World Pulses Day
It's officially World Pulses Day on February 10! Let’s raise a spoon to the tiny legume with a mighty impact on our nutrition and Earth’s well-being.
Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, pulses fuel our health while being one of the most sustainable food sources on the planet. From chickpeas to lentils, these humble superfoods are here to nourish us and protect the Earth- one delicious bite at a time!
Who Started World Pulses Day
It was in 2019 that the United Nations declared February 10 as the official World Pulses Day. This day was made in recognition of pulses, and their environmental and nutritional advantages which many people are unaware of even today.
Did you also know that 2016 was the International Year of Pulses (IYP)?
Types of Pulses
- Lentils
- Dry Beans
- Faba Beans
- Dry Peas
- Chickpeas
- Cowpeas
- Bambara beans
- Pigeon peas
- Lupins
- Vetches
Nutritional Benefits of Eating Pulses
- Pulses are rich in protein (3x of rice!) and fibre. Do you know that a high-fibre diet helps lower the risk of heart disease, bowel cancer and type 2 Diabetes?
- Pulses also have low fat content which helps keep cholesterol in check.
- They are rich in iron which helps with the transportation of oxygen throughout the body which in turn energizes your body and helps with metabolism.
- Pulses are packed with essential vitamins like B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, and folate), which are important for energy production, brain health, and cell function.
- Pulses are a good source of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which are essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
- Pulses provide non-heme iron, an important nutrient, especially for those following vegetarian or vegan diets.
How to Incorporate Pulses in Your Diet
British Baked beans
Baked beans are a powerhouse of nutrition, offering protein, fibre, iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. They contribute to heart health, stabilize blood sugar levels, and promote gut health while being low in fat. Beyond nutrition, baked beans are environmentally friendly, as pulses require less water and enhance soil fertility by fixing nitrogen.
Vegetable and Bean soup
A steaming bowl of vegetable bean soup is more than just comfort food; it's a celebration of nutrition and sustainability, especially on World Pulses Day. Packed with protein-rich beans, fibre-filled veggies, and an array of vitamins, this wholesome dish fuels your body while keeping your taste buds delighted.
So, as you savour each spoonful, remember you're nourishing yourself and contributing to a healthier world- one pulse at a time!
Chickpea curry
Also called chana masala in India, this classic flavourful dish is a favourite in most of the houses in North India. Chickpeas help with weight management, regulate blood sugar levels, aid digestion, and improve brain function. They are clearly very tasty!
Red lentil and tomato soup
Red lentil and tomato soup is a nutrient-rich powerhouse, making it a perfect dish to celebrate World Pulses Day. Red lentils are packed with protein, fibre, and iron, promoting heart health, aiding digestion, and keeping you feeling full longer.
Combined with tomatoes, which are rich in antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C, this soup supports immunity and helps fight inflammation. This is a comforting bowl of wellness for your body and mind.
Dal curry
One of the simplest and healthiest pulse dishes out there is daal. If you are an Indian, you know just how staple dal is. Rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals and fibre, daal is amazing for digestion and helps control cholesterol levels and heart issues.
Moong Dal Chilla
Moong dal is kind of like a protein-packed pancake made from moong dal. It's light, gluten-free, and loaded with fibre, making it a perfect choice for weight management and digestive health. Often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack, it provides sustained energy and supports heart health while being absolutely delicious!
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