Hummus (2024)

FAQs

Is hummus healthy? ›

No matter how you prefer to eat it, hummus is a tasty and healthy way to introduce more plant-based protein, fiber, and nutrients to your diet. US Department of Agriculture. Beans, Peas, and Lentils. MedlinePlus.

Hummus is a smooth and creamy puree of cooked chickpeas (garbanzo beans), tahini and an acid, typically lemon juice. While hummus usually has garlic now, centuries ago it did not. Olive oil isn't a requirement either, but most modern recipes list it as an ingredient.

While hummus is a very healthy snack option, it should not be consumed in large quantities.

Weight Loss and Our Favorite Dip. Many people worry, and ask “is hummus fattening” as they begin their diet. This is unfortunate, because humus can be a great snack to actually aid weight loss. That's because monounsaturated fats help you lose weight – specifically belly fat.

Simply put, hummus is a wise food choice, whether you're looking to eat a more nourishing diet, or lose weight. It's not fattening in the right quantities, and it's a great source of complex carbohydrates, protein, and fiber that your body needs to be balanced!

But both varieties should last up to 7 days in the refrigerator (for prepared hummus this applies once the container is opened). Like any food, hummus is perishable and is prone to spoilage. When the product no longer smells or tastes the same as it did when originally purchased or prepared, it is time to throw it out.

What makes hummus a heart healthy choice? Hummus contains many heart healthy ingredients including fiber, unsaturated fat, protein, vitamins and minerals. Fiber has been shown to help control blood sugars, decrease LDL or “bad” cholesterol, help keep you satisfied after meals and keep you regular.

In fact, a review of clinical trials found that eating one serving of pulses every day can reduce systolic blood pressure by 2.25 mm Hg. Add these tasty and versatile foods to your meals by including them in soups, stews,or salads or by making a delicious dip such as hummus.

Homemade varieties will generally last anywhere from 3-4 days, whereas store-bought brands generally lasts 6-7 days after opening. These estimates assume that it maintains a refrigerated temperature; as we mentioned already, the shelf life of hummus is diminished greatly if it does not remain chilled.

Though hummus is packed with healthful ingredients, you still shouldn't eat a whole tub in a sitting.

Is hummus good cold or hot? ›

Warm hummus: It may sound unusual, but in countries where hummus originated (although we don't know exactly where this was), hummus is traditionally served – you guessed it – warm. Here in the US, hummus is usually chilled and served as a dip with veggies, bread, crackers, and more.

In answer to your question, “is hummus good for a diet?” the answer is a resounding, yes! Eat it for a snack with celery, carrots, or peppers, spread it over your whole wheat bread instead of mayo, or top your soups with a dollop. This tasty, healthy dip is good for losing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle!

Fortunately for us all, most hummus contains little to no sugar. Whew! In fact, hummus is often recommended for low- or no-sugar diets—since aside from skimping on sweeteners, it packs a heavy dose of vitamins and minerals, protein, complex carbohydrates, heart-healthy fats, and fiber.

One Tbsp of regular butter with salt can have as much as 11g of fat; 7g sat., 100 cal., 30mg of cholest., and 85mg of sodium. Clearly, toast isn't as innocent as you thought. On the other slice, 1 Tbsp. of hummus has only 1g of fat; 0 sat., 23 cal., 0 cholest., and 53 mg of sodium.

Move Over, Mayo

It makes a great sandwich spread, too. Try it instead of mayo. You'll get more protein and fiber for half the calories you would from mayonnaise. Hummus adds 1 gram of fat to your lunch box, compared to 5 grams for regular mayo.