread and a hearty soup with meat. It all depends on preferences and goals.

Soup

The most famous lentil dish is cream soup. It is easy to prepare, but at the same time it has an incredible taste and can replace rich borscht in terms of satiety.

To cook it, you need to fry onions, carrots, red bell peppers (1 each). When the vegetables become soft, add the grated tomato to them, after which - finely chopped potatoes. After adding spices, stew them in their own juice without adding water. After a few minutes, add red lentils (0.5 cups), leave for 2 minutes with vegetables. Then pour everything into a saucepan and pour 0.7 liters of boiling water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then, reducing it, leave until the lentils are boiled. At the end, grind with a blender. Serve with a few drops of lemon juice.

cutlets

For their preparation, brown lentils (1.5 cups) are used, which must be poured with water in the evening. Before cooking, drain the water and rinse the swollen grains again. Fill with water again, cook for 10 minutes. At this time, fry and stew onions and carrots (2 each). Remove liquid with a colander and leave to cool for 15 minutes. After that, mix the grains and vegetables and pass through a meat grinder to obtain a homogeneous minced meat. Salt, pepper, add spices to taste and mix thoroughly. After that, mold cutlets of the desired size and, rolling in flour, fry in a hot frying pan.

Porridge

The most simple and healthy dish. For it you will need red lentils (1 cup), water (350 ml), spices and butter to taste. Boil the lentils for 15 minutes, then season and add the oil.

Pate

It will be a great snack not only on weekdays, but also on the festive table. Boil red lentils (100 g). Salt and add a little butter, then mix with a blender. Grind walnuts (70 g) to the state of flour. Then fry the carrots grated on a fine grater. Add spices and leave to simmer for 1 minute over low heat. After that, put the carrots, lentil puree and nuts in a blender and mix everything thoroughly. Ready-made pate is perfect for dried bread in a toaster or sandwich maker.

Pancakes

Such a dish will be a great vegetarian alternative to regular pancakes due to the absence of eggs and milk in the composition.

Red lentils (100 g) pour water (250 ml). Leave for 2-3 hours covered. When infused, grind with a blender along with the remaining water to a puree state. Add pepper, salt and any desired spices to it, mix thoroughly. Grease a frying pan with vegetable oil and heat it up. Pour the mass and level it in the pan until an even layer. Fry over medium heat for 2 minutes on each side.

These pancakes are also suitable for freezing.

This dish takes minutes to prepare, but be sure to use the green variety of lentils because of their ability to maintain their appearance and the integrity of the grains.

Lentils after boiling, cook for 10-15 minutes over low heat. At this time, fry the onion, bell pepper and carrots. Put the finished grains in a pan with vegetables, mix, add spices and sprinkle with parsley. Let it brew for a few minutes, serve as a side dish to any dish. Lentils go well with any meat and fish.

Do I need to soak lentils before cooking?

It depends solely on the variety. Soaking for a long time (12-24 hours) is necessary only for brown lentils. She is the only ripened unpeeled variety. That is why, to reduce the cooking time to 20 minutes, it must be filled with water.

The remaining varieties that can be found - red, green, black and yellow, do not need to be soaked in advance. Their preparation time is 10-20 minutes, depending on the quantity.

How to eat lentils

Lentils are among the most unpretentious representative of legumes. Unlike peas, chickpeas and beans, which need to be soaked with water and swell, it is enough to rinse lentils with cold water and clean them of excess dirt. It is easy to prepare and goes well with other meat and vegetable dishes.

Can you eat raw

Raw (soaked overnight) green lentil kernels can be consumed. In the absence of contraindications, vegetable salads with the addition of raw grains and olive oil are very useful for the body as a whole.

You can also eat sprouted grains, they are especially useful to add to the diet.

Is it possible to eat at night

You can, and regardless of the variety and in any form. Lentils have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the intestines. As you know, his work is activated precisely at night, so if there are problems in the digestive system, lentils will be useful 1 hour before bedtime.

How much can you eat per day

There is no clear limit on the amount of lentils in the diet. This applies to both the daily diet and adherence to the dietary regimen. In the absence of contraindications, the number of meals eaten should be adjusted for each person. Everything is good and useful in moderation. Therefore, the average is 100–150 g of grains in an unprepared form.

