Health Benefits of Peas
Health Benefits of Peas
Peas are seeds of the pod fruit Pisum sativum belonging to the Fabaceae family. Peas are a fruit but are considered a vegetable.
The earliest archaeological findings of peas date from the late Neolithic era of current Syria, Anatolia, Israel, Iraq, Jordan and Greece. Peas are now grown worldwide.
There are a different variety of peas including green peas, snow peas, black-eyed peas, chickpeas and pigeon peas also known as guandules.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, green pease are used to strengthen digestion, lubricate the intestines, strengthen the spleen and stomach, and treat indigestion, constipation and bloating.
Peas are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Peas have anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Peas have essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, iron, magnesium, potassium, folate, vitamin K, vitamin B6, and vitamin A.
Peas may help improve eye health due to their carotenoids content zeaxanthin and lutein. Studies have shown that consuming foods rich in carotenoids may help reduce the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
Peas are considered as a good meat alternative due to its rich protein content.
Peas are rich in fiber that may help promote a healthy digestion. Peas may also promote weight loss.
Peas have a low glycemic index and may also help regulate blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that consuming a high protein diet decreases blood sugar levels with people with type 2 diabetes.
Peas may also promote heart health.
As always may consult with your physician.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pea#Description
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5414455/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/green-peas-are-healthy
https://www.health.com/peas-benefits-7642292
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22916813/