Raw lentils, like other legumes, contain a protein called lectin that binds to your digestive tract and can result in several toxic reactions, such as diarrhea and vomiting.
Multiple servings of lentils can cause flatulence, as fiber is not digested in the small intestine and must be broken down into gas by the large intestine. In addition, lentils contain antinutritional elements that the body cannot digest, such as hemagglutinins, oligosaccharides and trypsin inhibitors.
Can you eat lentils if you have IBS?
Beans may be known as the “musical fruit” in the funny children’s rhyme, but if you suffer from IBS, eating them is not likely to make you feel like laughing —and that goes for lentils, too. These foods tend to be difficult for people with IBS to digest, and they often cause gas, bloating, cramping and diarrhea.
Are lentils good for digestion?
Lentils are an excellent source of dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble. For good health, women should strive for an intake of at least 21 to 25 grams of fiber a day, while men should aim for a daily amount of 30 to 38 grams.
You might be thinking “Are lentils good for acidic gut bacteria?”
When the digestive system becomes too acidic — from eating processed foods high in sugar or fried foods, for example — an imbalance in bacteria develops that can lead to numerous health problems. Lentils help combat the acidic environment of the gut and promote healthy bacterial growth.
What are the health benefits of lentils?
In addition to being digested slowly by the body, and adding to your fiber intake, lentils are also an alkaline food, and have a host of vitamins and minerals. You’ll get the best benefit by cooking them at home rather than buying them in a can, and it’s not a daunting task – you simply boil them until they’re al dente.
What do lentils taste like?
The flavor of lentils is described as being nutty and earthy. They’re mild overall and tend to blend easily into recipes. Lentils are considered a top “ functional food ” due to their high nutritive value, polyphenols, minerals, fiber and other bioactive compounds.
By the way, lentils are not only alkaline, but also a great source of fiber, foliate and magnesium.
What do alkaline foods taste like?
Alkaline foods therefore don’t have a specific taste to them when you eat them, and there’s no flavor cues as to whether a food is alkaline or acidic. For example, oranges have citric acid but are alkaline forming, so basically they can taste like just about anything.