Masoor Dal- Uses, Benefits, Nutritional Value & more!
By Dr Anuja Bodhare +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Anuja Bodhare
Last updated: May 6, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr Anuja Bodhare +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Anuja Bodhare
Last updated: May 6, 2024Table of Contents
Masoor dal (Lens culinaris), also called red lentil, is a staple food in every Indian household. It is widely cultivated in warm, tropical and temperate zones for its edible and nutritious seeds.1 In addition, it is an important source of protein for the vegetarian population in developing countries.2 Masoor dal is red in colour; it is split masoor and does not have any skin. The whole masoor is brown in colour.3
Masoor dal is a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, fibres, vitamins, and other micronutrients.4 Masoor dal is the vegetable that has the highest level of protein (26%) after soybeans and hemp.3 Masoor dal is rich in macronutrients, micronutrients, and bioactive components. Its nutritional value is given in the table below.
| Nutrient | Amount (per 100 gm) |
| Calories | 343 kCal |
| Carbohydrates | 59.00 grams |
| Protein | 25 grams |
| Dietary Fibre | 10.00 grams |
| Fats | 1.00 grams |
| Nutrient | Amount (per 100 gm) |
| Iron | 7.5 mg |
| Selenium | 8.3 µg |
| Folate | 479 µg |
| Thiamin | 0.9 mg |
| Riboflavin | 0.2 mg |
Table 2: Nutritional value of masoor dal (micronutrients) per 100 grams Bioactive phytochemicals like flavonoids, catechin, stigmasterol, campesterol, β-sitosterol and tannins are also present.4
Let me tell you about the magical powers of masoor dal! It’s not just a tasty lentil, it may work wonders for our skin too! When masoor dal is turned into a water paste, it might become a secret weapon against skin infections. Additionally, roasted, and milled masoor dal may be a great solution for burns too.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)
Did you know?
Masoor dal offers many health benefits, the components of masoor dal may be responsible for these beneficial effects, these beneficial properties are listed below.
I might disclose some amazing superpowers of masoor dal when it comes to fighting retroviral infections like HIV! They contain these special compounds called lectins, which may help in such infections.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Because of the presence of a vast majority of nutrients and phytochemicals, masoor dal has many health benefits. The vitamins, fibres and flavonoids present in masoor have many potential uses, as listed below.5
High levels of fibres and carbohydrates found in masoor dal can benefit people in stabilising their blood sugar levels.4 Including lentils in the diet of the population with type 2 diabetes is recommended as it helps in the management of diabetes. It is also recommended in the diet of the general population to prevent diabetes.5
Consumption of lentils is associated with a reduced risk of obesity. The high fibre content of lentils gives the feeling of fullness sooner, reducing food intake and potentially controlling the body weight.4,6 You must consult a nutritionist for advice before changing or adding anything in your diet.
The high protein content can benefit individuals who want to enhance their protein intake.4 These benefits are not proven thus, you must consult an ayurvedic physician.
Consumption of masoor may also beneficial for cardiovascular health. Pulse consumption may have some effects on the incidence of cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, by having potential effects on serum cholesterol levels.5 These activities, however, are yet to be proved in humans. Moreover, cardiovascular conditions must be properly diagnosed and treated by a specialist doctor. Therefore, kindly ensure to consult a doctor.
Consumption of masoor dal might be also associated with a positive effect on breast cancer in people. Plant lectins found in masoor dal have potent biological activity. They may have anticancer activity. The protease inhibitors found in masoor dal might also have cancer-preventing properties.5 There is a need of more extensive research to validate the effect of masoor dal in humans. Cancer needs to be diagnosed and treated by a qualified doctor, hence, kindly consult a doctor.
Although studies show the benefits of masoor dal in different health conditions, this information is insufficient. Hence, there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of masoor dal on human health. Furthermore, every person may respond differently to these herbs. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor before using masoor dal for any medical condition.
I recently learnt something amazing about masoor dal. They are packed with protein, which makes them incredibly valuable to our diet. In fact, their protein content is closely similar to that of animal proteins, giving them a high food value. The best part is that this protein may be easily digested, and they don’t cause harmful uric acid accumulation in our bodies.
Dr. Smita barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.
Also Read: Gokshura – Uses, Benefits, Side Effects & Precautions
Masoor dal can be eaten as whole masoor dal as well as split masoor dal. Before preparation, the masoor dal is checked for any stones or foreign matter, and then they are rinsed with water till the water comes out clear. 3 Masoor dal is then boiled to a stew-like consistency with vegetables and then seasoned with a mixture of spices to make dal, which is usually served with rice and roti.3
You must consult a qualified doctor before taking any herbal supplements. Do not discontinue or replace an ongoing treatment of modern medicine with an ayurvedic/herbal preparation without consulting a qualified doctor.
Also Read: Safed Musli – Uses, Benefits, Side Effects & Precautions
Masoor dal does not cause any side effects. Still, overeating can cause adverse health conditions like intestinal gas, abdominal bloating, and cramping. Masoor dal has fibre content, which should be increased gradually in the diet. Also, consuming plenty of water will allow the fibre to move freely in the gastrointestinal tract.7
If you experience any side effect on consuming masoor dal, you must consult the doctor who prescribed it to you immediately.
Also Read: Multani Mitti – Uses & Benefits
There is a lack of sufficient data regarding the interaction of masoor dal with any other drugs. Therefore, consult a doctor before taking it, especially if you are on medication and/or are receiving treatment for any condition.
Also Read: Lectin Free Foods: Research-Based Benefits and Lists to Consider
Masoor dal is a good protein source. It is also good for the heart and can help prevent obesity.6
The dietary requirement of fibre depends on factors like gender and age. 7
Masoor dal is not only safe for diabetic people, but it also helps manage blood glucose levels due to its high fibre content. Eating masoor dal is recommended for people who have type 2 diabetes.7 The studies related to masoor dal for benefits in humans are insufficient. Before using masoor dal for these properties for diabetic conditions, make sure you consult your healthcare provider and get a proper diagnosis and treatment. Avoid using masoor dal or any other herb as medicine without consulting your physician.
Avoid depending on one food for your fibre intake. Try to incorporate two more foods to make up for your daily fibre requirement. Involving fruits and vegetables would be a better choice. One hundred grams of masoor dal (split masoor) has 10 grams of fibre.5
After six months of exclusive breastfeeding, babies can start eating solid foods. Cooked masoor dal would be a good source of fibres, vitamins, and minerals for the baby.8 No herbs should be given to babies and children without consulting a doctor.
Also Read: Toor Dal – Uses, Benefits, Side Effects & Precautions
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