BASIL PESTO HUMMUS RECIPE: UNVEILING THE HEALTH BENEFITS
When it comes to wholesome and flavourful dips, hummus is a reigning champion. But have you ever thought of taking your hummus game to the next level with a twist that not only tantalises your taste buds but also offers a plethora of health benefits?
Enter the Basil Pesto Hummus – a fusion of Mediterranean classics, chickpeas, and aromatic herbs that's not only delicious but also a nutritional powerhouse.
The Power Players: Let's take a closer look at some of the ingredients in this hummus recipe...
Chickpeas: The Protein-packed Base
At the heart of any hummus recipe is the mighty chickpea. These legumes are a remarkable source of plant-based protein, offering an essential amino acid profile. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and immune system function, making chickpeas an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain their overall health.
Basil: The Aromatic Herb with Antioxidant Punch
Basil doesn't just add a burst of fresh aroma; it's also loaded with antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. These antioxidants, such as flavonoids and essential oils, have been linked to reducing the risk of chronic diseases, making basil a wonderful addition to your diet.
Pine Nuts: Nature's Nutrient Treasure
Pine nuts, a staple in pesto recipes, are packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and a wealth of essential nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and Vitamin E. These nutrients play a crucial role in supporting heart health, boosting immunity, and promoting skin health.
Garlic: A Natural Immune Booster
The pungent garlic not only adds depth to the flavour but also comes with an impressive list of health benefits. Garlic contains allicin, a compound with potent antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties. It's been associated with reducing blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and even promoting bone health.
Menopause Marvel: How Basil Pesto Hummus Can Help
Women undergoing menopause often experience a range of symptoms, from hot flashes and mood swings to decreased bone density. The key ingredients in Basil Pesto Hummus offer a variety of benefits that could be particularly advantageous during this phase of life:
Flax Seeds and Lignans: Flax seeds are a nutritional powerhouse, especially for women going through menopause. They contain lignans that exhibit estrogen-like properties. Incorporating them into your diet may help alleviate certain menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes and mood disturbances.
Calcium-rich Tahini: Calcium intake becomes crucial during menopause due to decreased bone density. Tahini is a wonderful source of calcium, supporting bone health and potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Antioxidant-Rich Basil: The antioxidants in basil can help mitigate oxidative stress, potentially aiding in the management of menopause-related inflammation and supporting overall well-being.
In conclusion, the Basil Pesto Hummus isn't just a scrumptious dip; it's also packed with health-boosting ingredients that can support your overall well-being and potentially offer extra benefits during menopause. So, indulge in this culinary creation, knowing that every bite is a step towards a healthier you!
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Spirit love and nutrition,
Sara & Dr. Clare x
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FoodData Central, Jan 2019. “Chickpeas (garbanzo beans, bengal gram), mature seeds, cooked, boiled, without salt” Web. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/173757/nutrients [Accessed 9 August 2023].
Lawson, L.D. Hunker,S. M.Jun 2018. ”Allicin Bioavailability and Bioequivalence from Garlic Supplements and Garlic Foods” Web. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6073756/ [Accessed 9 August 2023].
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Sachdev, P. Sept 2022. “Health Benefits of Pine Nuts” Web. https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-pine-nuts [Accessed 9 August 2023].
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