Can pets eat lentils?

It's no secret that the owners feed their pets with cereals and other products that they feed on themselves. In some cases, this is correct, since animals need to get vitamins from plants, vegetables and fruits. But regarding legumes, namely lentils, veterinarians unanimously declare that there will be no benefit to animals from this product. They explain this by the fact that the digestive system of animals differs significantly from the human one. Therefore, lentils are not absorbed by the body of pets, but come out in their original form, leading to pain, gas formation and diarrhea. In some cases, this can lead to an increase in temperature.

1. The oldest finds of lentils date back to 2400 BC.
2. In ancient Egypt, it was a prerequisite to put lentil bread in the tomb of the deceased so that he would not have to starve.
3. In Russia, lentils were cultivated in the 14th century, they called them "Queen Lentils".
4. The Russian Empire was the main supplier of lentils to the countries of the world.
5. In India, lentils are number 1 in consumption. As you know, most of the country's inhabitants adhere to vegetarianism, and lentils, rich in protein, can fully replace meat.
6. In Germany, they believe that if there are lentil dishes on the festive table, the owner will be prosperous.
7. In Turkey, lentil soup is the main dish. Every housewife should be able to cook it.

Chemical composition: minerals and vitamins in lentils

Plant culture contains such important elements as:

Nutritional value and calorie content of beans

In 100 grams of the product - 116 kilocalories.

Useful properties for the body

People who have kidney disease should not use this product either.

What is useful red, green, yellow, black lentils?

Different types of lentils have significant differences in their chemical composition.

Medicinal properties of lentils: medicinal recipes

Contraindications for use

How to properly store lentils

How long should you store

Where to store lentils

The benefits and harms of lentils for men and women

For those women who are of childbearing age, the product helps to reduce pain before menstruation.

Are lentils good for men?

This culture does not tend to divide people by gender.

The benefits of lentils for pregnant women

Video: how to cook and cook lentils at home

The harm and benefits of lentils for weight loss

What are the benefits of this culture?

sprouted lentils

What are the benefits of sprouted lentils, and what is its harm

The norm is the use of 150 grams of sprouted lentils per day.

Don't be afraid to get hungry. Lentils are a nutritious food. For a long time, after its use, you can feel full.

How to sprout lentils at home for food

When a person begins to germinate this culture, he may encounter such a problem as rotting of the grains.

Why can this happen? The grains begin to rot:

• due to poor ventilation;
• dirty or warm water;
• poor quality wash.

Attention! Above the lentils, the layer of water should not exceed 3-5 mm.

Lentil flour: application

Attention! The information in the article is provided for informational purposes only. Do not self-medicate, consult an experienced doctor.

The benefits and harms of lentils for the human body

Table: composition of lentils

Product benefits

Varieties of lentils

Red or orange

brown

germinated grain

What kind is the most useful?

All varieties have beneficial properties

Benefits for Women

Benefits during pregnancy

When breastfeeding

For feeding babies

Lentils for athletes

Raw consumption

Benefits for a raw foodist

type 2 diabetes

• 1 glass of plain water

• 2 tablespoons of lentils,
• one and a half glasses of plain water.

1. Strain the decoction through cheesecloth.

Pancreatitis

• 100 g red lentils;
• 50 g dried tomatoes;
• spices to taste.

Hypertension

• 20 g dry motherwort;
• 30 g lentils.

1. Strain the infusion.

Stones in the kidneys

beauty recipes

• 100 g of sprouted beans;
• 100 ml natural yoghurt.

1. Grind fenugreek and lentils in a coffee grinder.
2. Add yogurt, mix everything thoroughly.
3. Place the resulting mixture in the refrigerator overnight.

Rejuvenating face mask

• 1 cup lentil seeds;
• 1 glass of sour cream;

How can lentils improve health?

Properties of lentils that are valued in medicine:

How can lentils make you feel worse?

Important! The optimal rate of eating lentils is 2-3 times a week.

Which variety is more useful?

In addition to these qualities, each variety has its own medicinal characteristics.

Yellow is a green bean without a top shell. They have the same qualities as unpolished ones.

What is good lentils for women and men?

The effect of lentils on the female body:

Bean menu: the most popular lentil dishes

Read also:

Lentils can not be called already very popular and loved by everyone, but, nevertheless, it has many useful properties.

