In 100 grams of chana, specifically chickpeas, you’ll find about 19 grams of protein. This makes them a solid source of plant-based protein comparable to other legumes, though not the very highest. Incorporating chana more frequently into your meals, like you did with the chana masala, can definitely help boost your protein intake especially if you’re aiming for a plant-based diet.
To balance this better in your meals and ensure you’re meeting your protein needs, you might consider complementing chana with other protein-rich foods such as lentils, quinoa, or tofu. Doing so not only diversifies amino acid profiles but also helps enhance your overall nutritional intake. Add some variety by using them in salads, soups, or even in making hummus.
From an ayurvedic standpoint, chana is quite beneficial as it helps in maintaining a balance across the doshas, particularly Kapha due to its light and dry qualities. However, if you’re experiencing any sort of malabsorption or digestive concerns, ensuring that your digestive fire or ‘agni’ is well-functioning is key. You might incorporate warming spices like ginger and cumin with your meals, which help stimulate agni and aid in better digestion and assimilation of nutrients.
Ensure you chew your food well and eat in a relaxed state to promote good digestion. Also, having a varied diet with sufficient amounts of vegetables, grains, and some nuts will synergize well with the protein content you get from chana to form a balanced diet.
Lastly, remember that while getting enough protein is important, so is maintaining a balanced intake of all nutrients. Always listen to your body, adjust according to how it responds, and consult a professional if you find that your dietary changes don’t meet your health goals.
