Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, provide a good source of protein and of cholesterol-lowering fiber. In addition to lowering cholesterol, chickpeas' high fiber content prevents blood sugar levels from rising too rapidly after a meal, making these beans an especially good choice for individuals with diabetes, insulin resistance or hypoglycemia. They are an excellent source of the trace mineral, molybdenum, an integral component of the enzyme sulfite oxidase, which is responsible for detoxifying sulfites.