Chickpeas are notorious for their ability to cause bloating and gas. This is partly because they contain oligosaccharides. Chickpeas, as well as other foods, such as onions and garlic, contain sugars called oligosaccharides. Oligosaccharides are a type of sugar that our bodies cannot digest because we don’t produce the enzymes required to break them down. In addition, chickpeas are high in fiber which makes us gassy. They're especially high in soluble fiber, which helps boost our ‘good’ gut bacteria. Fiber is essential for optimal health. It helps prevent constipation and may reduce the risk of bowel cancer and diabetes. And so, being gassy can be a sign of a healthy gut, and is a small price to pay for eating plenty of gut-friendly fiber.