What are pulses? Pulses are often referred to as legumes. I like to call these gems! They include black beans, kidney beans, navy beans, lentils, chickpeas and split peas. 

As I was growing-up, I never consumed them on a regular basis and mostly had them in popular dishes such as chili or split green pea soup. It was during my studies when I learned about the Mediterranean diet that I began incorporating more beans into my meals. As understanding the benefits of pulses influenced me to eat more of them.

Since it wasn’t ingrained in me to eat them like it was to eat my vegetables, embarking on a Mediterranean diet lifestyle was challenging. At first, I added black beans to salads. Since they are flavourless, I thought of adding them to a smoothie. The texture is thicker due to their fibre content so that took time to get used to and eventually I did! Now, it feels like I am consuming a decent meal and my body seems to crave it. With the added protein it gives me a feeling of satiety and the energy needed to get my day going.

From barely consuming beans to consuming them almost daily has greatly improved my gut health. Increasing fibre consumption changes the bacteria composition to the more beneficial kind. Beneficial bacteria means more SCFA’s (short chain fatty acids) are produced. One function of these compounds is deactivating toxins protecting the gut lining. Having a healthy gut microbiome is vital for a strong immune system too. Adapting to one of the world’s healthiest diets took time and so worth it.