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The joy we experience while digging into paneer matar or matar pulao is incomparable, isn’t it? After all, it is the crunchiness of peas that adds so much flavour to these dishes. The best part is that they don’t just taste good, but are super healthy too. That’s because they are a powerhouse of nutrients and contain large amounts of fibre and antioxidants. Moreover, they are also said to provide protection against illnesses such as heart disease and cancer.
But before we get down to the benefits, let’s discuss a little about green peas. Also called garden peas, they are spherical in nature and have been a part of the human diet for generations. For the uninitiated, they are not vegetables, but a part of the legume family. But even then, some consider it a starchy vegetable, since they contain complex carbs.
So, why must you make green peas a part of your diet? Well, there are various reasons, we’d say!
1. They are high in nutrients and antioxidants
Green peas contain nutrition in every bite! After all, it is packed with protein, vitamins and minerals, and carbs. Oh, and did we tell you that they are low on calories? If there’s one thing that makes them stand out from other foods, it is their protein content. They are also rich in antioxidants, which also help to promote health in more ways than one!
2. They regulate your blood sugar levels
The packaged food we eat today is filled with hidden sugars, and before we even realise it, our sugar levels touch the roof. Fortunately, peas can do a whole lot of good for you! To begin with, they have a relatively low glycemic index, which means that they do not raise your sugar levels instantly. Plus, they are rich in fibre and protein, which can also help in regulating blood sugar levels. In fact, research goes on to show that eating certain protein-rich foods are pretty helpful in bringing down blood sugar levels, even in patients who suffer from type 2 diabetes.
3. They help with digestion
As mentioned above, green peas contain large amounts of fibre, which works well for digestive health. Fibre helps to feed the good bacteria in your intestines, which keeps them healthy, and prevents unhealthy bacteria from collecting. This also helps to reduce the occurrence of inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome and colon cancer.
4. They protect against certain chronic illnesses
Green peas contain a range of heart-healthy minerals, including magnesium, potassium and calcium, and have a positive effect on your heart health. In fact, the high fibre content in green peas helps to lower total and bad cholesterol. They also contain flavonoids, carotenoids, and vitamin C, which prevents the occurrence of heart disease and stroke.
