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Its National Nutrition Week 2016 and the theme this year is “Love your beans – eat dry beans, peas and lentils!” The theme was chosen in line with the international theme from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations: ‘2016 International Year of Pulses: Nutritious Seeds for a Sustainable Future’.

In case you didn’t know, pulses are part of the legume family. They include alfalfa, clover, lupin, green beans, peas, peanuts, soya beans, dry beans, broad beans, chickpeas and lentils. Dried beans, lentils and peas are the most commonly known and consumed types of pulses. They have been an essential part of the human diet for many years. Their nutritional benefits are often greatly underestimated. They are not commonly eaten since some people complain that they cause flatulence, that they take too long to cook or that they do not know how to cook and use them for family meals.

[vc_empty_space height=”20″][vc_column_text]The following are messages that support the theme this year:

• Eat dry beans, split-peas, lentils and soya regularly
• Eating dry beans, peas and lentils regularly contribute to better health
• Dry beans, peas, lentils and soya can be used in many different dishes
• Don’t let concerns about being bloated stop you from eating dry beans, peas and lentils; rather take steps to prevent this from happening.
• Before cooking, soak dry beans overnight in plenty of cold water.
• Dry beans, and to a lesser extent – peas and lentils, should be cooked thoroughly and drained well before serving
• Get the most out of dry beans, peas and lentils – store them properly

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Legumes are among the foods that are least consumed in South Africa. Stay tuned for more articles elaborating on each of the key messages for a better understanding on how to incorporate them as part of your healthy lifestyle.

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