Pulses: A way to encourage sustainable fiber consumption

Background: The gap between recommended and actual dietary fiber consumption in Western societies is increasing largely, due to a shift towards a Western dietary pattern. This has resulted in a marked deficit in dietary fiber intake that can negatively impact the intestinal microbiota and thereby increase susceptibility to various diseases. Scope and approach: This review investigates the potential of pulses, rich in dietary fiber and protein, to bridge this fiber gap. It highlights the role of pulses in enriching the human gut microbiota through their prebiotic properties, supporting sustainable diets, and contributing to environmental sustainability. Furthermore, we delve into the impact of diverse pulse processing methods and explore the breadth of industrially produced pulse-based products. Key findings and conclusions: Pulses emerge as a compelling strategy to combat dietary fiber deficiency. They serve a dual purpose of promoting health through their prebiotic properties and sustainability through their high protein content and low environmental impact. The versatility of pulses enables their integration into an array of dietary patterns, making them a significant catalyst in the shift towards healthier, more sustainable diets. Despite the appeal of pulses, their underutilization highlights a missed opportunity for improving dietary fiber intake and enhancing gut health in Western societies. The broadening array of pulse-based products points towards a promising avenue for increasing pulse consumption and bridging the fiber gap.