All of this nutrition makes hummus a powerful weapon when it comes to fighting disease. For example, it’s good for the heart. According to SFGate.com, hummus decreases the risk of heart disease because it’s good for both cholesterol and blood pressure. One study published in the Annals of Nutrition & Metabolism found that chickpeas can reduce “bad” cholesterol. Polyunsaturated fats found in hummus may improve cholesterol. And the garlic in hummus provides antioxidants, which may protect the body from brain diseases like Alzheimer’s.

Hummus is a great choice for those with diabetes. This is because chickpeas are legumes. A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine concluded that those with diabetes who consumed a low-glycemic diet for three months exhibited improved glucose tolerance when they included a cup or more of legumes daily. In addition, they reduced their risk of coronary disease. Further, hummus is considered to be a complex carbohydrate that releases energy gradually. This means that it won’t send blood sugar levels through the roof. 

The health benefits of hummus may even transcend to cancer. According to Healthy Holistic Living, the chickpeas and sesame seeds found in hummus may be cancer-fighting agents. These two ingredients have been shown to be beneficial in slowing the growth of cancer cells. Studies in mice have shown that these ingredients can destroy 64 percent of precancerous colon growths. Researchers who have observed large populations have found that those who consume legumes regularly lower their risk of cancer by 30 percent, and they have significantly lower risks of colon and prostate cancer. These ingredients contain lignans, which are beneficial when it comes to fighting breast cancer.

Hummus may even help when it comes to maintaining a slender physique. According to Men’s Health, researchers at Louisiana State University concluded that those who consume this nutritional powerhouse are more than 50 percent less likely to be obese. Those studied were found to have a smaller waist, which is good when it comes to fitting into those favorite jeggings.