Useful properties and chemical composition

This herbal product has a large number of useful ingredients that can become a substitute for meat:

Harm and contraindications

Along with the benefits of lentils, there is also harm, information about which must be taken into account:

About the benefits of red lentils

About sprouted lentils

How to choose and store lentils

Read also an article on the topic: the benefits of cherries for the human body!

What is useful lentils: composition and calorie content

• 23 grams of proteins;
• 1.6 grams of fat;
• 46.2 grams of carbohydrates.

The benefits of lentils for the human body

The benefits of lentils for weight loss

Dietary fiber, even with a strict diet, makes the intestines work actively and also contribute to weight loss.

The benefits of lentils for men's health

• with prostatitis,
• when detecting erectile dysfunction;
• as prevention of oncological and inflammatory diseases.

Lentils, as a source of protein, are useful for athletes who monitor weight and muscle mass.

What is useful lentils for the body of a woman and a child

Therefore, a moderate amount of lentils not only does not interfere with women's health, on the contrary, healthy hearty dishes:

Harm and contraindication to the use of lentils

Lentil dishes are an indispensable part of the menu of athletes, vegetarians, people who care about health and weight maintenance.

• gout;
• urolithiasis disease;
• dysbacteriosis and other inflammatory processes in all parts of the intestine.

What are the benefits of lentils - video

Lentils benefits and harms - cooking recipes

Red and green lentils - properties

The benefits of green lentils are tangible for health in diseases:

• hypertension;
• peptic ulcer;
• cholecystitis;
• pyelonephritis;
• hepatitis;
• rheumatism.

Useful properties of lentils for women and men

Lentils for health - uses and recipes

The use of lentils is varied:

From a product enriched with beneficial properties, you can cook meatballs. Recipe:

1. a glass of cooked legumes;
2. two bulbs;
3. 300 g of tomato;
4. a glass of couscous;
5. garlic;
6. salt, spices.

Lentils for weight loss

The product will fill with useful properties the lack of potassium, copper, zinc, folic acid, iron, manganese, phosphorus, vitamin B6.

It is easy to cook cakes from a boiled product according to the recipe:

1. legume 200g;
2. onion;
3. egg;
4. flour 1st.l.

Combine the crushed components, add herbs, salt as needed. Cook cakes for 15 minutes in the oven at 200 degrees.

What are the benefits of lentil sprouts?

• nicotinic acid;
• pyroxidine;
• riboflavin;
• folic acid.

How to use lentils for diabetes?

It is believed that the greatest benefit for diabetics will be achieved if the product is prepared and consumed daily.

A properly prepared recipe dish will benefit diabetics instead of harm.

The recipe for porridge for diabetics contains:

• 0.2 l of lentils;
• carrot;
• onion;
• liter of water;
• spices, herbs to taste.

Benefits for diabetics lentil herb infusion:

Lentils during pregnancy

Useful properties of lentils for the liver

Lentil skin and hair

As part of a nourishing mask for dry skin:

The rejuvenating effect will have a prescription mask:

1. chopped product in the amount of a tablespoon;
2. a tablespoon of sour cream.

Useful properties of masks will appear 15 minutes after application. To increase the benefits, wash off the mask with cool water.

dry hair problem help to solve the beneficial properties of legumes:

How to cook lentils?

For lunch, try the bean soup. For garnish, a product of a red or orange variety is suitable.

Recipe for a delicious and healthy dish represented by the composition of pumpkin stuffed with rice and lentils:

• pumpkin;
• 250 g of rice;
• 150 g of legumes;
• 3 cloves of garlic;
• 125 g spinach;
• 20 g of white teeth;
• salt, spices.

In the evening, the beneficial properties of the green product will appear in the salad:

Lentil porridge - recipe

There are many recipes for cereals that diversify the daily menu with the beneficial properties of the dish.

Red porridge is prepared according to the recipe:

• 2 cups of legumes;
• bulb;
• carrot;
• vegetable oil, pepper, salt.

Useful porridge from a green product is prepared according to the recipe:

• 200 g of legumes;
• cilantro;
• a pair of bulbs;
• clove of garlic;
• olive oil, vegetable;
• salt pepper.

How to make lentil soup?

