Is It Okay to Eat Hummus Every Day? 10 Benefits, Pregnancy (2024)

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Is It Okay to Eat Hummus Every Day? 10 Benefits, Pregnancy (1)

Hummus is a truly nutritious snack that is good to include in your daily diet in moderation and when combined with a diverse range of food.

Hummus can be a part of the daily diet if consumed in moderation, and the rest of the diet contains a diverse range of foods. It is a truly nutritious snack that combines protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

According to a 2016 study, people who eat hummus regularly consume more fiber, as well as a variety of nutrients, such as folate, magnesium, potassium, iron, and vitamins A, E, and C.

  • While hummus is a very healthy snack option, it should not be consumed in large quantities.
  • Even though it is low in fat, it contains calories. According to the US Department of Agriculture, one cup of hummus (246 grams) contains approximately 408 calories.
  • Too much hummus can cause stomach problems, such as diarrhea and bloating, in some people.
  • Hummus is a nutrient-dense food that, when consumed in moderation and as part of a healthy eating pattern, can help manage weight.

10 health benefits of eating hummus daily

People in the United States have only recently begun to incorporate hummus into their daily diet. When dining out at ethnic restaurants, health-conscious people prefer hummus to fatty dips and spreads laden with mayonnaise.

  1. Mood enhancer
    • Hummus contains a whopping 20 types of amino acids, including tryptophan, phenylalanine, and tyrosine. This helps produce serotonin, which improves mood.
    • Hummus contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to help with minor mood disorders, such as anxiety and depression.
  2. Fights Inflammation
    • Excessive inflammation is associated with several chronic diseases.
    • Hummus contains many anti-inflammatory ingredients that are required.
      • Olive oil contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
      • Sesame seeds and chickpea decrease inflammation in the body.
  3. Aids in weight management
    • Hummus, which is high in nutrients and protein, can help with weight loss.
    • The high fiber content prevents overeating and weight gain, especially around the organs.
    • The spread helps balance blood sugar levels and fights cravings and overeating.
  4. Prevents anemia
    • Chickpeas are high in iron, which aids in the transport of oxygen to red blood cells throughout the body.
    • Including hummus in the daily diet is a healthy way to combat iron deficiency and avoid anemia.
  5. May help prevent cardiovascular disease
    • Soluble fiber is well-known for its ability to lower total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein or "bad" cholesterol, which are the two key biomarkers of cardiovascular disease.
    • Hummus contains chickpeas, which are high in soluble fiber and thus, beneficial in the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases.
    • Traditional hummus is made with olive oil, which raises high-density lipoprotein or "good" cholesterol and has antioxidant activity, which reduces inflammation associated with cardiovascular disease.
  6. Strengthens bones and muscles
    • Hummus, which is high in protein, helps build strength and develop bones and muscles.
    • Hummus is high in bone-building minerals, such as calcium, zinc, copper, phosphorus, magnesium, and selenium.
  7. Helps the digestive system
    • Hummus' ingredients provide the body with the fiber that helps the digestive system to function more efficiently.
    • Furthermore, the ingredients in hummus promote the growth and activity of good bacteria in the gut.
  8. Controls blood sugar level
    • Hummus' main ingredient is chickpea, which has a low glycemic index.
    • Hummus contains special fats that slow the release of sugar in the bloodstream. As a result, the blood sugar level remains within a healthy range.
  9. Reduces cancer risk
    • Foods high in folate and fiber, such as chickpeas, promote healthy cell division and lower the risk of colorectal cancer.
    • Hummus contains compounds, such as phytic acid and saponins, that aid in the prevention of cancer cell growth.
  10. Fights infections
    • Lemons and garlic, both common ingredients in hummus, are high in antioxidants, and cleansing properties. Similarly, the ingredients boost immune function and aid in the defense against bacteria and viruses.

Is it safe to eat hummus during pregnancy?

It is perfectly safe to consume hummus while pregnant. Hummus is essentially made from mashed chickpeas, olive oil, lemon, and garlic. All of these ingredients are safe to consume while pregnant, and each has its own set of health benefits. When they combine to make hummus, they create a highly nutrient-dense spread.

Hummus is rich in folic acid. When a person is pregnant, they require more folic acid. The acid lowers the child's chances of developing neural tube defects. These flaws are usually associated with the spinal cord and the brain.

Commercial hummus processing can change the nutritional profile of hummus. To reap the most health benefits, prepare it at home or purchase commercially prepared products that contain the same ingredients as traditionally prepared hummus (chickpeas, olive oil, lemon, and spices).

Hummus is good for health as long as people eat it in moderation and don't eat it with added ingredients, such as sugar.

SLIDESHOW Foods That Aren't as Healthy as You Think See Slideshow

References

Image Source: Getty Images

Davis B. Is it bad to eat hummus every day? MVOrganizing. https://www.mvorganizing.org/is-it-bad-to-eat-hummus-everyday/

Food FAQ. Is hummus fattening? (can you eat it everyday?) https://foodfaq.org/is-hummus-fattening/

Reister EJ, Belote LN, Leidy HJ. The Benefits of Including Hummus and Hummus Ingredients into the American Diet to Promote Diet Quality and Health: A Comprehensive Review. Nutrients. 2020;12(12):3678. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7760696/

Is It Okay to Eat Hummus Every Day? 10 Benefits, Pregnancy (2024)

FAQs

Is It Okay to Eat Hummus Every Day? 10 Benefits, Pregnancy? ›

Is it safe to eat hummus during pregnancy? It is perfectly safe to consume hummus while pregnant. Hummus is essentially made from mashed chickpeas, olive oil, lemon, and garlic. All of these ingredients are safe to consume while pregnant, and each has its own set of health benefits.

