Recommended use: Use occasionally as a source of protein.

Legumes include peas, lentils, (hard) beans, soy and peanuts. Green beans and garden peas are treated as a vegetable and don’t need to be earned.

Legumes are not vegetables but seeds, and they were not part of our natural diet. Seeds have a high concentration of antinutrients. As a consequence, they need to be thoroughly soaked and cooked before consumption. Additionally, most beans have a high starch content, so eat them in moderation.

If you’re a vegetarian, legumes are a good source of protein. For a balanced vegetarian diet, vary your protein intake with eggs, cheese, yogurt and a variety of vegetables (including mushrooms).