Water Lentils

The world’s smallest flowering plant, poised to make an impact in the food & health industries worldwide.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Water Lentils 3

Plant vs. Animal Protein 4

A Superior Source of Nutrition 6

Good for the Gut 9

Diabetes Management 10

11Water Lentils vs. Other Superfoods

13A Daily Dose

Resources 16

2

Introduction to Water Lentils

Water lentils (Lemnaceae) are the world’s smallest flowering plant, found growing above fresh water in subtropical climates.

Contrary to popular belief, water lentils are not a lentil (or legume). Commonly referred to as duckweed, lemna or lemnaceae, water lentils are nutrient rich vegetables similar to watercress or microgreens. Traditionally used in diets across Southeast Asia and as a herbal remedy, water lentils have slowly started to gain popularity across the world as a nutrient dense and high-quality plant-based protein source.

Water lentils reproduce asexually, doubling in biomass every 24-48 hours. Because of this fast growth, they can be harvested daily. The most common species include Lemna minor, Wolffia globosa, Lemna gibba, Spirodela polyrhiza, Lemna obscura, and Wolffia arrhiza.

As the demand for nutrient dense and sustainable plant-based protein sources has increased globally, many companies in the food & beverage, nutraceutical, feed, and beauty industries have taken an interest in water lentils as a new solution. With minimal processing, water lentils are poised to make an impact as a protein source for meat alter-natives, plant-based milks, sports nutrition, health snack and bakery applications.

3

Plant vs.Animal Protein

Today more than ever, people are paying attention to what they eat, choosing to incorporate more plant-based options into their diet, limiting meat consumption. The reasons for these changes vary, from concern for personal health, animals or the environment. No matter the reason, the food industry must continuously find nutritious protein alternatives for their customers.

39% of Americans are actively trying to find more plant -based options

Protein , which is derived from both animal- and plant- based food sources, supports muscle and bone structure, improves focus and concentration, boosts energy levels and provides numerous other health benefits. Traditional food sources labeled “high in protein” include meat, eggs, dairy, fish and seafood. Plant-based protein options include legumes, nuts and seeds, but even popular sources like pea and soy still lack the complete amino acid profile that animal-based proteins provide. For this reason, most plant-protein solutions (i.e. powders and supplements) will contain a mix of various ingredients.

When comparing each essential amino acid individually, water lentils have equal or higher amounts per gram to dairy protein and significantly higher amounts than pea or soy. Water lentils contain this unique high-quality protein offering while also providing a significant nutritional profile, making them a superfood + plant protein.

Water lentils are a unique plant protein solution, containing a complete amino-acid profile.

4

0.3

1.5

0.9

0.6

1.2

WaterLentils

1.08

Whey

1.14

Pea

0.84

Soy

0.99

**AAS: mg of limiting AA in 1g of testing protein/mg of same AA in 1g of reference protein

Amino Acid ScoringMeasurement of Essential Amino Acids (EAAs)

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Water Lentils are a Superior Source of Vitamins, Minerals and Antioxidants

Incredibly Nutrient DenseWater lentils are high in calcium, iron, Vitamin A, and Vitamin B12. They are a good source of zinc and magnesium, as well as an excellent source of antioxidants. Many of these micronutrients are rarely found in leafy greens, which make water lentils a unique plant and the perfect addition to any plant-based diet.

Plant-Based Vitamin B12Responsible for a variety of roles such as keeping the nervous system and brain running smoothly as well as contributing to red blood cell formation, Vitamin B12 is crucial for the body to function properly.

Vitamin B12 is most often found from animal- based food sources, making it a common deficiency among vegans, vegetarians and those following a plant-based diet. New research suggests water lentils are a natural and reliable plant-based source of Vitamin B12, with a daily value even exceeding that of some animal sources.

Micrograms Vitamin B121

Steak WaterLentils

Egg Greekyogurt

Water lentils are one superfood that has earned it’s ‘super’ title.

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A Solution for Iron DeficiencyWhen an individual does not receive enough iron from their diets, they can become anemic. This is when the red blood cells do not have enough hemoglobin to transport oxygen around the body. It results in an oxygen deficiency to certain parts of the body.

