Peas: health benefits and harms

Peas are a genus of herbaceous plants belonging to the legume family. The plant is creeping and climbing, has antennae, pink-white flowers and pod-shaped fruits, in which there are edible seeds. There are a considerable number of varieties of this crop, but the most common is the pea.

The origin of peas

Although the origin of peas is not exactly established, it is one of the oldest cultures. Many experts agree that the plant comes from the Mediterranean. But it is also worth noting that not so long ago, the ancient remains of this culture dating back to the late Neolithic were discovered in the Middle East. Apparently, they came to the European continent precisely from the Middle East, and only later with European colonization did peas migrate to the American continent and to other parts of the world.

Species and varieties

There are a large number of pea varieties grown around the world. Each variety has its own characteristic taste. Plants can be distinguished by external characteristics, method of cultivation, etc. Let's look at some types and varieties of peas.

1. Shelling. Peeling peas have smooth grains. As a rule, harvesting is done when the fruits have not yet ripened. You can distinguish such varieties - the first early, primrose, faith, salute.
2. Cerebral. Brain peas have some differences from other species in the type of beans. Typically, the beans are quite wrinkled, with bumps. The most popular varieties are green stream, emerald pearls, violet, children's delight.
3. Sugar. Sugar peas have fleshy, tender beans. They need to be consumed fresh, while they are green in color and small in size. Peas have edible not only beans, but also pods. Such varieties are distinguished as - honey scapula, firstborn, Zhegalov-112, sugar-2, ragweed, inexhaustible-195.
4. Undersized varieties. Most of the varieties of undersized peas have a small stem. Plants twist, and therefore usually tie them up. The height of the dwarf or undersized varieties is 30–70 cm. Popular varieties are alpha, the miracle of Kelvedon, Chinese, and grandmother's surprise.

Among the types of this culture there are also unusual varieties - a blue pod, a mustachioed nanny, a slider.

Chemical composition and nutritional value

The nutritional value of peas (per 100 g):

• Energy value - 118 kcal.
• Total protein - 8.34 g.
• Fat - 0.39 g.
• Carbohydrates - 21.10 g (including simple sugars - 2.90 g).
• Fiber - 8.3 g.
• Vitamin C - 0.4 mg.
• Thiamine - 0.190 mg.
• Riboflavin - 0.056 mg.
• Niacin - 0.890 mg.
• Vitamin B6 - 0.048 mg.
• Folic acid - 65 mcg.
• Vitamin A - 7 IU.
• Vitamin E - 0.03 mg.
• Vitamin K - 5.0 mcg.
• Calcium - 14 mg.
• Iron - 1.29 mg.
• Magnesium - 36 mg.
• Phosphorus - 99 mg.
• Potassium - 362 mg.
• Sodium - 2 mg.
• Zinc - 1.00 mg.

What is useful green peas

General benefit

1. Improves heart condition. Peas are an excellent source of fiber, lutein and lycopene, which contribute to the normalization of the functioning of the heart. Lycopene is a mineral that supports cell health and protects them from disease.Compounds in peas stabilize cholesterol in the body, while lowering LDL cholesterol and accelerating the production of HDL cholesterol. Too much LDL can lead to the formation of plaques on the walls of arteries that interfere with the normal functioning of the heart.
2. Regulates blood sugar. Since peas are rich in fiber and protein, they are able to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Regular pea intake helps stabilize sugar levels.
3. Good for the eyes. Besides lutein, peas are also rich in vitamin A, which is very beneficial for vision. Lutein protects the eyes at the cellular level, while vitamin A maintains the normal state of the surface of the eyeball. Therefore, people of advanced age are advised to regularly eat peas, as it can significantly slow vision loss.
4. Helps control body weight. Peas are an excellent source of fiber and, as you know, it helps to control body weight. Dietary fiber is actively involved in the regulation of digestion, reduces appetite and increases satiety. In addition, fiber effectively lowers blood cholesterol, which is very harmful to the body.
5. Prevents the development of stomach cancer. One of the special minerals found in peas is cumestrol. This is a fairly rare type of polyphenol that prevents stomach cancer. Experts say that to prevent this disease, the body needs at least 2 milligrams of coumestrol per day (one standard serving of peas contains 10 milligrams).
6. Supports immunity. Peas are rich in vitamin C, which makes it one of the products that can strengthen the immune system. One pea pod can provide up to half the body's daily requirement for vitamin C. Bean shoots contain phytoalexins - an antioxidant that can inhibit Helicobacter pylori - a bacterium that irritates the stomach and duodenum, and also causes ulcers and even stomach cancer.
7. Great source of iron. Peas are an excellent source of iron. As you know, iron deficiency in the body can cause anemia. If the body lacks this element, then it cannot produce a sufficient number of healthy red blood cells that carry oxygen, which leads to a hemoglobin deficiency. It is also worth noting that iron helps fight fatigue and gives energy.
8. Helps digestion. Peas have a beneficial effect on the digestive system. The high fiber content in the pods helps maintain the proper functioning of the digestion. Dietary fiber helps the intestines remove toxins from the body.
9. Bone health. Peas contain vitamin K, which is very important for maintaining healthy and strong bones. One standard serving of peas provides up to 50% of the daily allowance for vitamin K, which a person needs because he is responsible for retaining calcium in the bones. Calcium is the main element that supports strength and bone health. The more it is, the better the condition of the bones and the less likely that the disease will affect them.
10. Anti-inflammatory properties. The antioxidants contained in peas are able to relieve inflammation and its effects. Peas contain flavonoids, carotenoids, phenolic acids and polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Inflammation is the main cause of diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis and even cancer, so regular use of peas will help to avoid their occurrence.
11. Improves the functional properties of the brain. Peas are very important for the proper functioning of the brain. With age, its functions deteriorate, which leads to memory loss and an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Regular use of peas limits the damage to brain neurons. It protects against age-related brain dysfunction.
12. Lowers bad cholesterol. Peas are rich in niacin, which reduces the production of triglycerides and VLDL (very low density lipoproteins). As a result, HDL cholesterol (good) rises and bad cholesterol decreases.

