What happens to your body if you give up dal for a month?

Dal, a staple lentil dish in Indian cuisine, is a nutritional powerhouse for vegetarians and vegans alike. But what happens if you remove it from your diet for a month?

“Without dal, individuals may struggle to meet their daily protein requirements, potentially leading to muscle loss and weakness, especially for vegetarians,” said Dr K. Somnath Gupta, sr. consultant physician & diabetologist at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad on being asked what would happen if one gave up dal for a month. 

To understand the potential impacts on your body, we have to first know the benefits that dal brings to the table.

What are the benefits of eating dal?

Dal is a vegetarian staple for a reason, said Dr Gupta. Here’s why:

Rich in Plant-Based Protein: Essential for building and maintaining muscle, especially crucial for vegetarians and vegans.

Fibre for Gut Health: Dal’s high fibre content aids digestion, prevents constipation, and promotes a healthy gut microbiome.

Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Packed with iron, potassium, magnesium, B vitamins, and more, dal contributes to overall well-being.

Blood Sugar Control: Complex carbohydrates in dal are digested slowly, preventing blood sugar spikes.

Heart Health Benefits: Regular dal consumption may help lower cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease.

Weight Management: Dal’s protein and fibre content promote feelings of fullness, potentially aiding weight loss or maintenance.

Strong Bones: The calcium and phosphorus in dal are vital for maintaining strong bones.

Complex carbohydrates in dal prevent blood sugar spikes. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Potential consequences of skipping dal for a month

Eliminating dal from your diet for a month can lead to the following, according to Dr Gupta:

Protein Deficiency: Vegetarians and vegans who rely heavily on dal for protein may experience muscle loss and weakness.

Digestive Issues: The reduced fibre intake could lead to constipation and digestive problems.

Nutrient Deficiencies: The absence of vitamins and minerals from dal can impact overall health and immunity.

Blood Sugar Management: While non-vegetarians might manage blood sugar slightly easier due to animal protein’s impact on insulin, a balanced diet is still crucial.

The impact of giving up dal can vary depending on your overall diet, lifestyle, and health. Vegetarians and vegans can explore other protein-rich options like tofu, nuts, seeds, and legumes, said Dr Gupta. He added that one must discuss any dietary changes with their doctor, especially if they have underlying health conditions.

Dr Gupta recommended eating 1/2 to 3/4 cup of cooked dal every day.

Dal offers a multitude of health benefits. While it might be tempting to skip it for a month, understanding the potential consequences can help you make informed dietary choices. Consider incorporating other protein and fibre sources if you choose to reduce your dal intake. Remember, a balanced diet is key to optimal health!

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