1/4 cup lentils, red, dry contains 170 calories. Lentils are one of the most nutritious and versatile plant-based sources of protein. In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value of 1/4 cup lentils, red, dry and break down the key nutrients you can expect to find in them.
In addition to being a great source of protein, lentils are also low in fat and high in fiber. A 1/4 cup serving of red lentils contains approximately 12 grams of protein, 30 grams of carbohydrates, and 8 grams of dietary fiber. Additionally, lentils are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.
By incorporating lentils into your diet, you can reap many health benefits. Lentils are known to promote heart health by reducing the risk of heart disease, improve digestive health due to their high fiber content, and even aid in weight loss by helping to keep you full and satisfied for longer periods of time.
Calories in 1/4 Cup Lentils, Red, Dry
As mentioned earlier, a 1/4 cup serving of lentils, red, dry contains 170 calories. It's important to note that while this may seem like a lot of calories, lentils are a nutrient-dense food that provide a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, the high fiber and protein content of lentils can help keep you full and satisfied for longer periods of time, reducing the likelihood that you'll overeat or snack on unhealthy foods throughout the day. If you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet, incorporating lentils into your meals can be a great way to stay on track while still getting all the nutrients your body needs.
Protein content in 1/4 Cup Lentils, Red, Dry
Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a great addition to any vegetarian or vegan diet. A 1/4 cup serving of red lentils contains approximately 12 grams of protein, which is about 25% of your daily recommended intake. Protein is an essential nutrient that plays a key role in building and repairing tissues in the body. Additionally, protein is important for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and skin. If you're looking for a nutritious and satisfying source of protein, lentils are an excellent choice.
Carbohydrate content in 1/4 Cup Lentils, Red, Dry
While lentils are a great source of protein, they are also relatively high in carbohydrates. A 1/4 cup serving of red lentils contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. However, it's important to note that not all carbohydrates are created equal. Lentils are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which are digested more slowly by the body and provide a steady source of energy throughout the day. If you're looking for a healthy source of carbohydrates, lentils are a great choice.
Fiber content in 1/4 Cup Lentils, Red, Dry
Lentils are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is important for maintaining healthy digestion and reducing the risk of a range of chronic diseases. A 1/4 cup serving of red lentils contains approximately 8 grams of dietary fiber, which is about 30% of your daily recommended intake. If you're looking to improve your digestive health and reduce your risk of chronic disease, incorporating lentils into your diet is a great way to do it.
Folate content in 1/4 Cup Lentils, Red, Dry
Folate is a B-vitamin that is important for many bodily processes, including DNA synthesis and repair, red blood cell formation, and healthy fetal development during pregnancy. Lentils are an excellent source of folate, with a 1/4 cup serving of red lentils containing approximately 90 micrograms, which is about 23% of your daily recommended intake. If you're pregnant or looking to improve your overall health, incorporating lentils into your diet is a great way to ensure you're getting enough folate.
Iron content in 1/4 Cup Lentils, Red, Dry
Iron is an essential mineral that is important for maintaining healthy blood cells and reducing the risk of anemia. Lentils are a great source of iron, with a 1/4 cup serving of red lentils containing approximately 3.3 milligrams, which is about 18% of your daily recommended intake. If you're looking to increase your intake of iron, incorporating lentils into your diet is a great way to do it.
Magnesium content in 1/4 Cup Lentils, Red, Dry
Magnesium is an important mineral that is essential for many bodily processes, including energy metabolism, bone health, and nervous system function. Lentils are a good source of magnesium, with a 1/4 cup serving of red lentils containing approximately 36 milligrams, which is about 9% of your daily recommended intake. If you're looking to improve your overall health, incorporating lentils into your diet is a great way to boost your magnesium intake.
Phosphorus content in 1/4 Cup Lentils, Red, Dry
Phosphorus is an essential mineral that is important for maintaining healthy bones and teeth, as well as many bodily processes, including energy metabolism and cell repair and maintenance. A 1/4 cup serving of red lentils contains approximately 130 milligrams of phosphorus, which is about 19% of your daily recommended intake. If you're looking to improve your bone health and maintain healthy bodily processes, incorporating lentils into your diet is a great way to get more phosphorus.
Potassium content in 1/4 Cup Lentils, Red, Dry
Potassium is an important mineral that is essential for many bodily functions, including heart health, muscle function, and the regulation of fluids and electrolytes in the body. Lentils are a good source of potassium, with a 1/4 cup serving of red lentils containing approximately 250 milligrams, which is about 7% of your daily recommended intake. If you're looking to improve your overall health and maintain healthy bodily functions, incorporating lentils into your diet is a great way to get more potassium.
Zinc content in 1/4 Cup Lentils, Red, Dry
Zinc is an important mineral that is essential for many bodily processes, including immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. Lentils are a good source of zinc, with a 1/4 cup serving of red lentils containing approximately 1.5 milligrams, which is about 14% of your daily recommended intake. If you're looking to boost your immune function, promote wound healing, or support DNA synthesis, incorporating lentils into your diet is a great way to get more zinc.
Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals. By incorporating lentils into your diet, you can reap many health benefits and improve your overall health and wellbeing.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Red Lentils
1. What are red lentils?
Red lentils are a type of legume that are dried and commonly used in cooking. They are small and round with a reddish-orange color.
2. What are the nutritional benefits of red lentils?
Red lentils are low in fat and calories, high in protein and fiber, and a good source of many essential vitamins and minerals. They also contain antioxidants and may help lower cholesterol levels.
3. How do I cook red lentils?
Red lentils cook quickly and do not require soaking. To cook, rinse them and then add them to a pot with water or broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for about 20-30 minutes or until tender. They can also be used in soups, stews, curries, and salads.
4. Are red lentils gluten-free?
Yes, red lentils are naturally gluten-free and can be a good option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
5. How can I incorporate red lentils into my diet?
Red lentils can be used in a variety of dishes such as soups, stews, curries, and salads. They can also be used as a meat substitute in dishes like meatballs or burgers. Try adding them to your favorite recipes for a boost in nutrition!