For women

1. Peas are good for the skin. It contains vitamin C, which plays an important role in the production of collagen, which is able to make the skin supple, and will also give it a healthy appearance. The antioxidants found in peas help fight oxidative stress caused by large amounts of free radicals. Antioxidants such as flavonoids, catechins, epicatechins, carotenoids and alpha-carotene also help prevent signs of aging.
2. Useful for hair. The supply of vital nutrients to the hair follicles is essential for optimal hair growth and health. Peas are an excellent source of nutrients that provide these processes. As mentioned earlier, it contains B vitamins, such as folates, vitamins B6 and B12. They help in creating red blood cells that carry oxygen and nutrients to all body cells, including the scalp, follicles, and hair roots. Deficiency of these vitamins can lead to hair loss, slow growth or weakening of hair. Vitamin C is an important mineral, as it is involved in the formation of collagen, which is necessary for hair follicles for optimal growth. Even a slight deficiency of this vitamin can lead to dry and brittle hair.

For men

1. Peas are good for men's health. He is able to increase sperm count and motility. Glycodelin - a substance found in peas - affects sperm, improving their ability to fertilize an egg.
2. Peas are a source of protein. The most valuable protein is vegetable, which is found in the seeds of beans. Pea is also a source of protein, it contains a lot of lysine and threonine, as well as essential amino acids. Protein will help maintain muscle tone, as well as build muscle. Also, peas are recommended to be included in the diet of vegans and vegetarians.

For kids

Green peas are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals and fiber. It has been discovered that it is rich in vitamins A, B1, B6, K and C. Peas are also rich in minerals such as magnesium, potassium, iron and phosphorus. It also contains fiber, proteins, carbohydrates, niacin and folates. It is a recommended dietary product for children.

You can start feeding your child more solid foods from the age of six months. However, giving him peas is still quite early, because its side effects can cause discomfort in the digestive tract. Experts recommend including peas in the baby's diet when he reaches eight months of age.

Here are some properties of peas that have a beneficial effect on the children's body:

• helps strengthen immunity;
• reduces homocysteine ​​levels, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease;
• helps to get rid of constipation, improving digestion;
• leads to better bone health.

The benefits and harms of dried peas

Dried peas contain a variety of vitamins and minerals. 100 g of dried peas contains:

• 75 mcg of molybdenum (more than 100% of the recommended daily intake);
• 0.4 mg manganese (20% of the recommended daily dose);
• 0.35 mg of copper (20% of the recommended daily dose);
• 65 mcg of folate (15% of the recommended daily intake);
• 0.2 mg of vitamin B1 (15% of the recommended daily dose).

It is worth noting that the molybdenum contained in peas is one of the vital trace elements. It inhibits the development of bacteria and can also prevent tooth decay.

But no matter how healthy the dried beans are, they also have side effects. For example, flatulence may occur after their use. Bloating occurs because the beans contain a large amount of indigestible sugars, which are destroyed by bacteria in the colon, which leads to excessive gas formation.

