Eating more lentils may help to reverse deteriorating blood vessel health and significantly reduce “dangerous blood levels” according to a recent Canadian study.

Researchers explain the study conducted on test subjects, shows that consuming lentils regularly, effectively prevents the increase in blood pressure that occurs with age.

The findings show that eating lentils can reverse the changes occurring in blood vessels due to high blood pressure.

Dr Peter Zahradka from the University of Manitoba, lead investigator for the Canadian study, explains this is good news as “lentils are a ‘non-pharmacological’ way of treating diseases associated with blood vessel dysfunction.”

Studies Continue To Show Lentils Health Benefits

These findings are a continuation of earlier studies; a clinical trial showing how eating a combination of legumes such as beans, chickpeas, lentils and peas can boost blood flow to the legs of patients with peripheral arterial disease. The condition is also connected to CVry heart disease and cerebrovascular disease. Meanwhile another study found that lentils can effectively block high blood pressure.

Dr. Zahdradka explains that the most significant finding is that lentils can change the physical properties of blood vessels. This makes them resemble the blood vessels found in healthy animals. Human studies are required however to confirm these findings.

Why Should You Be Eating Lentils?

Lentils are a simple, cost-effective and highly nutritious food that should form the staple of any diet. They have been eaten since Ancient times, with evidence showing that the Egyptians and Ancient Romans commonly included them in their meals.

Other health benefits of eating lentils include lower cholesterol and a reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes. Lentils are also excellent as a source of folate – a vitamin that allows the body to build new cells. They are also a powerhouse of nutrients including B vitamins, magnesium, iron and zinc.

Lentil Nutrients

For best health, it’s recommended to eat 100g of lentils daily. A 100g serving can provide the following nutrients:

  • 45 percent of Folate
  • 36 percent of Iron
  • 70 percent of Manganese
  • 28 percent of Phosphorus
  • 58 percent of Thiamin
  • 14 percent of Potassium
  • 127 percent of Vitamin B6

 

A Healthy And Easy Way To Enjoy Lentils

However, eating lentils can take up considerable preparation and cooking time. For this reason, not everyone has the time or means available to eat lentils every day. There is now a better way to get all the benefits of lentils – by eating pasta; Really Healthy Pasta.

Buckwheat Pasta with Flaxseed for example, can form a healthy meal replacement for lentils. Buckwheat is a a very good source of manganese, copper, magnesium, dietary fiber and phosphorus.

Buckwheat also contains the powerful flavonoids rutin and quercetin that can strengthen the blood vessels, fight inflammation and support good heart health.

Consider The Health Benefits Of Flaxseeds

Flax is rich in healthy fats and other key nutrients that can lower cholesterol and several studies show it can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease.

Lignans in flaxseed can also prevent plaque deposits forming in arteries, while keeping white blood cells from sticking to blood vessels’ inner linings. The Alphalinolenic acid (ALA) in the flax oil can also protect blood vessels from inflammatory damage.

For all of these heart healthy reasons, it’s highly recommended to eat more lentils on a daily basis. And Really Healthy Pasta is an easy and enjoyable way to effortlessly get more lentils into your lifestyle.

Recommended Examples

Really Healthy Pasta – Buckwheat with Golden Flaxseeds – Buckwheat is a nutritious seed that is high in fiber, protein and nutrients.

Really Healthy Pasta is a healthy meal replacement that tastes delicious and is ready to eat in just 5 minutes. Available from Good Health Naturally.