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What is the Oxalate Level in Chickpeas?


bowl of chickpeas

Chickpeas have a low amount of oxalate. Chickpeas, or garbanzo beans, are a popular legume. They are versatile and used in hummus, falafel, and curries. Chickpeas are healthy, providing protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals.


But, some doctors may advise their patients to watch their intake of oxalates. It's important to know the oxalate levels in chickpeas. This blog post looks at the oxalate content in chickpeas and how they can be a part of a healthy diet.


The Role of Oxalates in Health


Oxalates are natural compounds in lots of foods. They can lead to kidney stones in high amounts. Oxalates bind with calcium in the body, which may form stones in some people. Always speak to your healthcare provider first before making dietary changes.


Oxalate Content in Chickpeas


Chickpeas have a low amount of oxalates. This means they can be part of a balanced diet. But how do chickpeas compare to other legumes? The information in this table has been sourced from the OHF database. To find the link go to the Resource Library and look for OHF protein.



Health Benefits of Chickpeas


Despite the need for moderation due to oxalates, chickpeas offer many nutritional benefits:


  • Plant-based proteins are excellent sources of protein for vegetarians and vegans.

  • Chickpeas are high in fibre. They support digestive health and help keep blood sugar levels stable.

  • Rich in micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and magnesium.

Incorporating Chickpeas into a Low-Oxalate Diet


For those concerned about oxalates:


You can mix chickpeas with lower oxalate vegetables and grains. This creates balanced meals. Before cooking chickpeas, soak them and then throw away the water. This reduces the amount of oxalates in chickpeas.


Chickpeas have a low amount of oxalates. They can be part of a healthy diet, even for people watching their oxalate intake. Eat chickpeas in moderation. This way, you get the health benefits of chickpeas without raising the risk of kidney stones too much.


For more on oxalates, check out my blog posts on this topic.



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