The composition of the dish includes:

Carrot soup puree with a useful product will benefit the body. The recipe contains:

Recipes for children

To make the bean product easier to digest, it is worth serving as a side dish for children. bean puree:

• a glass of red;
• 300 g of cauliflower;
• carrot;
• bulb;
• 2 tomatoes;
• 1.7 liters of water;
• salt, spices.

Lentils: benefits and harms to human health: recipes for cooking delicious dishes

Lentil happens:

• green,
• orange,
• brown,
• yellow,
• red,
• black.

These types differ in the degree of cleaning, processing and cooking time.

Brown lentils are fully ripe. It is not suitable for a raw food diet. Porridge is made from it.

Black grains are considered rare. They cook relatively quickly. (25 minutes).

Composition and calories

In 100 g of dry product:

For the body

When losing weight

Watch the video! sprouted grains for health

For men

For women and children

In addition, lentils help maintain muscle tone and control weight.

How to properly cook lentils

It's easy to make, you just need to know a few things. Sometimes they are also written on the packaging.

Lentil porridge

For cooking you need:

Watch the video! Lentil porridge

Lentils in a slow cooker with meat

For cooking you will need:

Soup from green lentils with chicken

For cooking you need:

Contraindications and harm

Watch the video! Lentil soup

How to cook orange lentils correctly to make it tasty?

Orange lentils are a very healthy, nutritious and appetizing product.

From bright grains you can make a lot of different and satisfying dishes.

This type of lentil does not need to be pre-soaked; its cooking time does not exceed 20-25 minutes.

Also, on the basis of boiled lentils, you can make delicious cutlets or meatballs.

Especially they will appeal to vegans and those who fast.

How to cook orange lentils correctly?

• red lentils (1 tbsp.);
• water (2 tbsp.);
• salt (1/4 tsp).

1. Wash the orange grains under cold water. We filter the mass through a sieve.

2. Put the prepared beans in a saucepan.

4. We are waiting for the lentil preparation to boil, cook the beans for 20-25 minutes. Remember: so that the fruits do not boil, do not cover the container with a lid.

5. After the mass changes its color and texture, and the water has almost evaporated, pour salt.

6. We mix the products. Cook the lentils for a few more minutes.

7. Serve red lentils at any time or make nutritious and mouth-watering dishes based on them

Hopefully now that you know how to cook orange lentils the right way, you'll cook them more often.

The benefits and harms of lentils for human health

Table: composition of lentils

Product benefits

1. The product is a source of valuable vegetable protein, which is easily absorbed by our body.
2. This legume contains a lot of iron. One serving provides 90% of the daily requirement of this trace element.
3. Lentils are one of the leaders in the content of vitamin B9, which is necessary for the production of hemoglobin.
4. This product contains coarse insoluble fibers that normalize bowel function.

Table: comparison of lentils and peas for bju and calories

Video: the beneficial properties of lentils and its combination with bell pepper

Varieties of lentils

There are five varieties:

Red or orange

Red beans are rich in iron and potassium

Green lentils lead among other varieties in terms of fiber content.

Yellow lentils are unripe, unshelled beans.

brown

Black lentils outwardly resemble black caviar, for which they received the name "beluga"

germinated grain

Tip: Eating 50 grams of sprouted beans per day will be useful for people suffering from reduced immunity.

Sprouted lentils are especially useful because they retain all the beneficial properties

What kind is the most useful?

Benefits for Women

1. Prevents the development of breast cancer.
2. Prevents benign tumors of the uterus.
3. Helps to get through the menopause easier.
4. For women of reproductive age, it alleviates painful conditions with premenstrual syndrome.

Benefits during pregnancy

1. Contributes to the normal formation and growth of the fetus.
2. Increases the immunity of mother and child.
3. Prevents the development of anemia.
4. Provides normal blood formation.

During pregnancy, it is worth limiting consumption to 50 grams per day, because:

When breastfeeding

• helps to strengthen the immunity of the baby;
• provides the necessary level of iron and prevents anemia in mother and baby;
• contributes to the normal functioning of the intestines, regulates stool, and also removes toxins from the body of a woman;
• does not cause allergies in the child.

For feeding babies

The role of the product in a healthy diet for men

Lentils for weight loss

Reasons why the product is useful for weight loss:

For weight loss, it is better to use green lentils.

