how much protein in 100 gm kala chana - #23227
I am really curious about something that's been on my mind lately. A few weeks ago, I decided to make some changes to my diet because my doctor suggested I needed more protein. With all those online articles, I keep seeing a lot of mentions of kala chana and its health benefits and I thought maybe it could help me out. But here's the thing – I don't really know how much protein in 100 gm kala chana actually is. I went to the store and picked some up, thinking it'd be a great addition to my meals, but then I started second-guessing myself. Like, am I even cooking it right? Should I soak it first? And, if I do, does that affect how much protein in 100 gm kala chana? My friend said it was a powerhouse for protein but I can't help but wonder if I'm missing out on something crucial. There are times I just want to dump everything in a pot and hope it works out, you know? Anyone out there good with this? How can I be sure I'm getting enough protein if I'm relying on kala chana? What’s the best way to prepare it too? I'm kind of stressing over this!
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Doctors' responses
In 100 grams of kala chana, you’re looking at roughly 19 grams of protein, which makes it a great source for meeting your protein requirements. It’s quite a nutrient dense food, rich not just in protein, but also fiber, iron, and other important micronutrients. Preparing kala chana properly can make a big difference in not only the nutritional quality but also digestibility. Typically, it’s recommended to soak kala chana overnight—about 8 to 12 hours—before cooking. Soaking helps to soften the legumes, reduces cooking time and may even improve its protein digestibility by breaking down anti-nutrients like phytic acid, which can hinder mineral absorption. When you’re ready to cook, just drain the soaked chana and rinse them a few times. You can then boil them until they’re tender, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes if they were soaked properly or if using pressure cooking, it takes less time. Once they’re cooked, you can use them in salads, curries, or even snack mixes. When it comes to ensuring you’re getting enough protein, it’s important to have a variety of protein sources in your diet—think about balancing plant-based sources like kala chana with other foods like lentils, beans, tofu, or even animal sources if you consume them. Remember, the protein quality—the type and variety of amino acids—and how it fits with the rest of your meal can indeed influence how effectively your body uses it. As long as you’re incorporating a mix of protein-rich foods, you’ll be moving toward meeting your nutritional goals. Of course, if you’re entirely plant-based, pairing legumes with grains like rice or rotis can help create a complete protein profile. So, don’t stress too much; just aim for a balanced and varied diet, and consult with a nutritionist if you need specific advice tailored to your health needs.
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