Lentils are a type of legume made up of carbohydrates and proteins, and also contain a wide variety of vitamins and minerals. Lentils are considered a functional food due to their high concentration of healthy nutrients. They contain stachyose and raffinose, which act as prebiotics.

The well-known richness of iron in lentils justifies their recommendation in cases of iron deficiency. To enhance their assimilation, they should be taken with some vitamin-rich food. C, like a salad with red pepper or an orange for dessert.