Water lentils are a high source of iron containing 7.5x more iron per 100 grams than a 12 oz steak2. When comparing to spinach, a common plant-based source of iron, 100 grams of water lentil powder contains 17x more iron than 100 grams of raw spinach2.

Additionally, a recent study shows that water lentils, also known as duckweed, is a source of bioavailable iron and is efficient in reversing iron deficiency3.

Natural Anti-InflammatoryInflammation is the body’s way of fighting off foreign particles like viruses. However, constant inflammation can cause long-term effects and even has been shown to increase the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, dementia, and arthritis.

Antioxidants have many benefits in the body, one of which is preventing oxidation and inflammation within the body. They work by inhibiting free radical formation and oxidative stress. Antioxidants can also lower LDL cholesterol levels. Therefore, antioxidants such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Omega-3, polyphenols, carotenoids, and chlorophyll are all beneficial in reducing the risk of developing chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

Water lentils contain a high source of Vitamin A as well as Omega-3s, polyphenols, carotenoids, chlorophyll, and resveratrol, all of which are antioxidants that can prevent inflammation. Regular consumption of water lentils can work to fight inflammation and prevent future long-term inflammation-related illnesses.

WaterLentils

Steak Spinach

Milligrams Iron2

Beneficial for Eyesight & Brain Health

Water lentils contain both lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoids proven to improve eyesight and brain health.

Carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin are naturally found in the macula of the eye. They filter harmful blue light waves to protect the macula from breaking down. The amount of lutein and zeaxanthin found in the eye has been proven to be correlated with predicting disease, quality of vision, and brain function4. However, the body can not naturally produce these two carotenoids. The only way to increase the quantity of lutein and zeaxanthan in eyes is through consumption of leafy greens, like water lentils.

Evidence suggests that increasing the amount of lutein and zeaxanthin in ones diet can have considerable impact on lowering the risk of developing Age-Related Macular Degeneration4. Studies indicate that taking 10 mg/day of lutein and 2 mg/day of zeaxanthin can benefit your health4. A ¼ cup serving of water lentils provides 17 mg of lutein and 2 mg of zeaxanthin, exceeding the daily reccommendation.

Additionally, studies have found that increasing supplementation of lutein and zeaxanthin also can prevent symptoms of dementia and improve spatial memory, reasoning and attention span4.

Studies have found that increasing lutein & zeaxanthin can prevent symptoms of dementia4.

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Water Lentils are Good for the Gut

Dietary FiberWater lentils contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. Dietary fiber is reportedly beneficial for satiety, weight-loss, promoting regularity and regulating blood sugar. Unlike carbohydrates, dietary fiber is not absorbed into the body. Therefore, dietary fiber does not provide calories, which can be useful for those trying to lose weight.

Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water, providing the bulk to stool and helping relieve constipation. Soluble fiber creates a sticky substance in the gastrointestinal tract that can bind to chloesterol and sugars to both slow and prevent release into the blood stream. Both fibers are recommended for the body to function correctly.

The dietary fiber found in water lentils can help to maintain and promote healthy digestion.

An estimated 95% of Americans do not

consume enough dietary fiber5.

9

Water Lentils Proven to Help Manage Diabetes

In 2015 over nine percent of the global population was diagnosed with diabetes, a disease characterized by the inability to regulate blood glucose levels. Research suggests that one in three adults is prediabetic while yearly over 1.4 million new cases of diabetes is diagnosed. In the U.S. alone, 29.1 million Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes.

Recent studies have shown that water lentils, also known as duckweed, can help to regulate a person’s glycemic index and lower blood sugar levels6. A randomized control trial with obese participants showed that those who were consuming water lentils regularly throughout the day had lower peak blood glucose levels and returned to baseline levels faster6. Blood glucose levels taken a few hours after consumption of water lentils were significantly lower than an alternative group which had not consumed the plant6. This indicates that water lentils could be a good addition into diabetic diets.

Water lentils have been found to naturally manage glucose levels in the body6.

