Earlier this month, India imported 3,000 tonnes of black matpe or urad beans from Brazil and is likely to procure another 20,000 tonnes this year, confirmed Union Consumer Affairs Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh. Tur or pigeon pea is another lentil which Singh had urged businessmen and officials in Brazil to focus on, amid falling domestic production.
Though India is the largest producer and consumer of pulses globally, India plans to diversify its production of pulses due to rising domestic demand. “As we are predominantly a vegetarian country and as income levels are rising, the consumption of protein via pulses is also increasing," Singh said last week, during the Global Pulse Confederation conference in New Delhi.
“To cater to the rising demand, we cannot rely only on Myanmar. We must diversify our risk and production of it could be thought of in Brazil and Argentina,” he added. Black Matpe, popularly known as black gram or urad dal, holds a significant place in traditional cuisines and Ayurvedic medicine due to its numerous health benefits.
From providing essential nutrients and boosting your protein intake to improving digestive health and supporting heart health, this humble legume offers a number of advantages that contribute to a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Let’s consider some of its primary benefits.
Rich Source of Protein
One of the standout features of black matpe is its high protein content, making it a valuable source of plant-based protein for vegetarians and vegans. Black Matpe contains approximately 25 grams of protein per 100 grams, making it comparable to other protein-rich legumes like lentils and chickpeas. It helps with bodily functions, including muscle repair and growth, hormone production, and immune system support. Incorporating Black Matpe into your diet can help meet your daily protein requirements and support muscle health and overall vitality.
Abundant in Dietary Fibre
Black Matpe is an excellent source of dietary fibre, with approximately 18 grams per 100 grams serving. Dietary fibre plays a crucial role in digestive health, promoting regularity, preventing constipation, and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of glucose and promoting satiety, which can aid in weight management and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Packed with Essential Nutrients
In addition to protein and fibre, black matpe is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including folate, magnesium, potassium, iron, and zinc. Folate is important for DNA synthesis and cell division, making it especially crucial during pregnancy for fetal development. Magnesium and potassium play roles in muscle function and nerve transmission, while iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood. Incorporating this lentil into your diet can help ensure you're getting a wide range of nutrients to support optimal health.
Supports Heart Health
The nutrient profile of Black Matpe makes it beneficial for heart health. Its high fibre content helps lower cholesterol levels by binding to cholesterol in the digestive tract and eliminating it from the body. Additionally, the magnesium and potassium found in Black Matpe help regulate blood pressure and maintain normal heart rhythm, reducing the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
Aids in Blood Sugar Management
Black Matpe has a low glycemic index, which means it causes a gradual and steady increase in blood sugar levels compared to high-glycemic foods. This makes it particularly beneficial for diabetics or those at risk of developing the condition. The soluble fibre in black matpe slows down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, preventing spikes in blood sugar levels after meals.
Supports Weight Management
Due to its high protein and fibre content, black matpe can be a valuable addition to weight management diets. Protein helps increase feelings of fullness and satiety, reducing appetite and calorie intake. Moreover, fibre slows down digestion and promotes a sense of fullness, preventing overeating and snacking between meals.