Is hummus good for pregnancy? ›

Raw sesame seeds are also a salmonella risk so avoid eating sesame seeds and ready to eat products such as tahini, halva and hummus. Sesame seeds that have been heat treated are safe to eat. Toxoplamosis is an infection that can cause brain and eye damage in the baby.

Is hummus healthy enough to eat daily? ›

While it's a decent amount to get you toward that daily fiber goal, it won't wreck your digestive system. It's all about moderation. Individual food sensitivities aside, chickpeas and hummus are perfectly safe to consume as long as they don't make up your entire meal.

What are the benefits of hummus? ›

Hummus is a versatile ingredient and a good source of fiber, along with vitamins and minerals like manganese, copper, folate, and iron. Thanks to its impressive nutrient profile, it may help ease inflammation, promote heart health, and support blood sugar management.

What are the benefits of hummus for babies? ›

Hummus is easy to prepare and soft enough to not be a choking hazard for your baby or toddler. It's also a great source of complete protein, iron, potassium, vitamin B6 and vitamin E.

Is hummus high in folic acid? ›

Hummus is essentially made from mashed chickpeas, olive oil, lemon, and garlic. All of these ingredients are safe to consume while pregnant, and each has its own set of health benefits. When they combine to make hummus, they create a highly nutrient-dense spread. Hummus is rich in folic acid.

Can I eat chickpeas daily during pregnancy? ›

Chickpeas are good to eat during pregnancy due to its multiple benefits. It is rich in iron and helps in energy production and metabolism. Chickpeas have folates that prevent birth defects in babies. They also contain vitamin B6 and proteins which are good for the baby.

Is too much hummus bad for you? ›

Moore claimed that overdoing it with this dip could lead to gastrointestinal issues, arguing that because hummus is made from chickpeas—a legume that takes a while to break down—eating hummus could cause gastrointestinal inflammation for some individuals.

What happens to your body when you eat hummus? ›

May Improve Heart Health

The ingredients in hummus—particularly chickpeas and tahini—are linked to some impressive heart-health benefits. Tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds, is also high in heart-healthy unsaturated fats like PUFAs and monounsaturated fats (MUFAs).

Why can't you eat hummus after 2 days? ›

But both varieties should last up to 7 days in the refrigerator (for prepared hummus this applies once the container is opened). Like any food, hummus is perishable and is prone to spoilage. When the product no longer smells or tastes the same as it did when originally purchased or prepared, it is time to throw it out.

What is the healthiest thing to eat with hummus? ›

Hummus is a fantastic addition to big leafy salads with crisp seasonal veggies, warm pita bread, olives, and pickled red onions. It's a wholesome and colorful meal for anyone who loves Mediterranean food.

Does hummus burn belly fat? ›

Weight Loss and Our Favorite Dip. Many people worry, and ask “is hummus fattening” as they begin their diet. This is unfortunate, because humus can be a great snack to actually aid weight loss. That's because monounsaturated fats help you lose weight – specifically belly fat.

Which is healthier avocado or hummus? ›

Both hummus and guacamole are delicious and nutritious dips that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet. However, when it comes to choosing between the two, hummus is generally the healthier option. It's lower in calories and fat, higher in protein and fiber, and lower in sodium.

Which hummus is best for baby? ›

Look for hummus with no added salt. Babies under 12 months shouldn't have more than 1g of salt (0.4g sodium) a day, so it's always best to avoid giving them foods with added salt. You may prefer to start with relatively plain hummus.

What are the benefits of eating hummus before bed? ›

Folate, a B-vitamin, has been shown to help regulate sleep patterns while vitamin B6 can keep your internal clock in check by producing melatonin and serotonin. Hummus also has naturally-occurring melatonin, making it the perfect spread for a late-night snack.

Is hummus better warm or cold? ›

In Middle Eastern countries, hummus is served warm, with warm-from-the-oven pita bread. All we can say is yum. So, to put it simply – yes, warm hummus is absolutely acceptable. Not only acceptable, but recommended, depending on where in the world you live (in Turkey, hummus is traditionally served warm).

When should you not eat hummus? ›

While opened and homemade hummus can last up to seven days, it does not mean it will. You will definitely notice that the hummus is spoiled when you see mold growing on it. The less obvious may be that the hummus offers an unpleasant, off-odor and sour smell. This hummus may also taste sour if you decide to try it.

What is one food to avoid while pregnant? ›

Raw or undercooked meat, including beef, poultry and pork. This includes hotdogs and deli meat (like ham or bologna). If you eat hotdogs or deli meat, cook them until they are steaming hot or just avoid completely. Raw fish, especially shellfish.

What dips are safe during pregnancy? ›

include yoghurt-based dips like tzatziki or olive-oil based dips like pesto – avoid hummus. enjoy vegie sticks, nuts, dried fruit and wholegrain crackers.

Does hummus increase fertility? ›

Vegetable sticks with hummus dip

They are also lower in sugar than fruits, so they are a great way to reach your 5-a-day. Dipping them into hummus can make your snack more filling and tasty. Plus, it incorporates more plant-based protein into your diet, which is helpful for fertility (8).

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