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Published 22:48 IST, January 6th 2024

What is bulgur wheat? Here's why you should include this superfood in your diet

Bulgur is a cereal grain made from dried, cracked wheat. Durum wheat is used, but other hard wheat species, like einkorn, are used as well.

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Bulgur wheat
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Do you know bulgur wheat is beneficial for your body as it is rich in nutrients? Its health benefits come mainly from its high-fiber content as a whole grain. High-fiber grains help you with digestion, gut health, and weight management, as per WebMD. Also spelt as bulghur, it has ancient roots in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and West Asian cuisines. Here we are with the list of benefits that bulgur poses.

What is bulgur wheat?

Bulgur is a cereal grain made from dried, cracked wheat. Durum wheat is used, but other hard wheat species, like einkorn, are used as well. When cooked, it has a chewy consistency similar to couscous or quinoa and its flavour us earthy and nutty.

<i>(A representative image | Image: Pinterest)</i>

Benefits of eating bulgur

Promote heart health: Eating fiber-rich foods, like whole grains and vegetables, promotes heart health. One study with 400 Jordanian people found that a high-fiber diet composed mainly of legumes and bulgur helped in reducing the risk of heart disease.

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<i>(A representative image | Image: Pinterest)</i>

Control blood sugar: Whole grains reduce blood sugar and lower insulin levels. Some research indicates that whole grains may improve overall insulin sensitivity. Bulgur wheat is rich in fiber and phytonutrients, which may help improve one's blood sugar.

Bulgur Wheat: Nutrition, Benefits, and How to Cook It
<i>(A representative image | Image: Pinterest)</i>

Improves digestion and gut health: Regular intake of whole grains, such as bulgur, can promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria. These bacteria produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which support intestinal health. Adequate intake of bulgur may also be effective for preventing digestive issues, like constipation.

Weight loss: Bulgu promotes weight loss as a high fiber diet reduces the tendency toward weight gain. Eating fiber leads to increased fullness and thus reduced calorie intake.
 

Updated 22:48 IST, January 6th 2024