The benefits and harms of canned peas

Canned peas have undeniable valuable properties. Pea juice is considered especially beneficial. There is a popular belief that peas should not be consumed by people who are trying to lose weight, arguing that beans are rich in carbohydrates. But in fact, the opposite is true: beans are very useful for a low-calorie diet, because peas, especially canned peas, have a great taste and practically do not contain fat.

But canned peas have some disadvantages.

1. Sugars, which are a flavor enhancer, can be quite harmful to the human body.
2. Also, some preservatives are often added, which can also negatively affect health.

Sprouted peas: benefits and harms

Sprouted peas have a large number of beneficial properties. The first thing that can be distinguished is that it is able to support the immune system. The high nutrient content makes it a prophylactic and helps the body to be more resistant to disease.

Sprouted peas also contain many antioxidants that help maintain both the external and internal youth of the body. It is worth noting that the degree of benefit of this product depends on the amount of beans consumed. If you observe the limits of what is permitted, then peas will not bring any harm. Nutritionists recommend using beans on a regular basis, since peas are just a storehouse of nutrients.

In addition to useful properties, sprouted peas have contraindications. Nutritionists forbid it to people who suffer from diseases of the digestive system, since beans can cause excessive gas formation.

Can peas be pregnant and lactating

There are several advantages of eating peas during pregnancy:

1. Peas are rich in folic acid. In order for a baby to be born healthy, it is very important to consume a sufficient amount of nutritious foods during pregnancy, since during this period there is another living being in the mother’s body that increases the body’s need for additional nutrition. Peas are just such a product. It contains folic acid, which is able to stimulate DNA synthesis. During pregnancy, it is recommended to eat peas in order to avoid defects in the neural tube of the fetus.
2. Rich in Vitamin B9. Vitamin B9 is known to reduce the risk of fetal defects during pregnancy. Peas contain a large amount of vitamin B9, which, in addition to being important for preventing neural tube defects in the baby, is also essential for maintaining healthy fetal cognitive functioning.

Peas in medicine

In the field of medicine it is used to stimulate urination, relieve indigestion, and treat swelling and constipation.

With diabetes

If you consume enough peas, this will significantly affect the risk of type 2 diabetes. Green peas are rich in protein, potassium, magnesium and iron, which prevent sharp spikes in blood sugar levels. Pea has a low GI, but, more importantly, its glycemic load is very low. This means that sugars are released quite slowly and this has a beneficial effect on the diabetic.

It's important to know: the glycemic index of green peas is 40 units, of dried and canned peas is 25-45, boiled peas has a GI of 45.

With pancreatitis

Peas can not be included in the diet for people with the acute phase of pancreatitis, as this can provoke: diarrhea, flatulence (with insufficient digestion), intestinal colic and leaching of useful minerals from the body.

If the disease passes in a mild form, then peas are allowed to be consumed, especially since it contains protein, which takes part in the recovery processes of the pancreas. As a rule, with pancreatitis, peas are served in the form of mashed potatoes or soups.

With gastritis

People who have gastritis can eat peas, but in moderation. If flatulence occurs after eating, then beans should be discarded, since excessive gas formation can very negatively affect health. It is also worth noting that canned peas are dangerous for gastritis, as the marinade has additional acidity, which can provoke an acute phase of the disease.

Pea-based traditional medicine recipes

Peas are an indispensable product in the diet. He copes with many ailments, and has the healing properties necessary for healing the body.

For heartburn

From heartburn, flour made from peas helps well. To cook it, you need to chop dry peas to a powder, dilute with a small amount of water and take 1 tablespoon on an empty stomach. This remedy has a calming effect on the stomach and reduces the secretion of gastric juice.

For headache

To do this, grind dry peas into powder. Eat 2 dessert spoons after a meal. Peas quickly relieve migraines, removes pain and spasms of blood vessels.

From urolithiasis

If there are stones and sand in the kidneys, a decoction of young peas will help. It should be cut into small pieces, select 2 tablespoons, pour them with a glass of boiling water and let stand for several hours. After this, the resulting broth should be filtered and consumed 3 times a day before meals.

With a spleen cyst

With this serious illness, this recipe will help: 8 tablespoons of peas should be soaked in hot water in the evening. The next day, drain the tincture, rinse the peas and pour water. Cook for 20 minutes. It should be taken 2 weeks - in the morning before breakfast and a couple of hours before bedtime. It is recommended to eat peas without bread and salt, you can add greens. Soaked peas have useful elements, removes excess fluid and toxins from the body, removes inflammation. Thanks to this, the cyst will quickly resolve.

