Nutrition

Hummus Nutrition Facts That Proves It's Good For Your Health

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Hummus, a Middle Eastern delicacy, is a delectable dip that has gained widespread popularity globally for its creamy texture, rich, earthy flavor, and nutrition.

It is a versatile blend of chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and various spices. The amalgamation of these simple yet nutritious ingredients creates a savory spread that complements a variety of dishes or serves as a standalone dip.

1. Nutrition Powerhouse

Primarily crafted from chickpeas, hummus dietary information boasts as a nutritional powerhouse due to its diverse array of essential nutrients like high-quality plant-based protein, fostering muscle health and satiety. Its high dietary fiber content promotes digestive well-being and weight management. Additionally, the inclusion of tahini and olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, contributing to improved cardiovascular health and cholesterol levels.

Moreover, chickpeas, laden with vitamins such as folate and vitamin B6, bolster overall physiological functions and support immune health. The dip's mineral profile, featuring iron, phosphorus, and manganese, enhances bone health and energy metabolism. Hummus, with its antioxidant-rich components like garlic, guards against oxidative stress and inflammation. A 100-gram serving of this Middle Eastern delight supplies:

  • Protein: 7.78 g
  • Calories: 237
  • Fiber: 5.5 g
  • Total Fat: 17.8 g
  • Calcium: 47 mg
  • Carbs: 15 g
  • Magnesium: 75 mg
  • Folate: 48 micrograms

2. Rich Source Of Plant-Based Protein

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Hummus nutritional information boasts a staple source of plant-based protein primarily due to its key ingredient: chickpeas. These legumes are a nutritional powerhouse, offering approximately 19 grams of protein per cup (about 246 grams) when transformed into hummus. Protein is crucial for the body's repair and maintenance processes, and chickpeas provide a high-quality, complete protein containing all essential amino acids.

Furthermore, tahini, a staple in hummus, contributes additional protein as it is derived from sesame seeds. The combination of chickpeas and tahini creates a protein synergy, enhancing the overall amino acid profile. This makes hummus an excellent option for individuals adopting vegetarian, vegan, or plant-based diets seeking alternative protein sources.

3. Boosts Digestive Wellbeing

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Nutrition facts for hummus state it to be a harmonious blend of fiber, healthy fats, and digestive-supportive compounds, serving as a delectable addition to the diet for nurturing digestive health. Packed with dietary fiber derived from chickpeas, this savory dip promotes regular bowel movements, alleviating constipation and supporting a healthy digestive system. The soluble fiber content aids in water absorption, adding bulk to stool and facilitating its smooth passage through the intestines.

Furthermore, the healthy fats from olive oil and tahini contribute to a lubricated digestive tract, reducing friction and promoting efficient nutrient absorption. The inclusion of garlic in hummus introduces allicin, a compound known for its potential to enhance digestive enzyme activity, fostering optimal nutrient breakdown.

4. Boasts Heart Healthy Fats

Hummus boasts heart-healthy fats primarily through the inclusion of olive oil and tahini in its recipe. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, specifically oleic acid that have been associated with numerous cardiovascular benefits, including the reduction of LDL (bad) cholesterol levels without affecting HDL (good) cholesterol. Additionally, olive oil contains polyphenols with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, further supporting heart health.

Tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, contributes to the healthy fat profile of hummus by providing a mix of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. 

5. Antioxidant Powerhouse

Hummus emerges as an antioxidant powerhouse due to its diverse array of ingredients, each contributing to the defense against oxidative stress. Chickpeas, a primary component, contain antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids, which neutralize free radicals in the body. These compounds help combat inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Additionally, garlic, a key flavor enhancer in hummus, contains allicin, a potent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. Olive oil, another crucial ingredient, is rich in monounsaturated fats and polyphenols, offering further antioxidant benefits. These combined elements create a synergistic effect, enhancing overall antioxidant prowess in hummus nutrition content. Regular consumption of hummus can thus contribute to a robust defense system, shielding the body from the damaging effects of free radicals and promoting long-term health.

6. Uplifts Immunity

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Hummus helps boost your immunity through its diverse array of nutrients and compounds that work synergistically to support the body's defense mechanisms. Firstly, the high content of vitamin C from lemon juice acts as a potent antioxidant, scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress, which can compromise the immune system. Secondly, chickpeas are rich in zinc, a mineral crucial for immune cell function and wound healing.

Additionally, the garlic in hummus contains allicin, a compound with antimicrobial properties that may help fight infections and boost immune response. The combination of plant-based protein and fiber supports a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a vital role in immune regulation. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory properties of olive oil and chickpeas contribute to overall immune function by reducing chronic inflammation.

7. Helps Regulate Weight

Hummus nutrition info represent it to be an effective weight management ally through its unique composition of essential elements. Packed with plant-based protein and dietary fiber derived from chickpeas, this savory dip fosters a sense of fullness and satiety. The combination of protein and fiber helps regulate appetite, reducing the likelihood of overeating and promoting weight control. Moreover, hummus's low glycemic index contributes to stabilized blood sugar levels, preventing sudden spikes and crashes that can trigger hunger.

The inclusion of healthy fats from olive oil and tahini further enhances its weight-regulating properties by providing sustained energy. This dynamic nutrient trio, protein, fiber, and healthy fats, creates a synergistic effect, supporting a balanced and satisfying diet.

