GREEN PEAS

Description

1. Exceptionally Nutritious
Despite their small size, peas are packed with nutrients.

Vitamins: They are an excellent source of Vitamin K (important for blood clotting and bones), Vitamin C (immune booster), and several B vitamins (especially B1 and B9/Folate).

Minerals: They provide a good amount of Manganese, Iron, and Copper.

2. High in Plant-Based Protein
Unlike many other vegetables, peas are a significant source of protein.

Satiety: This makes them very filling and a great food for weight management.

Dietary Inclusion: They are an excellent protein source for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to reduce their meat intake. (This is also why pea protein is now a common ingredient in plant-based meat alternatives and protein powders).

3. Excellent for Digestive Health
Peas are rich in fiber, which benefits the digestive system in two ways:

Soluble Fiber: Feeds the “good” bacteria in your gut (acting as a prebiotic), promoting a healthy microbiome.

Insoluble Fiber: Adds bulk to stool and helps food pass through your digestive tract faster, helping to prevent constipation.

4. Supports Heart Health
The combination of nutrients in peas makes them heart-friendly.

Magnesium and Potassium: These act as vasodilators, helping to relax blood vessels, which can lower blood pressure.

Antioxidants: They contain compounds like lutein and other carotenoids, which help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol (a key process in the formation of artery plaques).

5. Helps Stabilize Blood Sugar
Peas have a relatively low Glycemic Index (GI) compared to processed starches.

Fiber and Protein Combo: Because they contain both fiber and protein, they slow down the rate at which carbohydrates are digested and sugars are released into the bloodstream. This helps prevent spikes in blood sugar after meals.

6. Rich in Antioxidants
Peas contain a unique mix of phytonutrients and antioxidants, including:

Coumestrol: A polyphenol specifically found in peas that has been linked to a lower risk of stomach cancer.

Anti-Inflammatory: The antioxidants in peas help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

7. Promotes Eye Health
Peas contain two specific carotenoids that are vital for vision:

Lutein and Zeaxanthin: These nutrients accumulate in the retina of the eye and help protect against blue light damage and age-related macular degeneration (a leading cause of blindness).

8. Environmentally Friendly
From an agricultural standpoint:

Nitrogen Fixation: Like other legumes, pea plants have a symbiotic relationship with soil bacteria that allows them to “fix” nitrogen from the air into the soil. This reduces the need for synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, making them a beneficial crop for crop rotation and sustainable farming.

Summary
Green peas are a nutrient powerhouse. They are one of the best plant-based sources of protein, great for digestion, support heart and eye health, and help stabilize blood sugar.