Five Reasons To Eat More Hummus

Hummus, a simple dip of cooked mashed chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice and garlic, has America under enchantment. Over the past decade the U.S.market has grown to over $530M in sales as of 2013... increasing by over 25% since 2010. You’ll never get tired of this tasty dip/spread because there are countless ways to flavor it. Sabra alone has 14 different types of flavors. My favorites are the roasted red pepper and basil pesto varieties. While this savory dip/spread may seem just simply irresistible, what you may not know is its also packed with nutrition. Here are five great reasons why it’s completely acceptable to eat hummus every day!

1. Chickpeas are largely responsible for the high nutritional value. They’re packed with protein, dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals such as folate, calcium, magnesium and potassium.  High protein and fiber diets have been shown to help fight hunger cravings. This might be why new data shows that hummus consumers are less likely to be overweight.
2. Hummus is lower in calories (about 50 calories per 2 tablespoons) as compared to many other dips and spreads. It is a tasty and healthy replacement for items like mayonnaise and other high calorie sandwich spreads. Imagine replacing the mayonnaise in chicken salad and/or deviled eggs with hummus for a sensational culinary experience!
3. Chickpea consumption has also been shown to slightly decrease your bad cholesterol levels. That’s awesome since heart disease is the number one killer in the U.S.
4. Hummus consumption is associated with a healthier diet pattern. It’s so delicious that you will be more likely to eat it with vegetables like carrots and broccoli. If you’re dipping pita bread… remember to make sure its 100% whole grain!
5. A small study of 10 individuals showed that blood sugar levels were lowered when carbohydrates were consumed with hummus. This is because it has the ability to slow the rate your body absorbs carbohydrates.

Having this dip/spreadin your diet is definitely an indulgent way help keep you in optimal health! For more information on hummus click here.Also check out my new research publication "The Nutritional Value and Health Benefits of Chickpeas and Hummus" (click here).