Before looking at the types of Organic Pulses, let us first take you through what the term ‘Pulses’ stands for. Though the terms Legumes and Pulses tend to be used interchangeably there is a difference between them, so let us look at what that differentiating factor is.
Legumes are the edible seeds of a flowering plant (also known as Legumes) and include all types of Peas, Beans and Lentils both fresh and dried (examples for fresh – Green Peas, Green beans; for dried – Lentils, Black-eyed Beans etc). Pulses on the other hand refer to only the dried seeds of these plants like Beans (example Rajma), Chickpeas (example Kabuli Chana), Lentils (example Green Moong Dal) and Peas (Toor Dal).
Organic Pulses
An excellent source of plant based Protein, Organic Pulses also contain a whole range of other nutrients. The fact that there are no pesticides used in the cultivation of Organic Pulses ensures that it retains all these nutrients. There are many types of Organic Pulses, here we will take a look at 4 of the most popular types and the health benefits they bring.
1. Dried Beans
Organic Rajma/ Kidney Beans
Organic Rajma is rich in Fibre, Protein, Calcium, Iron, Potassium and Magnesium.
Health Benefits
- The high fibre content gives a feeling of fullness for longer thereby helping in weight loss
- Fibre also helps lower cholesterol levels
- Calcium helps to strengthen bones
2. Chickpeas
Organic Kabuli Chana
It is a great source of Protein and Fibre, in addition to Vitamin B9 (Folate), Manganese and Iron.
Health Benefits
- Protein and Fibre helps control blood sugar levels
- Protein also helps in strengthening the bones and formation of new cells
- Folate increases brain function
3. Lentils
Organic Green Moong Dal/ Green Gram
Highly regarded in Ayurveda, Organic Moong Dal is another rich source of Protein, Vitamins B1 and B9 (Folate), Fibre, Manganese, Potassium, Copper in addition to other nutrients.
Health Benefits
- Potassium helps lower blood pressure
- Folate helps maintain the healthy functioning of the brain
- Manganese helps reduce inflammation
4. Dried Peas
Organic Toor Dal/ Split Pigeon Peas
High in Proteins, dietary Fibre, Vitamin B9 (Folate), Magnesium, Phosphorus in addition to other nutrients
Health Benefits
- Protein boosts metabolism thereby helping in weight management
- Phosphorus helps in building strong teeth
- Magnesium helps in building immunity
As we have seen in addition to its amazing flavours Organic Pulses pack in a whole host of goodness, showing why it has pride of place in the Indian daily diet.