5 Health Benefits of Eating Hummus

So football season is nearing the end were getting close to super bowl because we all love the NFL and I can see it now because I used to do it all the time…..hot wings, beer, guacamole, chips, queso dip….Just snacking on foods that are high in saturated fats.

Well for some of us it will be a cheat meal and some of that would be ok to sneak in but let’s not gorge and just over do it. The best method to get through one of these game days when were invited somewhere, we are entertaining a party, tailgaiting or just sitting at home about to get all the food and snacks ready is to prep some healthy and clean sides and dishes.

Today I am showing you a VERY simple appetizer that even the non-cooking bachelor can make. This appetizer not only gives you clean foods but is high in fiber because of the vegetables being dipped, healthy fats from the hummus itself and is so yummy! Check out the health benefits and by the way Sabra so far is my favorite choice.

So the main ingredients of hummus are lemon juice, salt, fresh garlic, paprika, and olive oil….yes its that simple!! Now in order to prepare these shots you just slap all the ingredients together and simply ground down until they form a smooth paste. You can add the seasonings to taste.

1. Health Benefits of Chickpeas

Nutritional benefits of hummus can be rooted down from each of its ingredients. Chickpeas are healthy because they do not contain any cholesterol or saturated fats. They are also rich in protein. Why do you think hummus is a favorite among vegetarians? These are also known to be effective in preventing build up of cholesterol in the blood vessels. Lastly, it can maintain correct blood sugar levels.

2. Nutritional Value of Tahini

Tahini, is full of fat and calories,,,,oh no but read on…. but, the fact that it is used sparingly in the hummus recipe and that it mainly contains unsaturated fat means there is not much to worry about. Just like chickpeas it is also high in protein. Also before I forgot those that need calcium, it is a great source of calcium.

3. Healthy Ingredients in Olive Oil

A healthy fat found in hummus is olive oil. Most people know that olive oil is a healthy fat and if you did not please read this article on how fat doesn’t make you fat. Olive oil has high monounsaturated fat content but low in saturated fat woohoo that is a good thing, remember saturated fat equals French fries. Olive oil can help regulate cholesterol and protect our hearts from several diseases.

4. Health Benefits of Lemon Juice and Garlic

Garlic and lemon juice are filled with antioxidants (you should be taking these) that reduce oxidative stress in the body (you need to continue having regenerative cells so you don’t age as fast). Both also work to improve immune functions and fight off bacteria and viruses in the body. Hmmm, maybe I should add to your smoothies? Nah, just kidding not sure I could hide that taste.

5. Health Benefits of Hummus

Hummus contains plenty of Omega 3 fatty acids that are essential for improving cognitive development and maintaining a healthy ticker known as our heart. Additionally, these shots also contain iron, vitamin B6, manganese, copper, folic acid, and amino acids. Tryptophan, phenylalanine, and tyrosine are the amino acids found in hummus that can help promote good quality sleep and uplift one’s mood.

So as you can see Hummus is just full of nutrients that will contribute to a fitfam lifestyle. Even if you do not prepare these shots for your Sunday football games at a minimum try to include this in your diet by using it on sandwiches and wraps, as dip for raw vegetables, or as side dish for main courses.

Now you all typically after a post if you know me already where do I go? Well, its smoothie time YAY! Comment below those shots look GOOD don’t they?

See ya,

~Pumpd Nutrition