how much protein in 100g of chana - #38066
I am really confused about my diet lately. I started switching to more plant-based foods and chana has become one of my go-to staples, but I read some conflicting info online. Like, how much protein in 100g of chana, really? I mean, I love it—make chana masala or toss them in salads, but I’m trying to boost my protein intake since I’ve been feeling a bit sluggish and tired, ya know? I’ve been tracking everything I eat and thought this would help me feel more energetic, but I just can’t seem to get a straight answer. Some sources say there’s like 20 grams of protein, while others claim it's less. Just feeling overwhelmed trying to figure out how much protein in 100g of chana actually works for my meal planning. Also, is it better to eat them sprouted or cooked? I notice I feel kinda bloated if I overdo it. Trying to figure it out as I prep for my veggie bowl this week. Should I focus on having chana every day, or mix it up with other protein sources? Just Honestly, I really wanna get this right. Any advice?
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Doctors' responses
In 100 grams of cooked chana (or chickpeas), you’re generally looking at about 8-9 grams of protein. If you’re consuming them dry, the protein content is higher – around 19 grams, but remember that this increases weight with cooking as they absorb water. The variability in online information might arise from whether they’re talking about dry or cooked chickpeas, so always check the specifics.
Chana is a wonderful source of plant-based protein, also offering fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Your feeling sluggish could indicate more than just needing protein – it may relate to your agni (digestive fire) or dosha imbalances. You mentioned feeling bloated, which can indicate issues with digestion. Ayurveda considers chana a bit harder to digest, so it’s vital to consume it in a way that supports your body.
For everyday consumption, consider incorporating both cooked and sprouted forms. Sprouted chana can be easier on the digestion due to the breakdown of complex sugars during sprouting, but some prefer the taste and texture of cooked chickpeas in meals. You can try both to see which feels better for your digestion, but be mindful not to overdo it to avoid discomfort.
A key is to balance them in your diet along with other sources of plant-based proteins like lentils, beans, and quinoa. Besides focusing on just chana, variety can enhance your nutrition profile. Remember to season with heating spices like cumin, ginger, or asafoetida – these are known to enhance digestion and minimize bloating. Consider soaking chana overnight and cooking it with these spices to aid digestion.
Tracking your meals is a good practice. Try also to note what makes you feel energetic or sluggish – this might help identify patterns or trigger foods. You could mix up your protein sources to keep meals diverse and broadly nutritious. If sluggishness continues, consider checking with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues beyond dietary changes. Sometimes, insightful adjustments in meal timing or lifestyle can invigorate prana and energy just as effectively.

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