Benefits of green peas

Benefits of green peas: fresh, frozen, canned

The benefits of green peas: fresh, frozen, cannedGreen peas are a delicious and extremely useful product that often appears on our table. Its versatility and availability make it an indispensable part of the diet. In this article we will consider the benefits of green peas, both fresh and canned, frozen, and possible harmful aspects of its use.

Green peas: benefits for the body

Fresh green peas are rich in vitamins and minerals that are essential for maintaining a healthy body. Among its main benefits are:

  • Vitamins and antioxidants: peas contain vitamins A, C, K and group B, which help to strengthen the immune system, improve vision and support the nervous system.
  • Dietary fiber: the fiber found in peas helps improve digestion and normalize blood sugar levels.
  • Protein: it is an excellent source of vegetable protein, which is especially important for vegetarians.

Benefits of fresh green peas

Fresh green peas are particularly rich in vitamins and micronutrients. It is high in magnesium, potassium and iron, which is good for the cardiovascular system and keeping hemoglobin at normal levels. Its low calorie content makes it suitable for those seeking weight loss.

Benefits of frozen green peas

Frozen green peas retain almost all the useful properties of the fresh product thanks to modern freezing technology. This is a great alternative in winter, when fresh peas are not available. It is suitable for preparing soups, side dishes and salads.

Canned green peas: benefits and harms

Canned green peas are a convenient and affordable product that can be used all year round. However, its benefits for the body depend on the method of canning and the composition of the brine:

  • Many vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, iron and phosphorus are preserved.
  • It is convenient to use for quick preparation of salads and side dishes.
  • It is a low-calorie product suitable for dietary intake.

Harm of canned green peas

In some cases, the composition may contain preservatives, flavor enhancers or an excessive amount of salt, which is not useful for people with kidney or cardiovascular diseases. Useful substances in smaller amounts compared to fresh and frozen peas.

Green peas: benefits and harm to health

The benefits of green peas for the human body are obvious due to its rich composition. However, it is important to take into account several factors. Consumption of a large amount of peas can cause abdominal bloating due to the high fiber content. People with gout are advised to limit the consumption of peas due to their purine content.

How are green peas canned?

Home canning of peas allows you to preserve more useful substances. The use of a minimum amount of salt and the absence of preservatives makes the product safe and healthy. However, with prolonged storage, the amount of vitamins in peas decreases.

Bet you didn’t know these benefits of green peas?

  • Green peas are one of the first crops grown by humans. Archaeologists have found traces of pea cultivation dating back to 8000 BC in the valleys of the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East.
  • In the past, it was considered a delicacy. In Europe in the XVI-XVII centuries, fresh green peas were a symbol of luxury. It was served only at royal feasts, and the opportunity to taste this product was considered a privilege of the upper classes.
  • A source of energy for astronauts. Green peas are included in the diet of astronauts due to their high nutritional value, ease of storage and preparation. Freeze-dried peas retain all their useful properties and are convenient for use in weightlessness.
  • Harvest record. The largest crop of peas is recorded harvested in India. This country is the largest producer of peas in the world, growing more than 5 million tons annually.
  • Protein champion. Among vegetables, green peas stand out for their high protein content. It has up to 7% protein, which makes it a great meat substitute for vegetarians and vegans.
  • Can “jump.” If you dry peas and heat them in a pan, they will start to bounce. This happens because the water it contains evaporates, creating pressure inside the shell.
  • It is not only used in food. In the Middle Ages, peas were used in medicine. It was used to treat skin and digestive problems. Today, peas are also used in cosmetics, such as moisturizing creams, due to their antioxidant properties.
  • Vegetable or fruit? Botanically, green peas are a fruit, as they develop from the flower of the plant and contain seeds. However, in cooking, it is considered a vegetable.
  • Symbol of good luck. In many cultures, peas symbolize good luck and prosperity. For example, in Italy, peas are traditionally eaten on New Year’s Eve, believing that they will bring happiness and wealth.
  • Environmentally sustainable product. Peas are considered one of the most environmentally friendly crops. It fixes nitrogen from the air, improving soil quality, and requires less fertilizer than other crops. This makes it beneficial not only for people but also for the environment.

National dishes with peas

In the UK, “pea soup” is popular, a classic dish especially during cold seasons. In India, peas are used to make savory dishes such as “matar paneer” (peas with paneer cheese). In Russia, canned peas are a must-have ingredient in Olivier salad.

Green peas are a universal product, the benefits of which for the body are obvious. Fresh and frozen peas are the best options for maximizing vitamins and minerals, while canned peas remain a convenient and affordable source of nutrients. The key is to consume them in moderation, choosing a quality product to receive only health benefits.

To learn about the benefits of other products, go to the Benefits food page.

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