Indian kitchens rely heavily on dals and legumes, not just for taste but also for daily nutrition. However, not every dal works the same way for every body. In an Instagram post, nutritionist Deepsikha Jain recently explained how different dals serve different health needs, and why choosing the right one can make a real difference to digestion, hormones, heart health, and blood sugar control. Her insights were shared through an Instagram post and video focusing on chickpeas, whole moong dal, masoor dal, and split moong dal.
According to Deepsikha Jain, dals and legumes are powerful plant-based foods that support heart health, gut function, and immunity. She highlighted that these foods are rich in fibre, minerals, and plant protein, making them a staple for balanced meals. However, she also stressed the importance of soaking legumes before cooking, as this step helps reduce digestive discomfort and improves nutrient absorption.
She pointed out that split moong dal, in particular, is gentle on digestion and suitable for those with sensitive stomachs. Because it contains fewer anti-nutrients, the body can digest it more easily without putting extra stress on the gut.
She suggested that adding chickpeas to meals can help support cardiovascular health while also contributing to better weight management when eaten in balanced portions.
Its light nature and anti-inflammatory properties make it suitable for regular consumption without triggering hormonal imbalance.
Including masoor dal in regular meals can support steadier blood sugar control when paired with proper portion sizes and balanced nutrition.
According to Deepsikha Jain, dals and legumes are powerful plant-based foods that support heart health, gut function, and immunity. She highlighted that these foods are rich in fibre, minerals, and plant protein, making them a staple for balanced meals. However, she also stressed the importance of soaking legumes before cooking, as this step helps reduce digestive discomfort and improves nutrient absorption.
Split dals for sensitive digestion and bloating
For people who struggle with poor gut health, bloating, or frequent discomfort after meals, Jain advised choosing split dals instead of whole ones. She explained that split versions, such as split moong dal, are easier on the stomach because the outer skin is removed. This process lowers the amount of complex sugars and anti-nutrients that often cause gas and heaviness.She pointed out that split moong dal, in particular, is gentle on digestion and suitable for those with sensitive stomachs. Because it contains fewer anti-nutrients, the body can digest it more easily without putting extra stress on the gut.
Chickpeas for heart health and weight support
Chickpeas, also known as chana, were highlighted as a strong option for people concerned about heart health. Jain explained that chickpeas are rich in potassium, fibre, and magnesium, nutrients that support better heart function. These nutrients also play a role in managing body weight by improving satiety and supporting healthy metabolism.She suggested that adding chickpeas to meals can help support cardiovascular health while also contributing to better weight management when eaten in balanced portions.
Whole moong dal for PCOS and inflammation
For those dealing with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Jain recommended whole moong dal. She described it as a lighter dal that does not burden digestion and helps reduce inflammation. According to her, whole moong dal supports hormonal balance and does not disturb the body’s natural hormone levels, making it a safer choice for people managing PCOS symptoms.Its light nature and anti-inflammatory properties make it suitable for regular consumption without triggering hormonal imbalance.
Masoor dal for diabetes management
Masoor dal, or red lentils, was recommended for people with diabetes. Jain explained that masoor dal contains a higher amount of fibre, which helps improve insulin sensitivity. Better insulin sensitivity allows the body to manage blood sugar levels more effectively, making masoor dal a helpful addition to a diabetes-friendly diet.Including masoor dal in regular meals can support steadier blood sugar control when paired with proper portion sizes and balanced nutrition.
