Chickpeas are part of the legume family that offer many health benefits. They are a plant based protein and starch packed full of vitamins and minerals including iron, folate, zinc, phosphorus and B vitamins and slow releasing carbohydrates. Adding them to your diet often is the best way to reap the benefits I have listed below.

Chickpeas are high in fibre - with about 12grams per a cup. Fibre not only helps with reducing constipation but has other beneficial effects throughout the body. Chickpeas have an alkalising effect which balances the level of acidity in our body and keeps it at an optimum pH level. By doing so this can improve the level of healthy bacteria  and reduce the bad bacteria in our gut. I have mentioned before that our gut makes up about 80% of our immune system - so this is important!

Chickpeas contain a slow releasing carbohydrate and are beneficial to those on low carb diets or diabetics who want to avoid the sudden spike in blood sugar. Because they are a good source of protein and carbohydrates they can help you feel fuller for longer which can aid in weight loss.

Chickpeas contain about 15grams of protein per a cup, so for those who are vegetarian or on a vegan diet this is an excellent source. But unfortunately chickpeas aren't complete protein, as they don't contain all the amino acids. Pairing the chickpeas with another plant based protein that contain the amino acids that chickpeas lack is a good way to make a meal with a complete protein source. Fortunately its as simple as serving pita bread with your hummus or sprinkling some buckwheat, or hemp seeds on top.