Legumes and cereals are valuable sources of vegetable protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. They are an important component of the human diet, especially in those regions where livestock farming is poorly developed.
Legumes and cereals are also important for agriculture. They are good precursors for other crops, improve soil structure and increase its fertility.
There are many types of legumes and cereal plants in the world. The most common legumes are peas, beans, soybeans, lentils, chickpeas and beans. The most common cereal crops are wheat, rice, corn, rye, barley and oats.
Legumes and cereals are grown in all climatic zones of the world. They are an important part of human food security.
Some features of legumes and cereals:
Legumes:
- Leguminous plants have a symbiotic relationship with nodule bacteria, which fix atmospheric nitrogen in the soil. This makes legumes good precursors for other crops that require nitrogen.
- Legumes contain large amounts of protein, which is an important component of the human diet.
- Legumes contain dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion.
- Leguminous plants contain phytoestrogens, which can have a positive effect on human health.
Cereals:
- Cereals are a good source of carbohydrates, which are the main source of energy for humans.
- Cereals contain dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion.
- Cereals contain vitamins and minerals that are essential for human health.
Legumes and cereals are valuable plants that play an important role in human nutrition and agriculture.