Lentils - Meat Substitute

Lentils are part of the legume family because and are called legumes because they grow in pods. Lentils are high in protein and fiber and low in fat, which makes them a healthy substitute for meat. Lentils low-fat proteins are low in calories, plus they are full of fiber Lentils contain vitamins and minerals which improve your health and help fight cancer. Lentils contain folate - which lowers your homocysteine levels that are identified risk factors for heart disease; magnesium which aids the flow of blood, oxygen, to move nutrients around the body; as well as potassium, phosphorus, vitamin B6, manganese, iron, and selenium. In addition, lentils are high levels of soluble fiber which helps to reduce blood cholesterol that in turn reduces the risk of heart disease. The fiber helps to prevent constipation and irritable bowel syndrome, which increases the elimination of toxins built up in our systems, and also traps the carbohydrates which help to reduce blood glucose levels, aiding people with diabetes. Lastly, lentils are a great way to keep energy up and combat fatigue. Iron deficiency is a common cause of fatigue, and a cup of lentils provides over one-third of your daily iron needs.