Leafy Seeds
Types of pulses
A pulse is an edible seed that grows in a pod. Pulses include all beans, peas and lentils, such as:
- baked beans
- red, green, yellow and brown lentils
- black-eyed peas
- garden peas
- runner beans
- chickpeas
- broad beans
- kidney beans
- butter beans
Reasons to eat pulses
Pulses are a great source of protein. This means they can be particularly important for people who do not get protein by eating meat, fish or dairy products.
However, pulses can also be a healthy choice for meat-eaters. You can add pulses to soups, casseroles and meat sauces to add extra texture and flavour. This means you can use less meat which makes the dish lower in fat and cheaper.
Pulses are a good source of iron.
Pulses are also a starchy food and add fibre to your meal. The fibre found in pulses may help lower blood cholesterol so are good for your heart.
Pulses are often bought in tins. If you buy tinned pulses, check the label and try to choose ones that have no added salt or sugar.