Hummus, a creamy dip from the Middle East has earned a reputation as a clean, healthy food—and it deserves it! Each of the main ingredients–chickpeas, tahini (sesame paste), garlic, and olive oil–have their own health benefits. And for those with food sensitivities, traditional hummus is gluten-free, nut free, and dairy free. If you have those particular food allergies then you’ll be happy to know that hummus is still something you can eat freely.
Store-bought hummus sometimes high in sodium, but it’s really simple to make at home. You’d be surprised at all of the different varieties you can create. Add veggies, herbs, spices, and whatever you want to create a hummus to suit your taste buds. So there’s really no excuse not to make some now! Check out these easy hummus recipes.
Here are some of the impressive health benefits of hummus.
BETTER DIGESTIVE HEALTH
Hummus can keep you regular due to its high fiber content.
PACKED WITH PROTEIN
Because it has a high amount of protein, hummus can aid in improving your bone, muscle, and skin health. It’s an awesome addition for vegetarians who are looking for ways to add more protein to their diets.
LOWERS CHOLESTERAL; FIGHTS CANCER
Hummus is made from chickpeas (a/k/a garbanzo beans) and beans in general have nutrients in them that can help lower your cholesterol. Beans also have cancer-preventing properties and they are high in antioxidants.
PROMOTES BETTER BONE HEALTH
The calcium from the chickpeas and tahini in hummus can help your bones grow stronger and help avoid osteoporosis.
ALLEVIATES ANEMIA
You can combat anemia with the iron in the chickpeas and tahini.
HEALTHIER SUBSTITUTION
Besides using it as a dip for raw veggies instead of ranch dressing, substitute hummus for mayo or mix it with broth or water until it’s thin enough to be used as salad dressing.
BALANCES BLOOD SUGAR
Because hummus is packed with protein, it fills you up, but without your blood sugar spiking.