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Water Lentils vs. Spirulina

Water Lentils vs. Moringa

10x more fiber7

10x more calcium7

1.3x more iron7

2x more Vitamin E7

98x more Vitamin A7

1.6x more protein8

2.3x more iron8

2.5x more Vitamin A8

1.3x more magnesium8

3x more Omega-38

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Water Lentils vs. Kale

14x more protein9

5x more calcium9

10x more magnesium9

2x potassium9

7x more Vitamin A9

2x more protein than chicken breast10

4x more calcium than dairy milk10

2x more Vitamin A than carrots10

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A Daily Dose ofWater Lentils

Water lentils are easy to incorporate into every diet. As a significant source of protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, water lentils can be used as a healthy addition to a diet needing more vegetables, or a main source for a balanced meal.

High quality water lentils are most commonly found in a fine, green powder form and sold as nutritional additives and protein shakes by a variety of brands. Most water lentil powders have a mild sweet green taste, commonly described as similar to matcha.

Try these recipes using 100% pure water lentil powder to add a little extra nourishment to a delicous and nutritious meal.

Water Lentil Matcha LatteIngredients: 1 tsp Ceremonial Grade Matcha 1 scoop water lentil powder 1 tsp MCT oil 1 tsp coconut butter 1 ½ cup warm water

Add all ingredients and blend until smooth. Pour over ice.

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Chocolate Chip Pumpkin BreadIngredients: 1 ¾ cup flour 1 scoop water lentil protein powder 1 cup canned pumpkin 1/3 cup sugar 2 ¼ tsp baking powder ¼ tsp sea salt 1 tsp cinnamon ½ tsp ground nutmeg ¼ tsp ground ginger ¼ cup chocolate chips ½ cup milk (unsweetened plant-milk) 4 tbsp vegetable oil 1 tbsp maple syrup ¼ cup chopped walnuts

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Apply cooking spray to a baking tin or lightly grease sides.

Mix all dry ingredients in one bowl and all wet ingredients in another.

Fold in dry ingredients into wet ingredients. Be careful not to overwork.

Pour batter into baking tin.

Bake for 50 minutes or until done.

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Pineapple Banana SmoothieIngredients: ¼ cup frozen pineapple ¼ cup frozen mango 1 frozen banana 1 tbs water lentils 1 cup almond milk

Add all ingredients and blend until smooth.

Green Apple Smoothie

Ingredients: 1 chopped apple ¼ cup water lentils 1 cup coconut water ¼ cup spinach leaves 1 frozen banana 1 cup frozen banana

Add all ingredients and blend until smooth.

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1Comparison based on 100 grams of water lentil powder compared with 12 oz steak, 1 egg, 100 grams Greek yogurt

2Comparison based on 100 grams of water lentil powder compared with 12 oz steak and 100 grams raw spinach

3Yaskolka, M. et al. (2019). A Green Mediterranean Diet, Suppelmented with Mankai Duckweed, Preserved Iron Homeostasis in Humans and is Efficient in Reversal of Anemia in Rats. American Society of Nutrition. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30915471#

4Renzi-Hammon, L. et al. (2017). Effects of a Lutein and Zeaxanthin Inter-vention on Cognitive Function: A Randomized, Double-Masked, Place-bo-Controlled Trial of Younger Healthy Adults. Nutrients. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5707718/

5Quagliani, H. et al. (2016). Closing America’s Fiber Intake Gap. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine. Retrieved from: https://www.nc-bi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6124841/

6Zelicha, H. et al. (2019). The Effect of Wolffia globosa Mankai, a Green Aquatic Plant, on Postprandial Glycemic Response: A Randomized Crosso-ver Controlled Trial. Diabetes Care Journal. Retrieved from: https://care.di-abetesjournals.org/content/42/7/1162

7Comparison based on 100 grams of water lentil powder compared with 100 grams spirulina powder

8Comparison based on 100 grams of water lentil powder compared with 100 grams Kuli Kuli moringa powder

9Comparison based on 100 grams of water lentil powder compared with 100 grams kale powder

10Comparison based on 100 grams of water lentil powder compared with 100 grams chicken breast, 1 cup dairy milk, 100 grams carrots

References

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