Hummus Nutrition: Understanding the Facts About Calories, Protein, Fat, Carbs, and Vitamins
Hummus is a delicious and nutritious food that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, hummus is a versatile food that can be used as a dip or spread on sandwiches and wraps. While hummus is generally considered a healthy food, it's important to understand its nutritional value in order to make informed choices about your diet. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional facts about hummus, including its calories, protein, fat, carbs, and vitamins.
What is Hummus?
Hummus is a Middle Eastern dip or spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini (sesame seed paste), olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. It's typically eaten with pita bread or vegetables and is a popular appetiser or snack. Hummus has a creamy, nutty flavor and is often seasoned with spices like cumin or paprika.
Calories in Hummus - How Many Calories In Hummus
One serving of hummus, which is typically around two tablespoons, contains approximately 70-80 calories. The exact number of calories can vary depending on the brand and recipe. Hummus is generally considered a low-calorie food, which makes it a good choice for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Protein in Hummus - Does Hummus Have Protein In It
Hummus is a good source of plant-based protein, with around 2-3 grams of protein per serving. This protein comes from the chickpeas and tahini in the recipe. While hummus is not as high in protein as meat or dairy products, it can still be a valuable source of protein for vegetarians and vegans.
Fat in Hummus - Saturated Fat In Hummus
Hummus is a relatively high-fat food, with around 5-6 grams of fat per serving. However, most of the fat in hummus comes from heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in olive oil and tahini. These types of fats can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Carbs in Hummus - How Many Carbs In Hummus
Hummus is a good source of complex carbohydrates, with around 6-8 grams of carbs per serving. Most of these carbs come from the chickpeas in the recipe, which are a good source of fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Vitamins in Hummus - What Vitamins Are In Hummus
Hummus is a good source of several important vitamins and minerals, including:
Iron: Chickpeas are a good source of iron, which is important for healthy blood cells and energy production.
Vitamin C: Lemon juice, which is used in most hummus recipes, is a good source of vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health.
Vitamin E: Tahini is a good source of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
B vitamins: Chickpeas and tahini are both good sources of B vitamins, which are important for energy production and brain function.
Health Benefits of Hummus
Hummus has several health benefits due to its nutritious ingredients. Here are some of the key benefits:
What Does Hummus Do For Your Body? Do Vegetarians Eat Hummus?
Hummus is an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Chickpeas and tahini are both good sources of protein, and when combined, they provide all nine essential amino acids that the body needs to function properly. This makes hummus an ideal choice for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption.
Hummus Glycemic Index - Is Hummus A Low Glycemic Index Food
Hummus has a low glycemic index (GI), which means that it does not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels after consumption. This makes it a good choice for people with diabetes or those looking to maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day. The high fiber content in chickpeas also helps slow down the absorption of carbohydrates in the body, which further helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Hummus and Heart Health
Is Hummus Good For Your Digestive System
The high fiber content in chickpeas makes hummus an excellent choice for digestive health. Fiber helps promote regular bowel movements and can help reduce the risk of colon cancer. The probiotics found in hummus can also help promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria, which is important for overall digestive health.
Does Hummus Have Healthy Fats
Hummus is a good source of healthy fats, which are essential for brain health and overall body function. The monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in olive oil and tahini can help improve cognitive function, reduce inflammation in the body, and support overall body health.
Hummus and Weight Loss
Hummus is a low-calorie food that is high in fiber and protein, which can help promote feelings of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake. Eating hummus as a snack or part of a meal can help people feel satisfied and less likely to overeat. It's also a healthy alternative to high-calorie dips and spreads, making it a good choice for weight loss.
How To Incorporate Hummus Into A Diet
There are many ways to incorporate hummus into your diet. Here are a few ideas:
- Use it as a dip for vegetables, crackers, or pita bread.
- Spread it on sandwiches or wraps instead of mayo or other high-calorie spreads.
- Use it as a salad dressing by thinning it out with a little bit of water or lemon juice.
- Mix it with cooked grains like quinoa or farro for a nutritious side dish.
- Use it as a topping for baked potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Is Hummus Good For You
Hummus is a delicious and nutritious food that is high in protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. It's also a good source of several important vitamins and minerals that are essential for overall health. Incorporating hummus into your diet can help improve digestive health, promote heart health, and support healthy weight loss. So the next time you're looking for a healthy snack or spread, reach for the hummus!
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