Give peas a chance! See what I did there? No, but seriously. Peas deserve to be given a chance, they have numerous health benefits. While the origins of domesticated peas have not been definitely determined, the pea is one of the oldest cultivated crops. The wild plant is native to the Mediterranean region, and ancient dating to the late Neolithic Period have been found in the Middle East.
Here are 7 health benefits of peas.
1. Good for digestive health
Peas are good for your digestion. The high fibre content present in pods helps in maintaining good digestive health. Fibre adds bulk to the stool, thereby enhancing smoother bowel regularity. Additionally, peas are rich in coumestrol, a nutrient that plays a role in protecting against stomach cancer.
Peas contain phytoalexins, an antioxidant that can inhibit H.Pylori, the bacterium that causes stomach and duodenal ulcers and stomach cancer.
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2. Eye health
The eye is a sensitive organ that can easily develop health complications. Luckily, peas can help you boost your eye health. According to WebMD, peas contain the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin. These nutrients help protect your eyes from chronic diseases, such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Lutein and zeaxanthin act as filters from harmful blue light, which contributes to cataracts and macular degeneration.
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3. Immunity
Your immunity is what keeps you healthy and strong, so it is in your best interests to boost it. A healthy immune system can resist harmful microorganisms. Carotenoids are one of the vital antioxidants present in green peas. They are the pigment that grows inside the legume and once consumed, they turn into vitamin A.
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4. Good for the heart
Heart diseases are becoming more and more common in our world today. In Kenya, heart diseases cause 25% of hospital admissions and 13% of deaths. Heart disease begins with chronic stress and oxidative inflammation, which creates a wall of plaque along blood vessels. This can be significantly reduced with a daily intake of B vitamins, which is found in green peas.
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5. Weight loss
For those trying to lose weight, then you may want to increase peas in your diet. Peas are low in fat and also immensely low on calories as compared to heavier legumes like beans and cowpeas. 100 grams of peas contains only 81 calories. The high content of fibre also plays its role in weight reduction, by inducing the feeling of fullness which keeps you from bingeing on other foods.
6. Source of iron
Anaemia is a deficiency disease caused by a lack of iron in the body. Iron is an essential element for blood production. Peas are a good source of iron, which helps combat fatigue and gives you strength.
7. Good for men’s health
Men can benefit from peas, in the sense that they can help increase sperm count and motility. According to the book ‘Healing Foods, “Glycodelin- a substance found in snow peas, can help strengthen sperms and improves their ability to fertilize an egg.