Is it possible to get better from lentils?

Can the product be consumed in the evening?

Lentils for athletes

How to use when gaining muscle

Raw consumption

Benefits for a raw foodist

Sprouted lentils are especially relevant for raw foodists, because they contain many substances that are indispensable for the body.

Use for various ailments

Lentils are a very useful product that is useful for many diseases.

type 2 diabetes

For diabetics, a decoction of legume leaves is well suited. To prepare it you will need:

• 1 glass of plain water
• 1 tablespoon chopped lentil herb.

1. Bring water to a boil and pour over herbs.
2. Let the decoction brew for 1 hour.
3. After a specified period of time, strain the infusion through gauze.

Take a decoction should be 3 times a day before meals, 1 tablespoon.

• 2 tablespoons of lentils,
• one and a half glasses of plain water.

1. Pour beans with water, put on fire.
2. Bring to a boil and cook for 20 minutes.
3. Strain the decoction through cheesecloth.

Take 3-4 times a day before meals.

Pancreatitis

With pancreatitis, it will be useful to use puree soup. To prepare it you will need:

• 100 g red lentils;
• 50 g dried tomatoes;
• spices to taste.

Red lentil soup is a very healthy and tasty dish.

Liver disease and cholecystitis

Red lentils are suitable for people with liver diseases

Gastritis, including with high acidity

Hypertension

Medicine for hypertension based on motherwort

• 20 g dry motherwort;
• 30 g lentils.

1. Combine the ingredients and fill the composition with water.
2. Boil the broth over low heat for half an hour.
3. Strain the infusion.

Drink two tablespoons of the decoction three times a day before meals.

Stones in the kidneys

beauty recipes

At home, you can make simple and healthy face and hair masks from it.

Mask for split ends with sprouted lentils

• 1 tablespoon dry fenugreek;
• 100 g of sprouted beans;
• 100 ml natural yoghurt.

The next morning, the mask should be applied to the hair for 3 hours. Then rinse with warm water without shampoo.

Rejuvenating face mask

• 1 cup lentil seeds;
• 1 glass of sour cream;
• 100 ml freshly brewed green tea.

Contraindications and precautions

Despite all its useful properties, lentils have a number of contraindications. It should be excluded from the diet:

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Lentils are eaten in a variety of ways. The product becomes an ingredient for first and second courses, it can be added to salads, mashed with it. Lentils are a component for the preparation of many medicinal mixtures or drinks, it contains.

There are many varieties of lentils on the market, it is not difficult to distinguish them in appearance. They have different colors. But in terms of their useful properties, they are almost the same. They differ in the degree of cooking and use in cooking.

Nearly mature version. It cooks very quickly and doesn't overcook.

It is also called Spanish lentils. This type is considered the most popular in cooking. It cooks very quickly and goes well with meat and vegetables.

The main distinguishing feature is the complete absence of a shell. It is used to prepare many types of dishes. Prepares very quickly. Has an earthy aroma. Mainly used for puree soups. Turns yellow after heat treatment.

These are unripe lentils, but there is also a specially bred variety called “French” (there are bluish dots on the beans). Green lentils take the longest to cook, about 1 hour. It is mainly used for salads and second courses, it does not boil soft and retains its whole shape, even with long cooking.

Lentils turn black when overripe. But there is also a special cultivar of lentils called Beluga. This is the smallest variety of lentils. Suitable for any food.

Choice based on food preparation

Based on the characteristics of the varieties and the degree of ripening, lentils can be selected for a specific dish that you want to cook.

For soups. Yellow lentils are very suitable, they practically do not boil soft and cook quickly.

For garnish. If you want to surprise your guests, then you should take black or French lentils. You can use green - it takes a long time to cook, but at the same time retains its appearance. Or use the most popular type, brown lentils.

For puree. Use red lentils. It's quick to cook and sizzles a lot.

For salads. Green lentils do not lose their appearance, but cook for a very long time.

Rules for choosing lentils

The selection process for lentils is no different from the rules applied to cereals. This culture can be sold by weight or in packaged versions. In the second case, special attention should be paid to the safety of the packaging. Bags or boxes with tears are not worth buying.

