 When made with chickpeas , falafel is high in protein , complex carbohydrates , and fiber . Key nutrients are calcium , iron , magnesium , phosphorus , potassium , zinc , copper , manganese , vitamin C , thiamine , pantothenic acid , vitamin B , and folate . Phytochemicals include beta @-@ carotene . Falafel is high in soluble fiber , which has been shown to be effective in lowering blood cholesterol . 
