Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is currently working on a study which could help those at risk of diabetes.
Nutrition Research Scientist Dr. Dan Ramdath says pulses are a good source of fibre, proteins and vitamins.
He and his team are working to develop pulse-based foods such as soups, muffins and casseroles.
In a joint effort with Pulse Canada, the study is examining how eating a meal in which half the starch has been replaced by pulses effects blood levels.
AAFC says its initial findings suggest people with diabetes can manage blood glucose levels with the regular consumption of pulses.
Dr. Ramdath adds pulse foods, which include beans, peas, lentils and chickpeas, have a unique characteristic which slows down digestion, allowing the release of sugars to be spread out over a longer period of time.
Results of the study will be known in March of 2018.
