Lentils
Lentils are small, gluten free, edible seeds of the legume family and pack a healthy punch, rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber, without the fat and cholesterol of red meat.
Soaking lentils activates a substance called amylase, which breaks down complex starch in lentils, making it easier to digest them. Also, soaking gets rid of all gas-causing compounds, which helps the digestion process.
Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and promote good health. Lentils contain phenols, a protective plant compound, that reduces the risk of diabetes, obesity, cancer and heart disease.
Lentils are rich in prebiotic fiber which helps your digestive system to function well, and this fiber fuels the good gut bacteria which are so important for our health. Fiber plays an important role in regulating our bowels and protecting the immune system.
Lentils are rich in folate and potassium, making them a great choice for good heart-health, and for managing blood pressure and cholesterol. They also are a source of iron and vitamin B1, which helps maintain a steady heartbeat.
If you’re feeling tired, a healthy dose of iron can put the spring back in your step. Iron makes hemoglobin, a substance in your red blood cells that allows them to carry oxygen to your body. If you combine the lentils with potatoes, which is a source of vitamin C, you enhance the absorption of iron.
Lentils have a low glycemic index, which helps blood sugar management and the high fiber makes them very filling which in turn helps appetite control.
Lentils are rich source of protein, which makes them a great alternative to meat and fish.
Carrots, Cooked or Steamed
Carrots provide more antioxidants when boiled or steamed than when eaten raw, according to a 2008 Food Chemistry report. Cooking carrots allows beta carotene, an antioxidant that gets converted to vitamin A in the intestine, to absorb more easily in the body.