Benefits of Chickpea Flour: 9 Reasons to Add it to Your Diet

The versatility of chickpea in the realm of legumes is beyond comparison. 

In India, chickpeas have been an important part of the cuisine for centuries. Thanks to its wide range of health benefits, such as weight management, better digestion, improved immunity, and reduced risk of diseases.

Our ancestors were well aware of these benefits and now modern science also agrees with the ancient texts. Owing to the fact that it is packed with antioxidants and rich in vitamins and minerals, chickpeas are recommended in the diet chart by health experts. In fact, it is one of the most common food items recommended in a healthy balanced diet.

Health Benefits of chickpea flour

1. Aids in weight loss

One of the biggest modern health challenges that we face today is weight management. Including foods like chickpea in your diet not only gives you the essential nutrients but its rich protein and fiber content keeps you satiated for long.

Studies show that protein and fiber slow down your digestion and promote a feeling of fullness. Protein further boosts the appetite-reducing hormone in your body and curbs your cravings for unhealthy snacks. Another research found that chickpea flour is gluten-free and has lower calories than wheat flour and refined flour. Therefore, it is ideal for weight loss.

2. Can help manage your blood sugar levels!

Studies say that chickpea flour can help in managing your blood sugar levels. Firstly, it has a low Glycemic index (GI). Secondly, it is rich in protein and fiber. Several studies have found that a protein-rich diet can help in maintaining a healthy blood sugar level. While fiber slows the absorption of carbs thus, preventing an after-meal spike in your blood sugar levels.

3. May prevent iron deficiencies

Chickpeas are an excellent source of iron and they can help fight anemia, weakness, fatigue. It further aids in physical growth, strength, brain development, muscle metabolism, and overall well-being. In addition to that chickpea also contains traces of vitamin C which aids in iron absorption.

Thus, it is a great choice for women, vegans, vegetarians, and people who may have a high risk of iron deficiency

4. It’s good for your heart

Studies suggest that chickpea is beneficial for your heart. It is a rich source of minerals like magnesium and potassium. This nutrient-rich food can help in preventing high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol. All of which can contribute to heart diseases.

5. Benefits of chickpea flour for skin woes

“Ubtan” or facemasks were used in India as a beauty treatment to get glowing skin from ancient times. And among the chief ingredients of Ubtan other than turmeric, chickpea flour was popularly used.

In the age of science, certain researches show how chickpea flour works wonders as a remedy to persistent skin ailments.

Also Read: Ayurvedic Treatment for Eczema

6. Chickpea flour for Acne

Chickpea flour contains zinc which fights against the bacteria responsible for causing an acne breakout. Also, chickpea flour helps to control excessive sebum production. Chickpea flour also acts as a tonic that cleans and exfoliates your skin. Thus, it is a perfect remedy for acne.

How to use chickpea flour for acne: In a bowl take two spoonfuls of chickpea flour. Add in a teaspoon of honey and rose water and combine. Apply the paste for 10-20 mins and rinse with warm water.

7. Chickpea flour for Dark spots

Dark blemishes are often the aftermath of acne or even worse, painful sunburns. They can be really stubborn for getting rid of. But chickpeas can help with this notorious problem too. The balanced ratio of magnesium, molybdenum, and vitamin B aids the exfoliation and detoxification of the skin. It helps in repairing the damaged dermis.

How to use Chickpea flour for Dark spots: In a bowl add in some chickpea flour. Add in a teaspoon of turmeric powder and two tablespoons of curd and combine. Apply to the affected area and rise after 10-15 minutes.

8. Chickpea flour for Anti-aging

The higher magnesium content makes chickpeas a good anti-aging agent. Magnesium is helpful in balancing the fatty acids in the body that are responsible for decreasing the elasticity of the skin. This results in tightening of the skin thus, getting rid of fine lines and wrinkles.

How to use Chickpea flour for Anti-aging: Combine chickpea flour, honey, a few drops of lemon juice, and water in a bowl. Apply the mask evenly and rinse after 10-15 minutes.

9. Chickpea flour for Eczema

Itchy inflammation on the skin causing scaly and dry skin is commonly known as eczema. Chickpea flour is not only good for oily skin but also for eczema. The essential soothing treatment of inflamed skin can be achieved by chickpea flour. 

Also, it is a gentle exfoliating agent which does not irritate the skin causing further redness and skin peeling. Zinc and vitamin C helps in collagen synthesis aiding in the renewal of skin cells.

How to use Chickpea flour for Eczema: Combine chickpea flour with milk or cream and a tablespoon of aloe vera gel. Apply and rinse after 10minutes.

Final takeaway

Chickpea flour or besan has been a kitchen staple in India for centuries. And it’s used in skincare is also an ancient tale. From being a perfect remedy for sun tanning to lightening and even toning the skin, the benefits of chickpea in skincare are proven. Plus, it does not have any side effects nor does it trigger an allergy. 

Plus, you can mix it with other potent skincare ingredients like honey, yogurt, turmeric, tomato, milk, rose water, or anything else that suits your skin and you can create your own magic formula. So, next time you think of skincare, you must try chickpea flour.