December: Diet and Superfood

Our superfoods for December are beans and lentils. They include kidney, black, navy and pinto beans, as well as chickpeas (garbanzo), soybeans and dried peas.

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Consuming beans and lentils results in these great health benefits:

• Good sources of protein – replacement for meats, which is key for vegetarians
• Low in fat, calories and sodium – healthier alternative to "traditional" protein
• High in complex carbohydrates – efficient source of ongoing energy
• Low on glycemic index scale – doesn't spike blood sugar levels, which is crucial to managing and preventing diabetes
• High fibre content – keeps intestines healthy and also provides a feeling of fullness, which is key to preventing weight gain

If you're overweight, have diabetes, have high cholesterol, tend to be constipated, have celiac disease or are vegetarian, beans and lentils are especially good for you.

Recipes

As an alternative to meat, "Eating Well with Canada's Food Guide" recommends that you eat beans and lentils often. One serving size equals about ¾ cup or the size of a tennis ball.

We hope you enjoy these delicious and nutritious recipes that feature these superfoods:

• Chickpea and Cauliflower Curry
• Lentil Granola Bars
• Mexicana Chili