Feel my Pulse for Protein

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Pulses are legumes.  They are an excellent source of protein.  Lentils or dal (Indian word) belong to the pulse family of crops.  Pulses and grains, like rice and wheat, consumed together provide an excellent source of protein and carbohydrates.

Vegetarians in many cultures have long consumed a variety of lentils.  Especially in the Indian sub-continent, lentils and other pulses are very popular and are used to cook a variety of dishes.  Several studies have shown nutritional and health advantages of a diet incorporating pulses and grains.

While lentils are grown throughout the world, India is the largest consumer of lentils and also produces half the world's production.