|
|
The Benefits of Peas
A pea is the small and spherical seed of the pisum sativum, a type of legume. Each pod of this plant contains several peas. There are many varieties of the pisum sativum, including split peas, field peas, garden peas and pigeon peas. Peas can be bought fresh, canned or frozen.
Although scientifically it is a fruit, peas are used as vegetables in cooking. Peas are used in a variety of dishes. They can be boiled, flavored with butter and served as a side dish. They are often added in pot pies, casseroles, salads, soups, stews and stir-fries.
Apart from being used in savory dishes, peas offer many health benefits.
Benefits of Peas
- Peas contain nicotinic acid that helps decrease cholesterol levels.
- They have high Vitamin A and Vitamin C content, which indicates that they have cancer-preventing properties.
- The lectins found in peas help prevent the clumping together of red blood cells that could eventually lead to clots.
- Peas contain insoluble fiber that aids digestion and prevents digestive troubles. The fiber in peas significantly reduces the risk of stroke and heart disease.
- Lutein, another nutrient found in peas, helps promote healthy vision and prevent the development of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
- Peas are a good addition to any diet. One cup of boiled peas can provide you with your recommended daily intake of Vitamin K, manganese, Vitamin C, Vitamin B1, Vitamin A, folate, tryptophan, phosphorus, Vitamin B6, niacin, protein, magnesium, copper, zinc, riboflavin, potassium and iron.
Caution
Peas are not for everyone because they contain purines. Purines metabolize into uric acid and are useful for some people. People with kidney problems should avoid eating excessive peas because these could raise uric acid levels, and eventually cause gout.
Also Read:
|
|
