An NHS GP has outlined the numerous health benefits of eating an often-overlooked legume which can be a valuable addition to anyone looking to improve their health
An NHS doctor has highlighted the vast health advantages of eating chickpeas, a pulse he calls “relatively cheap and accessible”. Dr Amir Khan outlined that chickpeas are packed with protein and fibre, which combine to “slow down digestion” and encourage satiety.
In a TikTok clip, he went on to detail how the food can assist in controlling blood sugar levels thanks to their low glycaemic index. “They have a fairly low glycaemic index – a marker of how rapidly your blood sugar rises after eating a certain food – and these have a low one,” the doctor enthused.
“Plus the fibre slows down carbohydrate absorption to promote a steady rise in blood sugar levels, rather than a sharp spike.”
Dr Khan also stressed the soluble fibre qualities of chickpeas, which create a “gel-like” substance in the digestive system and can ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and the risk of bowel cancer.
Furthermore, Dr Khan noted that chickpeas are an excellent source of magnesium and potassium, which “may help support heart health and lower blood pressure.”
The medic went into detail about the wide-ranging benefits of a particular pulse, emphasising its potential part in preventing bowel cancer.
“Eating chickpeas also promotes your body’s production of something called butyrate,” he explained.
“This is a fatty acid which may reduce inflammation in the large bowel – possibly decreasing your risk of bowel cancer.”
Wrapping up his advice, Dr Khan hailed chickpeas as a brilliant source of iron, vital for maintaining healthy red blood cells, and revealed his personal favourite way to consume them: “So, eat them as hummus, add them to salads, or do what I do – straight out of a tin with some chilli flakes, they’re delicious.”
His followers were swift to show their gratitude for the guidance.
One remarked: “I will be increasing these in my meals for sure. Love these tips, please keep them coming.”
Another penned: “I love watching your videos so educational and you have such amazing energy and passion.”
Others shared their preferred ways to enjoy chickpeas, with one TikTok user adding: “I cover them in vegetable oil, salt and pepper and curry powder and roast in the oven. Gorgeous.”
A second chimed in: “Chickpea and spinach curry is my twice a week meal.”
Meanwhile, a third revealed: “Chickpea and lentil dhal is one of favourite things to eat. Delicious!”
Based on NHS guidance, the majority of us should eat at least 30g of fibre daily.
Whilst most of us don’t reach this target, just 100g of boiled chickpeas provides eight grams of fibre.
Studies indicate that the fibre and additional nutrients present in chickpeas are crucial because they may help reduce the likelihood of developing ailments such as heart disease.