Pulses

Pulses are seeds that are grown on plants which belong to the leguminous family. The components of this family include beans, peas and lentils. Pulses are old foods that have been consumed for many years. All pulses are believed to contain excellent nutritional qualities.
They often provide high amounts of protein and amino acids, said to be essential for the growth and repair of cells and tissues. Pulses are also said to be a good source of fibre, complex carbohydrates and they are low in saturated fat. Eating pulses is believed to help maintain blood sugar levels.

Haricot beans - They are also named baked beans. Haricot beans are tiny white kidney shaped beans and are said to be the most popular member of the legume family. They are sometimes named pea beans. The reason for this is because they are of a similar size to peas. These beans feature vast amounts of iron, reported to be beneficial for people prone to suffering from anaemia. Haricot beans are a good source of calcium and folic acid.

Soya beans - The yellow variety of Soya beans is usually considered to be a food. Different processes transform Soya beans into various foods and drinks, such as nuts, yoghurt and tofu.
Soya is believed to be a rich source of protein, as it features essential amino acids. Soya beans also have isoflavones, which are plant hormones that reportedly provide health benefits for both sexes. Consuming Soya beans has been reported to help in combating breast cancer, prostate cancer, heart disease and the side effects of menopause. They are said to be an excellent source of calcium and
magnesium, which helps in aiding bone building. They also feature essential fatty
acids and Vitamin E.

Red Kidney beans - This bean is reported to have a distinctive kidney shape. Red kidney beans are believed to be very versatile. They pick up flavours well, and they are reported to be very easy to digest especially if cooked and eaten with different various herbs.
Red kidney beans are said to be excellent for blood sugar control, to help fight against diabetes and may be beneficial for people with a poor liver function. They contain large amounts of folate (folic acid), magnesium and iron.

Mung beans - These may also frequently be germinated as bean sprouts. They are low in calories; and reported to be highly beneficial for the heart as they are low in sodium and saturated fat. Mung Beans are highly nutritious, rich in Vitamin C which may help in strengthening the immunity system, contains B Vitamins, iron, magnesium, potassium, manganese and copper.

Butter beans – Also named lima beans, they taste very creamy. Butter beans feature large amounts of soluble fibre, which is believed to help lower cholesterol levels.
They are a great source of potassium, iron and folate (folic acid). These beans are reported to help fight against cancer as they feature protease inhibitors.

Pinto beans - Pinto beans contain dark brown markings that lighten to become a pale beige colour when cooked. They are packed with the minerals, selenium believed to help enhance good mood, iron, and folic acid.

Aduki beans - Aduki beans are part of the 'red bean' family. These beans are easily digestible and are reported to provide large amounts of potassium, iron, zinc and folic acid.

Lentils - These seeds may be in the colours brown, green and red. Lentils are believed to be easily digestible. They have been considered to help in regulating bowel function and reducing cholesterol levels. They are believed to be a great source of fibre, zinc, iron and potassium.

Chickpeas - Chickpeas feature high amounts of protein which mean they should be a great body building food. They are also very low in fat. Chickpeas contain high amounts of vitamin C, Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) and folic acid. It is believed they feature high amounts of zinc.