With cystitis

The cystitis remedy is prepared in this way: pour 100 g of peas into 500 ml of water, let it boil on the stove and cook for another 5 minutes. The broth should be allowed to cool, then filtered and taken 3 times a day for several sips.

When coughing

To prepare the infusion, pour 5 g of peas with hot water and insist under a tight lid for 6 hours. Take 2-3 sips 4 times a day.

With dermatitis

Pea effectively fights inflammation and irritation on the skin. You need to pour a glass of boiling water on the stems, sashes of the pea plant or the peas themselves. Let it brew for 5 hours. This tool must be applied as lotions to inflamed skin.

With tooth pain

Pea relieves pain in the teeth and is used for bleeding gums. 50 g of dried peas need to pour 100 ml of olive oil and cook for 30 minutes. After this, the tool must be filtered through gauze. It is recommended to rinse your mouth with a decoction several times a day.

Useful properties of peas for weight loss

Peas are rich in dietary fiber, as well as vitamins and proteins necessary for a healthy diet. It is an ideal product for losing weight, because it is an excellent source of fiber and vitamins.

The benefits of peas for weight loss:

1. Peas are rich in insoluble dietary fiber. In the human body, the fibers are destroyed, digested and cause a feeling of satiety. If a person feels full, then his attention does not focus on the need to eat something.
2. Peas are an excellent source of protein. 100 grams of this bean contains about 5 grams of protein.
3. Low fat content. Low-fat legumes can be used both for cooking diet foods and as a snack between meals. This will not affect weight.

What about canned peas? It has some differences from fresh. As a rule, after the canning procedure, the utility level is significantly reduced. Canned peas contain a large amount of salt, and, as you know, it can retain fluid and slow down the process of weight loss. However, canned peas are not strictly prohibited for people who are trying to lose weight, but are not recommended for use during the diet.

Peas in cosmetology

Peas have been used in the field of cosmetology for millennia. Even the early Egyptians, Greeks and Romans noticed its extraordinary properties. The content of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in peas has contributed to its active use in the cosmetics industry.

Pea shows itself perfectly as the main ingredient in moisturizing face creams and body balms. Pea-based cosmetics are especially valuable for people living in dry climates. Peas can provide the skin with a significant amount of sugars, which increase the level of hydration. Due to this, the loss of water from tissues is reduced. It has anti-inflammatory properties, which is also very beneficial for dry skin. Often it is used for the manufacture of all kinds of masks. Face masks can help get rid of rashes and reduce swelling.

Beans contain trace elements: iron, potassium, magnesium and calcium, which have a beneficial effect on the skin, which leads to an increase in its elasticity. Peas contain antioxidants, such as vitamins E and C, which prevent aging of the skin. Vitamin E speeds up the healing process of small wounds. In turn, the vitamin B1 present in it creates a gentle protective film on the skin, reducing the level of harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation, wind and low temperatures. Peas also contain ingredients that counteract the negative effects of enzymes on the skin - collagenosis. These enzymes cause the breakdown of key cellular proteins.

What can be cooked from peas

Pea cutlets

Ingredients:

• dry peas - 200 g;
• carrot - 70 g;
• flour - 2 tbsp. l .;
• vegetable oil - 2 tbsp. l .;
• salt pepper.

How to cook:

1. First you need to do the preparation of products. Peas must be soaked in water for one night. After this, the water needs to be drained, it is advisable to wash the peas several times.
2. Peas need to pour 500 ml of water and cook until it becomes soft (45–55 minutes, if the beans are halves, and up to one and a half hours, if whole).
3. Grate the carrots with a grater, cut the onion into cubes. Then add two tablespoons of vegetable oil and fry the carrots with onions.
4. Combine cooked peas with fried vegetables.
5. With a blender, you need to beat all this to a puree state.
6. Then salt, pepper, add flour and mix the minced peas.
7. Dip your hands in water and form round patties. After that, you need to brew the resulting cutlets in flour.
8. After that, put them in a pan with already heated oil and start the process of frying over medium heat.
9. Cutlets need to be fried on both sides until a brown crust appears.

Vegetable soup with potatoes and peas

Ingredients:

• 1 kg of tomatoes;
• 1/2 kg of potatoes;
• 1/2 kg of peas;
• 2 onions;
• 2 carrots;
• 2 l of vegetable broth;
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil;
• pepper and salt;
• 4 tablespoons of tomato puree.

