Peas are legumes produced by the Pisum sativum plant of the botanical family of Fabaceae as indeed many other legumes: beans, chickpeas and lentils.
Peas are therefore vegetables that have been used since ancient times in the nutrition of man and also of some animals.
Historical evidence finds the use of peas prior to 5 years ago.
In addition, peas are used as natural remedies for some health problems and to bring more well-being to the body thanks to the richness of its nutrients.
Finally, peas are also used in the recipes of some cosmetic products to firm and tone the skin.
There are many different varieties of peas which differ in color, flavor and size. Peas are grown all over the world and the country is one of the largest producers. Peas are also classified for their bearing which sees them divided into dwarf, half-branch, climbing and mangiatutto peas.
They are harvested fresh from the plant around April and production can continue until the end of June but this depends on the variety chosen and the climate because too much heat causes fruit production to drop and stop.
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Composition of peas
Peas are the most easily digested legumes from our body this is because they are less rich in starch than beans and chickpeas. Furthermore, if we continue to compare them with beans and chickpeas we will discover that the risk of fermentation in the intestine is much lower and this thus avoids problems of meteorism or even discomfort of colitis that common legumes involve.
One hg of fresh peas has a caloric intake of only 52 heate and it also contains 5,5% of vegetable proteins, 6,5% of vegetable dietary fibers and as many sugars with a small part of fat at 0,6%.
The richness of vitamins in peas it is very high especially as regards vitamin A, B1, B6, B9, C, K and folate.
Peas also contain many minerals such as iron, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and zinc which make them therefore indicated as mineralizing the body as well as helping for various health problems.
The richness of fiber allows peas to act in a beneficial way in moments of constipation because it facilitates intestinal transit.
Properties and benefits of peas
> Excellent source of protein and slimming
Peas are rich in proteins or better in essential amino acids and the origin of these proteins is completely vegetable so it can also be used by people who have made a vegetarian or vegan choice.
Furthermore, these legumes have a low fat content and a limited glycemic index thus giving the possibility to be eaten by everyone including those at the highest risk of diabetes. In addition, the sense of satiety after eating peas is very high so it is excellent for those who want to keep the figure or embark on a diet for weight loss.
The caloric intake is also moderate and the fiber content also helps with intestinal motility relieving us from the inside. Peas are therefore suitable for low-calorie diets and for those who want to stay fit.
> Anti-inflammatories: friends of the heart and enemies of cholesterol
Peas contain active ingredients and specific substances with anti-inflammatory action such as omega 3 and vitamins A, B, C and E.
These anti-inflammatory substances generally work by lowering the inflammatory state of the body and specifically they are capable, for example, of protecting blood vessels and blood circulation. In addition, regular consumption of peas helps prevent blood clots and together with the ability to lower homocysteine ​​levels, peas lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Furthermore, the presence of vitamin B3 is capable of reducing the production of triglycerides and rebalance the percentages of good and bad cholesterol.
> Support for the bones
La richness of mineral salts in peas makes them excellent natural supplements for these substances which are indispensable in various ailments such as osteoporosis. In particular, the B vitamins have a stimulating action on the marrow and vitamin K instead helps the absorption of calcium by the skeletal system.
> Beauty and youth
The richness of many antioxidant substances such as polyphenols, carotenoids, folic acid and flavonoids make peas suitable for keeping our body young and fit. The richness of nutrients manages to give us tone and energy without weighing down the day too much.
The skin reports positive effects when we eat peas regularly and we can also use them for some homemade beauty products.
How to consume peas
Fresh peas need to be picked and eaten quicklyand with a maximum storage in the refrigerator of 4 days. On the other hand, if after harvesting we want to dry them, their conservation will be much greater even for months if the environment is cool, ventilated and they are kept in the dark in special containers.
It is recommended to eat legumes at least 2 times per week and peas in particular are very versatile among first courses, side dishes, velvets and other cooking recipes.
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