Pulses are seeds that are grown on plants which belong to the leguminous family. The components of this family include beans, peas, and lentils. Pulses are old foods that have been consumed for many years. All pulses are believed to contain excellent nutritional qualities.
They often provide high amounts of protein and amino acids, said to be essential for the growth and repair of cells and tissues. Pulses are also said to be a good source of fiber, complex carbohydrates and they are low in saturated fat. Eating pulses is believed to help maintain blood sugar levels.
Haricot beans
They are also named baked beans. Haricot beans are tiny white kidney-shaped beans and are said to be the most popular member of the legume family. They have sometimes named pea beans. The reason for this is because they are of a similar size to peas. These beans feature vast amounts of iron, reported to be beneficial for people prone to suffering from anemia. Haricot beans are a good source of calciumand folic acid.
Soya beans
The yellow variety of Soya beans is usually considered to be food. Different processes transform Soya beans into various foods and drinks, such as nuts, yogurt, and tofu.
Soya is believed to be a rich source ofprotein, as it features essential amino acids. Soya beans also have isoflavones, which are plant hormones that reportedly provide health benefits for both sexes. ConsumingSoyabeans has been reported to help in combating breast cancer, prostate cancer, heart disease and the side effects of menopause. They are said to be an excellent source of calcium and magnesium, which helps in aiding bone building. They also featureessential fatty acidsandVitamin E.
Red Kidney beans
This bean is reported to have a distinctive kidney shape. Red kidney beans are believed to be very versatile. They pick up flavors well, and they are reported to be very easy to digest especially if cooked and eaten with different various herbs.
Red kidney beans are said to be excellent for blood sugar control, to help fight against diabetes and may be beneficial for people with a poor liver function. They contain large amounts offolate (folic acid),magnesiumandiron.
Mung beans
These may also frequently be germinated as bean sprouts. They are low in calories and reported to be highly beneficial for the heart as they are low in sodium and saturated fat. Mung Beans are highly nutritious, rich in Vitamin C which may help in strengthening the immunity system, contains B Vitamins, iron, magnesium,potassium, manganeseandcopper.
Butter beans
Also named lima beans, they taste very creamy. Butter beans feature large amounts of soluble fiber, which is believed to help lower cholesterol levels.
They are a great source ofpotassium, iron, andfolate (folic acid).These beans are reported to help fight against cancer as they feature protease inhibitors.
Pinto beans
Pinto beans contain dark brown markings that lighten to become a pale beige color when cooked. They are packed with the minerals, seleniumbelieved to help enhance good mood,iron,andfolic acid.
Aduki beans
Aduki beans are part of the ‘red bean’ family. These beans are easily digestible and are reported to provide large amounts of potassium, iron, zincandfolic acid.
Lentils
These seeds may be in the colors brown, green and red. Lentils are believed to be easily digestible. They have been considered to help in regulating bowel function and reducing cholesterol levels. They are believed to be a great source of fiber, zinc, iron, andpotassium.
Chickpeas
Chickpeas feature high amounts of protein which mean they should be a great bodybuilding food. They are also very low in fat. Chickpeas contain high amounts of vitamin C,Vitamin B6(pyridoxine) andfolic acid. It is believed they feature high amounts ofzinc.