8. Helps Lowering Inflammation

Hummus contributes to the reduction of inflammation through its unique blend of anti-inflammatory components, with the primary ingredients being chickpeas and olive oil. They boast phytonutrients and polyphenols with known anti-inflammatory properties. Chickpeas, rich in fiber, quell inflammation by modulating gut microbiota and promoting a healthy digestive environment. The olive oil in hummus boasts monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting pro-inflammatory pathways.

Furthermore, garlic, a common hummus ingredient, contains allicin, a compound recognized for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These elements collectively work to neutralize free radicals, decrease oxidative stress, and inhibit inflammatory markers. The holistic combination of these ingredients makes hummus a flavorful and effective addition to an anti-inflammatory diet.

9. Gluten Free

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Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives, but it is absent in the traditional ingredients used to make hummus. Nutrition facts in hummus boast key components like chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Chickpeas, the main base of hummus, are naturally gluten-free legumes. Tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, is also gluten-free. Olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, additional ingredients in hummus, are naturally devoid of gluten as well.

The absence of gluten-containing grains such as wheat, barley, and rye in traditional hummus recipes ensures its suitability for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. However, individuals with gluten-related disorders should always check product labels, as some commercially prepared hummus varieties may include additives or flavorings that could introduce gluten.

10. Boosts Skin Health

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Hummus offers a noteworthy boost to skin health through its rich nutritional profile. Packed with vitamin C from lemon juice, hummus promotes collagen synthesis, a crucial protein for maintaining skin elasticity and preventing premature aging. Collagen helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, contributing to a smoother complexion.

Additionally, the presence of antioxidants in hummus, derived from ingredients like garlic and chickpeas, helps combat oxidative stress and free radicals, which can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. The anti-inflammatory properties of hummus ingredients may also soothe skin conditions, promoting a more even tone, so, you can eat your way to healthy skin.

11. Maintains Healthy Brain

Hummus emerges as a great brain food as its dietary information packs monounsaturated fats from olive oil and tahini, crucial for building brain cell membranes and improving communication between them. Also, chickpeas, the base of hummus, are a good fiber source, aiding digestion and potentially reducing inflammation linked to cognitive decline.

In addition, hummus provides B vitamins like folate and thiamine, essential for energy production and neurotransmitter function in the brain. Moreover, the antioxidants in hummus, particularly found in garlic and chickpeas, combat oxidative stress, protecting brain cells from damage. Furthermore, the presence of phosphorus and manganese in chickpeas contributes to optimal nerve function and overall neurological health.

12. Helps Attain Healthy Bones

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Hummus offers a delicious bite-sized boost for bone health, thanks to its unique blend of nutrients. Chickpeas are rich in minerals essential for bone health, including calcium, phosphorus, and manganese. Calcium is crucial for maintaining bone density and strength, while phosphorus works alongside calcium to form the structural component of bones. Manganese plays a role in bone metabolism and helps in the formation of connective tissues.

Additionally, hummus contains tahini, which is made from sesame seeds and is a good source of calcium. These minerals work synergistically to support bone development and maintenance. Regular consumption of hummus as part of a balanced diet can contribute to meeting the body's requirements for these essential bone-building nutrients, thus promoting overall bone health and reducing the risk of conditions like osteoporosis.

13. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar

Made primarily from chickpeas, hummus boasts a low glycemic index (GI), meaning it releases sugar slowly into your bloodstream, preventing spikes and crashes. Likewise, chickpeas are rich in fiber, which slows down digestion and further prevents blood sugar surges. Fiber also keeps you feeling fuller for longer, reducing cravings for sugary treats.

Furthermore, the protein content in hummus, primarily from chickpeas, contributes to increased satiety, reducing the likelihood of overeating and helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels. The low glycemic index of hummus makes it an ideal choice for individuals with diabetes, as it has a minimal impact on blood sugar. Also, the good fats in hummus (from olive oil and tahini) contribute by delaying carb absorption and promoting satiety.

14. May Lower The Risk Of Cancer

While no single food guarantees cancer prevention, hummus offers several components that might contribute to a lowered risk. The base of hummus is brimming with fiber, which feeds gut bacteria that produce butyrate. Butyrate has shown promise in suppressing colon cancer cell growth. Also, hummus packs a punch of folate, crucial for DNA repair and cell division. Adequate folate intake may reduce colorectal cancer risk.

Moreover, the presence of saponins in chickpeas might inhibit cancer cell proliferation and reduce precancerous lesions, as seen in animal studies. Likewise, tahini and chickpeas in the humus boast antioxidants that combat free radicals linked to cancer development. Furthermore, the antioxidants found in garlic, another key hummus ingredient, further support this defense mechanism.

15. Boosts Energy Levels

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Hummus packs a punch for sustained energy thanks to its power combo of nutrients like complex carbs, healthy fats, and high-quality protein. As the base of hummus, chickpeas are rich in complex carbohydrates that break down slowly, providing a steady stream of fuel for your body and brain. Likewise, tahini (sesame paste) and olive oil in hummus add healthy fats that slow down carb digestion. This prevents blood sugar spikes and maintains energy levels throughout the day.

Additionally, hummus nutritional information boasts around 8g of protein per 100 grams of serving, which helps keep you feeling fuller for longer and reduces cravings that can zap your energy. Furthermore, iron and B vitamins in hummus play crucial roles in energy production and metabolism.