As a caregiver it’s important to keep a healthy diet and have regular exercise. It’s not always easy to do either of these things but your health really depends upon you being able to take care of yourself. If you find that you feel overwhelmed most of the time and fatigue is your constant companion, consider getting some help from a home care provider. A professional caregiver for your loved one would mean that you could do some other things and not worry about their care. It could turn out to be a lifesaver for you.
Chickpeas are often overlooked. You see them in salad bars and you sometimes eat hummus, but there are so many other ways to enjoy them as part of a balanced and healthy diet. Here are 6 good reasons to eat chickpeas:
- They are high in protein and fiber. They also have a low glycemic index. These combine to make chickpeas a powerful tool in helping you with weight control. Just ½ cup of these flavorful and nutty little legumes can keep you feeling full for hours.
- You can reduce your risk of developing heart disease by including ¾ cup of chickpeas in your daily diet. They lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
- They are so versatile because you can add them to stews, chillies, soups and salads. They are also good roasted with spices. You can find chickpea flour to use in gluten-free baking.
- These little peas pack a big punch when it comes to regulating blood sugar levels. In a recent study, it was shown that in just one week of regular chickpea consumption (1/3 cup eaten per day), participants had better blood sugar control as well as better rates of insulin secretion.
- They are a good dietary source of molybdenum, manganese, folate, copper, protein, iron and zinc and deliver a unique assortment of antioxidants.
- They give digestive tract support. The fiber helps to promote regularity.
Lemon Kale with Chickpeas
3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
10 cups packed chopped kale
1 tsp grated lemon rind
1 cup cooked chick peas, drained and rinsed
1 Tbsp lemon juice
- In large and shallow Dutch oven pot, heat 2 Tbsp of the oil over medium-high heat; cook onion, garlic and salt and pepper for approximately 4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in kale and lemon rind; cook while stirring for 2 minutes until slightly wilted. Pour in ¾ cup water; cover and cook for 15 minutes or until kale is tender.
- Stir in chickpeas and lemon juice; cook over med-high heat for 2 minutes or until no liquid remains. Drizzle with remaining oil.
The caregivers at Great Care are available to talk with you and your family about all of your home care needs. Great Care is an elder care agency providing quality and affordable elder care in Fishers, IN and the surrounding areas. Call (317) 595-9933 for more information.
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