Masoor Dal, also known as red lentil, is quite popular in Indian cuisine due to its immense nutritional value and therapeutic benefits. A bowl of Masoor Dal is enough to meet your daily requirement of vital nutrients. It’s one of the easiest dals to cook. It has a mild sweetness and earthy flavour that goes well with all spices and can be cooked in different ways. Masoor Dal is packed with proteins and iron. It is known to help against anaemia. Daily consumption of this can also help in weight loss. Experts also believe that if lentils are consumed regularly, one can avoid many common illnesses.

While it does not need prior soaking, it will be beneficial if you can soak the red lentil for a few minutes before cooking then you can get complete nutrients out of this. In this way, your body will get a sufficient quantity of carbohydrates, fibre, calcium, magnesium and other nutrients as well.

Here are some special properties of red lentils –

– As per food expert and consultant, Neelanjana Singh, this lentil increases the count of red blood cells in the blood, which is necessary to prevent anaemia and keep the body healthy. The folate presence in this dal is a form of vitamin B, which also helps in boosting the count of red cells. A healthy count of red blood cells would also ensure proper flow of blood in the body and a healthy heart. It also helps in protecting the walls of the arteries of the heart and can help in preventing heart-related diseases. Pregnant women are advised to eat red lentils due to the essential nutrients present in them.

– If you are someone who is keeping a check on their weight, then red lentils are a great addition to the diet. Nutrients like fibre and protein, help in keeping the stomach feeling full for a long time. Along with this, it also aids in constipation by adding bulk to the stool and keeps the digestive system healthy.

– Masoor Dal is considered beneficial for muscles and the brain. There have been many researches that show the consumption of this particular dal helps in preventing bad cholesterol (LDL). As per experts, the presence of protein helps in strengthening the muscles. The minerals in this pulse help the nervous system and are good for the brain. It is also known to keep blood pressure under control.

– Consumption of red lentil can bring glow to the skin. The presence of vitamins and minerals helps in maintaining the elasticity of the skin. Apart from eating, you can also consider using it as a face pack for skin care. You can also use it as a hair pack as it will protect your head from fungal infection, and keep the scalp clean and hydrated. The presence of proteins and antioxidants will make the hair stronger from the roads and reduce hair fall.