Externally, lentil beans have a flattened shape and rarely exceed 3-4 mm in size. The size of the seeds may vary depending on the variety. There is a separate variety of lentils that looks like cumin seeds.

Signs of good lentils

• lentils should not stick together, but have a crumbly mixture structure;
• if lentils are sold in a bag, then there should be no condensation on the transparent surface of the package;
• beans must be the same size and not differ in color;
• transparent packaging allows you to identify the presence of mold or small bugs;
• the lentil mixture should not contain foreign particles;
• the beans must not be damaged;
• good lentils have an aroma reminiscent of the smell of nuts;
• beans should be clean and smooth.

When not to buy lentils

The expiration date of lentils should not be ignored in any case! In the seeds after this period, beetles most often begin to start up or fungal bacteria form. The taste of such lentils is bitter, and the result of consumption can be food poisoning.

On the shelves of stores, lentils appear in dry or canned form. Each variety differs not only in color, but also in taste. Before buying seeds of this crop, it is better to determine in advance the scope of their application and only after that begin the selection of quality beans.

A few centuries ago, on the territory of the Slavic states, they did not know anything about potatoes, cabbage and tomatoes. But lentils, from which porridges and stews were cooked, even bread was baked, were considered one of the main foodstuffs.

Today the situation has changed: multi-colored lentil seeds can be found on the shelves of large stores, but they are not in special demand.

And in vain: these legumes are a complete source of protein, help in the treatment of dozens of diseases. Delicious when prepared correctly.

Let's figure out whether lentils are good for the body and why, what are the harms and benefits of dishes from this cereal for men and women, is it possible to use in weight loss, and to whom it is contraindicated.

Useful properties of cereals for men and women

As a member of the legume family, lentils are very rich in protein(24 g per 100 g of product), fatty acids, a complex of water-soluble vitamins.

Total 100 g lentil porridge 52% will provide the body's need for essential amino acids, 66% - in, will give a solid amount of manganese, and a dozen other trace elements.

Medicinal properties have been attributed to lentil beans since ancient times., they treated various diseases - from tuberculosis to nervous disorders.

Dishes from this protein-rich legume- the most valuable component of the diet of any vegetarian, and because of the minimum fat content, lentils are an important component of sports nutrition for people who want to quickly build muscle mass.

For medicinal purposes lentil soups, cereals are indicated for:

Such food helps to cope with premenstrual syndrome, it is easier to survive menopause and even solve the problem of infertility.

The substances included in the product help prevent the development of breast cancer.

Which kind is better

There are about a dozen varieties of this type of legume., with different useful properties, color, taste.

Most often, red, green or brown lentils can be found on store shelves.

Which lentil is healthier? The program "Test purchase" tells about it:

Red (Egyptian)

The easiest type of legume to cook- peeled cereal, which does not need pre-soaking and is cooked in a quarter of an hour.

High calorie product about 310 kcal per 100 g ready meal.

Great for soups and stews. Such dishes leave a feeling of fullness for a long time, so even those who lose weight can eat in small quantities.

The peculiarity of such cereals is high iron content: lentil dishes are especially recommended for people with anemia.

Green

Strong unripe grains with a shell, which cannot be boiled to a puree state. When the shell is removed from such grains, the grits acquire a yellow color.

Both types of legumes need to be cooked for at least one and a half hours. To speed up the cooking time, the grains can be soaked in advance.

Green cereals - especially variety suitable for sprouting.

Product feature - high content of tryptophan, fiber, the ability to reduce sugar levels, regulate the work of the digestive tract.

brown or continental

popular variety with a pronounced nutty flavor. Grains - fully mature, with a shell, boil well, but it is undesirable to digest them.

This type of legume can be used to add to salads, cooking meat dishes, casseroles, etc.

For medicinal purposes, brown lentils are used for the treatment of pulmonary diseases, including tuberculosis. Bean dishes also help with quick recovery from bone fractures and muscle ruptures.

sprouted

Beans will bring maximum benefit to the body if they are germinated.. Sprouted sprouts can be added to salads or eaten separately, seasoned with any vegetable oil or lemon juice.

All whole grains need to be soaked for 3-5 days to germinate., change water daily. Egyptian lentils germinate faster than other types.

