An NHS doctor has hailed the properties of chickpeas, describing them as “relatively cheap and accessible” before detailing their many health benefits.
Dr Amir Khan highlighted the high protein and fibre content of the legume, explaining that these nutrients work in tandem to “slow down digestion”, promoting a feeling of fullness. In a TikTok video, he further explained: “Chickpeas can also manage your blood sugars.”
He elaborated on this point, noting their low glycaemic index and how the fibre slows carbohydrate absorption, leading to a steady rise in blood sugar levels rather than a sharp spike. The doctor also praised the soluble fibre found in chickpeas, which forms a “gel-like” substance in the digestive tract, beneficial for gut-friendly bacteria and potentially reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and the risk of bowel cancer.
Not stopping there, Dr Khan revealed that chickpeas are a rich source of magnesium and potassium, which “may help support heart health and lower blood pressure”. And he added yet another benefit to the already extensive list of reasons to include chickpeas in your diet, highlighting their potential role in cancer prevention.
“Eating chickpeas also promotes your body’s production of something called butyrate,” he explained. “This is a fatty acid which may reduce inflammation in the large bowel – possibly decreasing your risk of bowel cancer.”
Concluding, Dr Khan praised chickpeas as an excellent source of iron, essential for maintaining healthy red blood cells, and shared his personal preference: “So, eat them as hummus, add them to salads, or do what I do – straight out of a tin with some chilli flakes, they’re delicious.”
Dr Khan’s followers have expressed their appreciation for his nutritional insights. One follower commented: “I will be increasing these in my meals for sure. Love these tips, please keep them coming.”
Another wrote: “I love watching your videos so educational and you have such amazing energy and passion.” Several other TikTok users offered their own scrumptious chickpea recipes, meanwhile.
One person revealed: “I cover them in vegetable oil, salt and pepper and curry powder and roast in the oven. Gorgeous,” A second added: “Chickpea and spinach curry is my twice a week meal.” Whilst a third declared: “Chickpea and lentil dhal is one of favourite things to eat. Delicious!”
According to current NHS guidelines, most of us should aim for at least 30g of fibre a day. While most of us fall short, 100g of boiled chickpeas contains 8g of fibre. Research shows that the fibre and other nutrients found in chickpeas are so important because they could help lower the risk of developing conditions like heart disease.