May keep you feeling full

Your appetite may be controlled by the protein and fiber in chickpeas. Together, protein and fiber help boost fullness by slowing digestion. Additionally, protein may raise your body's levels of hormones that decrease appetite. In fact, the protein and fiber in chickpeas have a filling effect that may naturally reduce your calorie intake. In one study, 12 women who consumed two separate meals compared their hunger and caloric intake.

They consumed 1.25 cups (200 grams) of chickpeas before one meal and two slices of white bread before the other. Compared to the white bread lunch, they felt significantly less hungry and consumed fewer calories following the chickpea dinner. Another small trial showed that eating pretzels and hummus made of chickpeas reduced appetite by 70% and increased feelings of fullness by 30%. However, further study is required to better understand how chickpeas affect hunger.