is chana rich in protein - #39375
I am really confused about my diet lately, especially when it comes to protein. I’ve always been told to eat more protein, and I've been trying to shift my meals to include more vegetarian options. I started eating chana (chickpeas) a lot 'cause I heard that is chana rich in protein, but now I'm wondering if I’m getting enough from just that? I used to rely on meat for my protein, but, since going vegetarian, I sometimes feel tired and not as energetic as before. Last week, I checked some nutrition info and saw that chana is supposed to be really good for protein, but like, is chana rich in protein enough if I’m not eating eggs or dairy? On top of that, I’ve started noticing that my digestion seems a bit off since eating more chana, which is strange ‘cause I thought legumes would be helpful. Could too much chana be a problem or am I just overthinking? Should I be eating it in a certain way to boost the protein intake? Did I mention I’m also trying to manage weight a little? I’d love some insight from you guys, really feel kinda lost here. Is chana rich in protein enough to keep me powered throughout the day, or do I need to mix in other sources? Thanks!
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Doctors' responses
Chana, or chickpeas, indeed is a valued source of plant-based protein. They contain approximately 19 grams of protein per 100 grams cooked, making them a good choice for vegetarians. However, relying solely on chana for your protein may not be sufficient to meet all your needs, particularly if you are avoiding eggs and dairy. The key is variety. Combining chana with other legumes, grains, nuts, and seeds can help form a more complete protein profile.
In Ayurveda, chickpeas are known for balancing Kapha dosha and may be heavy to digest for Vata and Pitta dominant individuals. Your digestion might be feeling off due to their high fiber content, known for sometimes causing upset if your agni (digestive fire) isn’t strong enough. To improve digestion, consider soaking chickpeas overnight before cooking, as this reduces anti-nutrients and increases digestibility. Additionally, cook them with digestive spices like cumin, asafoetida, and ginger to further aid in digestion.
If you’re pursuing weight management, chana can be beneficial due to its fiber-rich nature, promoting satiety and help manage appetite. However, balance is crucial. Integrate other sources such as lentils, quinoa, nuts, and tofu to ensure your diet remains balanced and you get all your amino acids requirements for optimal body function.
Feelings of tiredness, sometimes, indicate that your protein intake is insufficient or may be related to other nutrients commonly found in animal products like vitamin B12 or iron. Consider getting your levels checked by a healthcare professional to rule out deficiencies.
For a balanced vegetarian diet, aim to eat a diverse array of foods to ensure you’re getting all necessary nutrients. You might also benefit from consulting a nutritionist to tailor your plan better to your needs and energy expenditure.

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