The benefit of sprouted lentils is that during sprouting, the content of nutrients in the product increases, including folic and nicotinic acids, but the calorie content of the product decreases several times.

When and how best to use

Ideal gradual addition to the diet a small number of germinated grains with many useful properties.

Enough 1-3 tablespoons of legumes, which can be eaten on an empty stomach, along with a small amount of dried fruits (raisins, prunes) or honey.

Sprouted grains in small quantities can be added to salads or main dishes.

On the day you can eat no more than half a glass of lentils in any form. Children over 3 years old can be given raw or boiled lentils in an amount of no more than half a teaspoon.

For purees, soups, sauces and even fillings for pies are more suitable for red cereals, which do not need to be soaked before cooking, but you can salt before serving.

From brown cereals, you can cook porridge with an exquisite nutty flavor. You need to cook porridge under the lid for no longer than 20 minutes.

Abuse of legumes can provoke indigestion, nausea, headache.

But in such food it is desirable to add gas-suppressing spices(asafoetida, dill, etc.).

Diet for weight loss

What are the benefits of lentils for weight loss? As a product that helps maintain health and harmony, it fits perfectly. And this despite the significant calorie content - 332 kcal / 100 g dry cereal.

The benefits of lentils for weight loss and the reason for the popularity of the product among nutritionists - high fiber content, prolonged saturation with amino acids.

Even a small portion of lentil porridge will be enough to not feel hungry for 4-5 hours, but provide yourself with a daily dose of essential trace elements and water-soluble vitamins that are priceless for female beauty.

Bonus - weight loss with muscle mass preservation, because protein products are the main building material for our muscles.

Even with the toughest lentil diet, you can not be afraid of sudden attacks of hunger or mood swings - due to the low glycemic index of the product, a sharp release of insulin into the blood does not occur.

Which diet option to choose depends on the tasks and characteristics of the body.

Lentil mono-diet gives the fastest result, in which for 3-4 days the only dish in the diet is lentil porridge without oil.

For a day on such a diet, you can lose weight by 1-2 kg, but sticking to a diet is permissible provided there are no contraindications and no longer than a few days.

Less strict version- the use of lentil porridge or soup with this type of cereal instead of lunch or dinner.

For the rest, you will have to follow the traditional recommendations of nutritionists: the rejection of pastries and convenience foods, an increase in the amount of vegetables and fruits eaten, at least two liters of clean water daily, etc.

The result from such nutrition will be less fast, but more stable.: you can stick to a sparing diet for 2-3 months or longer.

Potato flowers mixed with lentil flour- the basis for the tincture used to treat cancer.

Decoction of legumes useful for alleviating the condition, eczema, nervous disorders.

Aqueous infusion of plant stems and beans added to the treatment regimen for patients with diabetes mellitus.

How to choose and store

Lentils can be sold whole or chopped, but externally on the grains there should be no spots or damage.

Choosing the right type of legumes is to your taste: the green variety is more like buckwheat and takes the longest to cook, red cereals have no pronounced taste and boil in 15 minutes, and brown grains keep their shape best and have a persistent nutty smell.

For purees and sauces, it is better to take the red variety., for cereals, side dishes - brown, and for adding to salads - green lentils.

You can store lentil beans in a cloth bag or cardboard box in a cool ventilated place. With proper storage, the product will remain suitable for cooking for 9-10 months.

Sprouted grains of legumes can serve as an appropriate addition to any salads, and simple lentil porridge- a great side dish for any meat dishes.

There are other recipes for healthy and tasty lentil dishes.

Lean soup

Lenten soup with lentils is prepared together with the Test Purchase program:

Roll about 500 grams of meat (or pork) in flour, put in a saucepan. Here also add a few slices, chopped onion, 1.5 liters of broth.

Simmer the dish for an hour. Put 250 g of brown lentils, a few sliced ​​fresh carrots and one carrot cut into small sticks in a saucepan.

Simmer the contents of the pot for another 30 minutes. Add spices, let the dish brew.

Given the abundance of useful properties of lentils, ease of preparation, versatility these legumes, the product is definitely worth including in your daily diet.

Sprouted sprouts, regular lentil stew, sauce or an exotic stew with the addition of lentils - any of these dishes will benefit the body, but do not forget about the harm that can be caused to the body by improper use of cereals.

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