How to cook:

1. In a saucepan with a small amount of oil, you need to extinguish finely chopped onions (2 heads). Once it softens, add hot broth (2 L) and put chopped potatoes (0.5 kg). You also need to cut 2 carrots into cubes and add them to the pan.
2. Once the vegetables have softened, add the tomatoes and 4 tablespoons of tomato paste.
3. The soup should boil for several minutes. Then add peas (1/2 kg) and spices. Soup should be cooked until all foods are cooked. Served hot. If desired, you can sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil.

Pea stew with chicken

Ingredients:

• chicken;
• 800 g peas;
• 1 carrot;
• 3 tomatoes;
• 1 onion;
• 1 tablespoon flour;
• 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil;
• parsley;
• salt.

How to cook:

1. Chicken meat should be cut into pieces and fry in a pan with a small amount of oil (up to 3 tablespoons). Then add finely chopped onions (1 head) and carrots (1 pc.). When the carrots are soft, add peeled and chopped tomatoes (3 pieces).
2. After this, the products must be placed in a deep bowl and pour hot water. As soon as the food starts to cook, add peeled peas (800 g), pepper and salt. Cooking takes about 15 minutes.
3. Mix the flour (1 tbsp) with a few tablespoons of water in a bowl and mix well. Cook a few more minutes until thickened.

Harm and contraindications

Despite the fact that peas contain a large number of useful substances, before use, you should pay attention to its harmful properties and contraindications.

A certain category of people can suffer from intolerance to beans, because some of them, including peas, contain anti-nutrients, which, as a rule, interfere with the digestion process and can interfere with the absorption of minerals. Although these side effects are quite rare, you still need to know about them. Most often, such reactions occur in people who rely on legumes as a staple food. If you eat peas in moderation, there will be no problems with this product.

It is worth noting that excessive consumption of beans can lead to leaching of calcium from the body. As a result, this can affect the health of bones and joints, since a lack of calcium can weaken the strength of the bones. Also, excessive consumption of peas can contribute to the accumulation of uric acid. Over time, excessive acid buildup can trigger gout. Before including beans in your diet, it is recommended to consult a doctor, since this product can adversely affect the body.

Peas are not recommended for use by people who have a very sensitive stomach, suffer from reflux or peptic ulcer. People with acute jade, gout, increased blood clotting and with thrombophlebitis are also forbidden to include peas in their diet.

How to pick and store peas

When buying fresh peas, choose small or medium pods, as large ones are likely to be overripe, which means that peas can be less tender and sweet. Avoid cracked or sluggish pods. A pod with a good pea, when opened, will make a clicking sound. The peas inside should be small, bright green, tender and sweet.

Try to use the beans immediately after purchase, as they have a fairly short shelf life. Peas should be stored in a cool place, such as in a refrigerator, in a plastic box, for up to 4 days.

Interesting facts about peas

Here are some interesting facts about peas.

1. Pea is a plant whose life cycle is only one year.
2. Green peas were once very popular in North America.Thomas Jefferson, a participant in the first American revolution, cultivated about 30 peas in his estate.
3. The earliest archaeological finds of peas date from the late Neolithic period. The remains of this culture were discovered on the territory of modern Greece, Syria, Turkey and Jordan.
4. Peas were grown in Georgia for 5 thousand years BC. It was also cultivated in Afghanistan in 2000 BC. e., in Pakistan and in the north-west of India in 2250 BC. e.
5. In the first century AD, Lucius Junius Moderat Columella wrote about how Roman legionnaires collected wild peas from the sandy soils of Numidia and Judea to supplement their diet.
6. In the Middle Ages, field peas were very popular, as it was the main product that restrained hunger.
7. Evidence indicates that people ate peas even during the Bronze Age.
8. There are a huge number of pea varieties that can be grown in the northern latitudes, while this will not affect the crop.
9. Some types of peas have edible pods. However, in most varieties they are inedible, so they are usually removed before use.
10. Peas quickly lose their sweet taste after harvesting. That is why it should be eaten immediately after removing the pods.
11. Gregor Mendel is the father of modern genetics. He discovered the basic laws of inheritance in the XIX century by crossing peas of different colors, sizes and types of beans.
12. The first time peas were frozen in the 1920s.
13. There are etiquette rules that you must adhere to when eating peas. Based on them, before using the beans, you need to crush them with the back of the fork.
14. Until the end of World War II, a product such as pea sausage was present in the diet of German soldiers. It was made from meat juice and lard with the addition of pea flour.

Pea photo