DavidWolfe.comWhether you’re going gluten free or you want to add a boost of nutrition to your backed goods, chickpea flour fills the bill.
Flour made from roasted, ground chickpeas boasts all of the same health benefits as chickpeas, of course. It’s made from one simple ingredient! And swapping out your regular flours for chickpea flour can help boost your fiber intake, reduce your gluten intake, and help you add a bit more protein to your diet. Added health benefits include improved heart health, diabetes prevention, improved immune function, and more.
Chickpea Flour Health Benefits
1. Provides the Body with Fiber
Chickpea flour health benefits include an increased fiber intake. Chickpeas contain about 12.5 grams of dietary fiber for every one cup cooked. As a high-fiber food, studies have shown that chickpea flour health benefits include a lower risk of diabetes, obesity and colon cancer. (1)
2. Improves Heart Health
Chickpea flour health benefits include improved heart health. Chickpeas are high in fiber and other nutrients that help balance cholesterol levels, reduce hypertension and protect the heart from disease. So flour made from chickpeas can help decrease the risk of a heart attack or stroke by lowering total cholesterol and triglycerides. Furthermore, studies have shown that the polyphenols in chickpeas help naturally lower cholesterol levels to reduce risk factors for metabolic syndrome, heart disease, and diabetes. (2)
3. Stabilizes Blood Sugar
Thanks to the soluble fiber it contains, chickpea flour stabilizes blood sugar levels. Soluble fiber helps lower cholesterol levels and naturally slows the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. Therefore, it also naturally protects against diabetes. It works to prevent spikes and dips in blood sugar levels that can help reverse diabetes.
4. Aids in Weight Loss
Chickpea flour health benefits include the ability to aid in weight loss. High-fiber foods that are low in calories, like chickpeas, can help fill the stomach and reduce hunger. This flour also contains protein, which helps to curb food cravings and prevent overeating. High-fiber and high-protein foods are beneficial options for those who are on a weight loss plan, and for those who are attempting to maintain a healthy weight. (3)
5. Improves Immune Function
Chickpea flour health benefits include the ability to lower inflammation and improve immune function. As an anti-inflammatory food, chickpea flour has been shown to have positive effects against certain types of cancer, including stomach, colon and kidney cancer. The fiber in chickpea flour helps draw toxins out of the digestive tract to fight inflammation and free radical damage. (4)
6. Free of Gluten
As a bean instead of a grain, chickpeas are naturally gluten free. Therefore, the flour works as an alternative for those who have a gluten allergy, sensitivity or intolerance. Chickpea flour offers a gluten-free form of protein, as well as a high fiber content. It can be used in cooking or baking. This flour can also be used in dishes like hummus, falafel, pancakes, empanadas, pizza crusts and crackers. Enjoy a gluten-free option with an undetectable taste difference.