“Chickpeas are made from chickpeas and are said to have a history of 7000 years. Chickpeas, believed to have originated from the Middle East, are commonly consumed in the Asian continent. In other countries, chickpeas are still relatively unfamiliar. They are commonly preferred to be consumed at engagements, weddings, cinemas, guest invitations, or as an appetizer.
Chickpeas have many health benefi ts because they are derived from chickpeas, which are rich in benefi cial vitamins and minerals. Chickpeas contain vitamins A, C, and E, as well as calcium, iron, copper, potassium, and a high amount of sodium. Additionally, they contain dietary fi bers that are very benefi cial for the digestive system. The only disadvantage of chickpeas is that they lose some of their properties during the roasting process, but despite this, they still off er many health benefi ts.
The Health Benefi ts of Chickpeas
Chickpeas serve a wide range of health benefi ts, from heart and kidney health to skin and hair health. They are also very benefi cial for the nervous system and can help with sleep problems. The health benefi ts of chickpeas can be listed as follows:
**Benefi ts for Skin and Hair Health:** Chickpeas are not directly applied to the skin, but chickpea paste or chickpea water obtained from them can be applied topically to the skin. While roasted chickpeas may not be eff ective when applied topically due to the roasting process, the nutrients they contain can support skin health from within and help nourish skin cells, potentially reducing wrinkles and scar marks. Similarly, the nutrients in chickpeas are important for hair health and can strengthen hair roots, preventing hair loss and addressing dandruff issues.
**Satisfi es Hunger:** Chickpeas can be helpful for those on a diet, as they can help with weight loss by keeping you full for longer periods and reducing the desire to eat. Their ability to curb appetite makes them a useful snack.
**Benefi cial for Cholesterol:** Consuming 2-3 cups of chickpeas daily can help maintain healthy levels of bad cholesterol (LDL cholesterol). This property can reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other related diseases.
**Protects Heart Health:** Scientifi c studies have consistently shown that chickpeas contribute to heart health. By regulating LDL cholesterol levels, chickpeas signifi cantly benefi t heart health. Furthermore, the soluble fi bers in chickpeas have been scientifi cally proven to be benefi cial for heart health.
**Regulates Sleep Patterns:** Chickpeas, rich in amino acids, tryptophan, and serotonin, can be benefi cial for those with sleep problems. Consuming some chickpeas before bedtime can help you achieve a deep sleep.
**Supports Nervous System Health:** The amino acids, tryptophan, serotonin, and other components in chickpeas are important for the nervous system. They can help alleviate stress and depression, preventing negative thoughts caused by stress. Additionally, they have positive eff ects on memory and cognitive function.
**Boosts the Immune System:** Iron is a crucial nutrient for the immune system, and chickpeas, being rich in iron, signifi cantly contribute to immune function and resistance against diseases.
**Benefi ts for Women’s Health:** Chickpeas can be eff ective in addressing women’s health issues, and their minerals and compounds may help prevent breast cancer. Additionally, they can provide support during menopause.
**Provides Energy:** Chickpeas, especially due to their iron content, are important for expectant mothers during pregnancy. However, it’s recommended to consume chickpeas instead of roasted chickpeas to maximize their benefi ts since some of roasted chickpeas’ properties are lost during roasting. Additionally, chickpeas contain manganese and calcium, which provide energy and are vital for bone health.
**Rich in Folic Acid:** Chickpeas contain a signifi cant amount of folic acid, which is benefi cial for breastfeeding mothers. Folic acid is also used in spinal cord treatments and supports the health of the nervous system.
**Controls Diabetes:** Chickpeas can partially help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. They contain ample dietary fi ber, which aids in the breakdown of foods and digestion. Chickpeas are recommended for insulin management. **Protects Blood Cells:** Phosphate in chickpeas plays a role in protecting the health of blood cells. It can increase the number of blood cells, raise hemoglobin levels, and help remove excess salts from the kidneys.
**Anti-Cancer Properties:** While it’s challenging to claim that chickpeas cure cancer, their high fi ber and fatty acid content can reduce the risk of colon cancer. The abundant fi ber and fatty acids in chickpeas are absorbed by the colon and converted into energy, which supports healthy colon cells and reduces the risk of cancer. Additionally, the fi ber in chickpeas is benefi cial for the digestive system and can increase bowel movements.
**For Kidney Stones:** While chickpeas are more helpful for kidney stones, health experts believe that chickpeas can also help prevent the formation of kidney stones. Therefore, regular chickpea consumption is thought to prevent kidney stone problems.
**Benefi cial for Liver Diseases:** Similar to kidney health, chickpeas can be benefi cial for liver health. However, it’s important to consume them in moderation and not excessively.
**For Jaundice:** Chickpeas are benefi cial for jaundice, but it’s worth noting that chickpeas and their derivatives, like roasted chickpeas, can be more eff ective for jaundice problems when consumed in moderation.
**White Chickpea’s Benefi ts**
White chickpeas, another type of chickpea, provide almost the same benefi ts as chickpeas and are recommended for those looking to lose weight. They are used more often in diets and can help with weight loss by reducing the desire to eat and keeping you full for longer periods. Additionally, white chickpeas are low in fat, so consuming them does not lead to weight gain.
**White Chickpeas Support Digestive Health:** White chickpeas, due to their acidic properties, help maintain stomach health and keep stomach acid levels at a healthy level.
**Breastfeeding:** Some health experts suggest that white chickpeas can increase breast milk production in nursing mothers.
Chickpeas’ Side Eff ects
Chickpeas are generally a safe food source for health. However, some individuals may experience side eff ects, particularly those with sensitive digestive systems. Possible side eff ects of chickpea consumption can include: **Gas and Cramps:** In some people, especially those with sensitive digestive systems, chickpea consumption can lead to excessive gas and cramping.
**Digestive Discomfort:** Due to their high dietary fi ber content, chickpeas can cause gas and bloating in some individuals.
**Indigestion:** Excessive consumption of chickpeas can lead to indigestion, bloating, and excessive gas.
**Sensitivity and Allergies:** Chickpea allergies are rare but can occur. Individuals with known legume allergies should exercise caution when consuming chickpeas.
**G6PD Defi ciency:** Individuals with G6PD defi ciency should avoid excessive consumption of chickpeas, as they can trigger a hemolytic reaction in some cases.
Recommendations
Chickpeas are a safe and nutritious food source for most people. However, individuals with sensitive digestive