What are Lentils?

Lentils are from the legume family and are grown in pods that consist of one or two lentil seeds. There are many varieties and colors of lentils, though brown and green are the most popular in the United States. Lentils also come in red, orange, yellow or black. They are oval, heart shaped or lens shaped and small in size. Lentils are nutritionally very much like beans; they are a great source of dietary fiber, folic acid, protein and trace minerals.

Lentils help lower cholesterol and keep blood sugar levels from rising after consumption of a meal. Lentils are cooked much like beans and are most often found dried (like beans). They are commonly used in soups, stews and casseroles. Lentils are 26% protein and are an excellent source of protein for vegetarians.

Lecithin - An Essential Lipid that protects against Cardiovascular Disease

What lipid is essential to every living cell in the human body, protects against heart disease and improves brain function? If you said lecithin you are correct, but unfortunately many people have never given much thought to getting their daily dose of lecithin. Although there is no recommended daily allowance by the FDA, but most doctors recommend getting two tablespoons of granules a day.

Lecithin is added to many foods such as ice cream, mayonnaise and chocolate bars, and can be found naturally in foods such as lentils, cabbage, corn and eggs. Lecithin can protect against cardiovascular disease and arteriosclerosis, improve brain function, repair liver damage caused by alcoholism, and help to keep the liver and kidneys healthy.

Lecithin