The Top 5 Surprising Health Benefits of Eating Couscous
Couscous is a staple in North African and Middle Eastern cuisine. Made from durum wheat, couscous is usually steamed and served as a side dish. Although it may be easy to overlook couscous, it is surprisingly healthy and has many benefits for both your physical and mental health. In this article, we will highlight the top 5 surprising health benefits of eating couscous.
1. Rich in Protein and Fiber
Couscous is a good source of protein and fiber. In fact, just one cup of cooked couscous contains 6 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber. This is great news for vegetarians and vegans who may struggle to meet their daily protein requirements. Additionally, fiber is essential for maintaining good digestive health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
2. Lowers Blood Sugar Levels
Couscous has a low glycemic index (GI) value, which means it releases glucose into the bloodstream slowly and steadily. This is beneficial for people with diabetes or those trying to control their blood sugar levels. A study conducted on nine participants found that eating couscous significantly reduced their blood sugar levels compared to other carbohydrate-rich foods like white bread.
3. Good Source of Vitamins and Minerals
Couscous is a good source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin B6, folate, magnesium, and zinc. Vitamin B6 and folate are important for brain function and the production of new cells. Magnesium is essential for maintaining good heart health and blood pressure, while zinc is important for boosting the immune system.
4. Can Aid in Weight Loss
Couscous is a low-fat and low-calorie food, making it an excellent option for people looking to lose weight. Additionally, the fiber in couscous can help you feel full for longer, reducing your overall food intake.
5. Promotes Mental Health
Couscous is a complex carbohydrate, which means it releases serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and appetite. Eating couscous can help boost your serotonin levels, potentially improving your mood and overall mental health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, couscous is an excellent food to incorporate into your diet due to its numerous health benefits. It is a good source of protein and fiber, can aid in weight loss, and promote mental health. Additionally, couscous is easy to prepare and can be incorporated into a variety of dishes. So, next time you’re looking for a healthy and tasty option, don’t overlook couscous!
