The crisp texture and sweet taste of fresh peas embodies spring. Whilst they freeze better than many other vegetables, they are at their best when they can be pulled straight from the pod. Fresh peas have a crisp texture and a bright sweet flavour. The best tasting pods will be vibrant green in color and full of peas with little empty space.
With a unique assortment of nutrients and health protective properties peas are perhaps the superfood we shouldn’t ignore. Here are just some of the reasons why:
Weight management
Peas are low-fat but high-everything-else. A cup of peas has less than 100 calories but lots of protein, fibre and micronutrients.
Stomach cancer prevention
Peas contain high amounts of a health-protective polyphenol called coumestrol. A study in Mexico City determined you only need 2 milligrams per day of this phytonutrient to help prevent stomach cancer. A cup of peas has at least 10.
Anti-aging, strong immune system, and high energy
This comes from the high levels of antioxidants
Peas prevent wrinkles
No more expensive creams needed! Thanks to peas’ strong anti-inflammatory properties.
Blood sugar regulation
Peas’ high fibre and protein slows down how fast sugars are digested. Their antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents prevent or reverse insulin resistance (Type 2 diabetes). All peas’ carbohydrates are natural sugars and starches with no white sugars or chemicals to worry about.
Environmentally friendly
Peas work with bacteria in the soil to ‘fix’ nitrogen from the air and deposit it in the soil. This reduces the need for artificial fertilisers since one of their main ingredients is nitrogen.
After peas have been harvested, the remaining plant easily breaks down to create more organic fertiliser for the soil.
Peas are also able to grow on minimal moisture, so they are a perfect crop in many areas due to not needing irrigation or using up valuable water supplies.
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