5 Amazing Health Benefits of Cowpeas

Cowpea, known as 'chawli' or 'lobiya' in various regions, serves as both a pulse and a vegetable, offering an economical yet highly nutritious source of vegetable protein. Originating from Africa, this resilient crop, thriving in harsh climates, has found widespread cultivation in Africa, India, and parts of South America.

Characterized by its oval shape and distinctive black eye, cowpea, also recognized as black-eyed pea, chawli, lobia, or chori, exists in diverse species, boasting colors like brown, black, creamy white, and red. Notably, every part of this bean is edible, contributing to its popularity due to its remarkable flavor and taste.

# Lowers blood cholesterol level

1. The soluble dietary fiber and protein content present in chawli help in lowering the amount of bad cholesterol levels.

2. Chawli also contains steroid compounds called phytosterols which are quite effective in maintaining cholesterol levels in the body.

3. Low-glycemic-index-diet is quite helpful for controlling blood cholesterol levels. Chawli is known to have a low glycemic index as compared to several other foods. Hence, it helps in controlling blood cholesterol levels.

# Regulates blood sugar levels

1. The rich soluble fiber content of cowpeas helps regulate blood sugar levels.

2. Cowpeas contains a good quantity of magnesium which plays a vital role in the metabolism of glucose and carbohydrate thus, reducing the chances of type 2 diabetes.

# Helps in weight loss

1. Cowpeas ‘lobiya’ contain low fat, calorie, and sodium content thus, are quite beneficial for weight loss.

2. Cowpeas contain no cholesterol thus, helps overweight people to shed excess weight.

3. The high dietary fiber content helps keep one feels fuller for a longer period and reduces appetite thus, promoting weight loss.

# Prevents cancer

1. Lobia contains flavonoids that help the body fight against cancer and reduces cancer risk.

2. The high antioxidants of cowpeas help eliminate harmful free radicals thus, arresting the growth of cancer cells in the body.

# Other possible health benefits

Chawli produces several health benefits, apart from the health benefits mentioned above, it also produces a few more such as treats cardiovascular ailments, keeps fatal diseases away, treats stomach and pancreatic problems, cures urination & bowel-related conditions, delays signs of aging, keeps skin healthy, offers health & shine to hair, fights hair loss, boosts hair growth.

Lobiya ‘cowpea’ also protects from infections, act as a digestive aid, maintains blood pressure, prevents anaemia, good for pregnant women, beneficial for urinary bladder,protects the heart, acts as detoxifier, promotes bone health, prevents cold sores, improves the immune system, and repairs muscle tissue.