The most common misconception about lentils is that they are a kind of peas or beans. The truth is, they do look like peas and beans, albeit they have two lentil seeds inside. They are small and flat, and they split easily when they are cut into two. They cannot be eaten fresh, and they are mostly boiled for various dishes.

There are about a hundred varieties of lentils, ranging from yellow to orange, red to green and brown to black. They are used around the world, but are more popular in Eastern Europe and India.

Lentils are very rich in protein, folic acid and both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber. They are also very high in vitamin C and B, and they also contain eight of the essential amino acids. They also contain many minerals, as well as they are a high source of antioxidants. Lentils help to lower cholesterol, fight diabetes and prevent digestion problems. They are also great factors in weight loss, cancer and heart prevention.