Lentils: Glycemic Index and Health Benefits

Lentils are a nutritious and versatile legume used in many different dishes. There are different types of lentils, including green, brown, and red varieties. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Lentils also have a low glycemic index (GI). 

The low GI of lentils can help regulate blood sugar levels and keep energy levels stable throughout the day. This article will discuss the glycemic index of lentils, how they affect blood sugar, and the benefits of eating lentils. Whether you’re following a vegetarian or vegan diet or just looking to add more plant-based foods to your meals, lentils are a versatile and affordable option for doing so.

{{mid-cta}}

Types of Lentils

There are many different kinds of lentils to choose from, each with a unique flavor and texture. The nutrition each type provides may vary slightly, but they’re all pretty similar. Here are some of the most common types of lentils:

Green lentils

Green lentils are the most widely available. They have a mild, earthy flavor and hold their shape well when cooked, making them a great choice for salads and stews.

Red lentils

Red lentils have a slightly sweet, nutty flavor and cook down to a soft, creamy texture. They are commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine for dishes like dhal and soups.

French lentils

French lentils may sometimes be called Puy lentils. These small, dark green lentils have a nutty flavor and hold their shape well when cooked. They are often used in salads and side dishes.

Brown lentils

Brown lentils share a similar taste and texture with green lentils, but they are slightly smaller and don’t take as long to cook. They are often used as a meat substitute in soups, stews, and vegetarian dishes.

All types of lentils offer several health benefits and make a delicious, high-protein, high-fiber addition to any diet.

Glycemic Index and Load of Lentils

The glycemic index (GI) tells you how quickly food raises blood sugar levels. The glycemic load (GL), on the other hand, considers both the GI and the number of carbohydrates in a serving of food. Low GI foods help manage blood glucose levels, especially when combined with high GI foods. 

Lentils have a low GI and a low GL, so they are digested slowly, and the body’s glycemic response is minimal. This means that lentils do not cause a rapid spike in blood glucose levels. 

The GI of a serving size of lentils ranges from 18 to 36, depending on the type of lentil and how it is prepared. Boiled red lentils often have a lower GI, while canned green lentils have a higher GI. Lentils have a low GL of 5. This makes lentils a great choice for those looking to regulate their blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy weight.^1,2,3

Other low-glycemic legumes include chickpeas, kidney beans, black beans, and peas. 

4 Other Amazing Benefits of Lentils (Besides Weight Loss)

Better cardiovascular health

Lentils provide important nutrients that support heart health, including fiber, folate, and potassium. Research has shown that consuming lentils can help to reduce blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and decrease the risk of heart disease.^6,7

Healthy digestive system

Although you can take fiber supplements to support a healthy digestive system, it’s good to eat healthy foods high in fiber. The fiber in lentils promotes regular bowel movements and can help prevent constipation. Lentils also have resistant starch, which can act as a prebiotic to promote a healthy gut microbiome.^8,9

Increased energy levels

Lentils are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which are digested slowly and provide a long-lasting source of energy. Lentils also provide iron and other nutrients that are important for energy production and can help to prevent fatigue.¹⁰

Supports healthy aging

Lentils are a good source of antioxidants and polyphenols, which support healthy aging. Antioxidants are substances that cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage and have been linked to the development of chronic diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease. 

Research has also shown that eating legumes like lentils can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases associated with aging, including diabetes and heart disease.^11,12

How to Prepare Lentils at Home

Lentils can be added to many different dishes and recipes. Here are some healthy low-glycemic recipe ideas to inspire you:

Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a delicious vegetarian meal that is hearty, healthy, and can easily be made at home. Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots in olive oil. Add lentils and vegetable broth, and simmer until the lentils are cooked. You can also customize the soup by adding other vegetables and spices.

Lentil Salad

Adding lentils to a salad is a great way to add protein and fiber, which makes the salad more filling. Cook lentils until tender and mix with chopped vegetables, such as cucumber, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Dress the salad with a vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.

Chili with Lentils

Lentils can be a great substitute for ground beef in a chili recipe. Simply cook the lentils until tender, and add them to a pot with diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chili seasoning. Simmer until the flavors are blended, and serve with your favorite toppings. Maybe shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.

Lentil Burgers

Lentil burgers are a delicious way to make a plant-based burger. Combine cooked lentils with bread crumbs, egg, and spices, and form into patties. Cook the patties on a grill or stovetop until browned, and serve on a bun with your favorite toppings.

Dhal

Dhal is a popular Indian dish made with lentils, spices, and tomatoes. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in oil. Add spices (cumin, coriander, and turmeric), and then add lentils and water. Simmer until the lentils are cooked, and then add diced tomatoes and cilantro. Serve with rice or naan bread.

Lentils can also be used in stews, curries, and casseroles.

Learn How to Improve Your Nutrition and Manage Your Blood Sugar Levels With Signos

Signos is a great resource for expert advice on nutrition and healthy eating. Signos has a team of registered dietitians who compile evidence-based nutrition information to help you improve your health and wellness. Check out the resources here.

Signos CGM empowers you to improve your health by keeping track of your diet, exercise, sleep habits, and blood sugar. Knowledge is power, and a CGM can give you specific information about how your habits affect your health. 

Find out if Signos is a good fit for you by taking a quick quiz.