Many people are keenly interested in the culinary arts, so it is very fashionable to cook dishes from many parts of the world. It is no longer surprising that oriental dishes such as hummus are increasingly being served on holiday tables. This exceptionally flavorful paste is a great sandwich spread or a great addition to snacks, but it also has many health benefits that might surprise you.
Where did hummus come from?
Hummus is a chickpea paste that is extremely popular with vegans and vegetarians, but meat lovers also love it. It is difficult to unequivocally indicate the homeland of this delicacy, but the dish is a sensation in the Middle East and North Africa. Three countries are in a culinary battle over where they come from, Lebanon, Egypt and Israel. While the origins of hummus are not clear, it is undeniable that its taste and health benefits quickly gained acceptance around the world.
What can be found in hummus?
The base of hummus is chickpeas, also known as chickpeas or chickpeas, which are classified as legumes. It is sometimes replaced with beans, depending on where they are prepared and from traditional recipes passed down from generation to generation. Besides chickpeas, hummus also contains tahini, meaning sesame paste, as well as olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices like salt, pepper, coriander, parsley, and cumin. Of course, you can also find enriched varieties such as tomatoes, avocados, peppers, etc.
Hummus as a vegan rescue, why is hummus one of the most popular vegan foods? Because it is an excellent source of protein that replaces animal protein. It is essential for the development of the body: it provides the necessary energy, guarantees correct growth and is an important building block for muscles. In addition, protein has a positive effect on the body’s immunity and creates the necessary fluids in the body. Another factor that determines popularity among vegetarians and vegans is the fact that hummus contains iron – it prevents anemia, people who do not eat meat often fight.
Not just for vegetarians. While vegans and vegetarians promote hummus, even carnivores will find something to benefit their health. Suffice it to mention that it contains garlic, which, thanks to its active ingredient, allicin, belongs to natural antibiotics and has a positive effect on improving blood circulation. In contrast, olive oil contains unsaturated fatty acids: omega-3 and omega-6, which are not indifferent to the body. They not only help control blood pressure and cholesterol levels, but they also support memory and concentration, and support digestion.
Bowel Salvation I do not think you need to convince anyone that legumes are a rich source of fiber that should be included in every person’s diet. Not only a substance promotes better digestion and speeds up metabolism. Dietary fiber is often referred to as a “gut duster” because it makes it easier to remove the deposits present in it and facilitate the detoxification and restoration of the natural intestinal flora (responsible for immunity). All this means that a diet rich in fiber not only helps the intestines to absorb the necessary substances from food, but also helps to maintain a slim figure and helps to get rid of extra pounds.
Help for diabetics Chickpeas, sesame seeds, garlic and olive oil are characterized by a low glycemic index. What does it mean? Eating hummus does not cause a sudden spike in blood sugar, which leads to a decrease in the production of insulin needed for its metabolism. All this makes the spread a filler and helps suppress the urge to snack. Hummus is convenient for overweight and diabetics, which reduces the likelihood of insulin resistance. In addition, garlic and chickpeas contain antioxidants such as saponins and phytic acid, which reduce inflammation, help eliminate toxins, and inhibit free radicals.
Hummus is not just for young people! Hummus is very popular among young people in our country, but older people should also reach for it, which will benefit their health. They should be convinced by the fact that hummus is a rich source of calcium, zinc, magnesium and selenium. These elements support the correct structure of bones, which reduces the likelihood of osteoporosis. It should not be forgotten that they also support the immune system, which makes it easier for the body to destroy germs and shortens the recovery time from infections.
