Green peas, a legume, have three distinct types: garden or green peas, snow peas and snap peas. Peas are primarily recognized for their intense green colour and somewhat sweet flavour, depending on the variety.

Peas are packed with a multitude of health promoting properties. Peas are a source of vitamin A, vitamin C, protein, vitamin K, thiamine, vitamin B6, folate, pantothenic acid, iron, manganese and dietary fiber.
 

Anti-Oxidants and Flavonoids

Green peas are an excellent source of phytonutrients with anti-oxidant activity. Antioxidants, such as vitamin C, play a role in decreasing cardiovascular damage. These beneficial compounds neutralize free radicals in the body. Free radicals directly damage blood vessels and can cause cholesterol to build up in artery walls; therefore, anti-oxidants can be helpful in preventing the development and progression of atherosclerosis, stroke, heart disease and arthritis.
 

Reduce the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Green pea consumption helps in reducing the risk of atherosclerosis, stroke and heart disease. Green peas are an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin K. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps remove free radicals form the system, and thereby reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke. Green peas are an excellent source of vitamin K, which is important for both bone health and proper blood clotting.

Folate and vitamin B6 promote the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system. Studies have shown that a deficiency of folate, which causes the accumulation of the amino acid homocysteine in the body, significantly increases the risk for heart disease. Homocysteine promotes atherosclerosis by promoting the deterioration of arterial walls as well as promoting blood clot formation. The dietary fiber content in green peas further helps reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
 

Source of Folate

Green peas are also an excellent source of folate, which not only helps lower the risk of neural birth defects, but helps prevent heart disease. Green peas are an excellent source of magnesium, a mineral that can help lower high blood pressure and protect against heart disease as well.
 

Green Peas: Source of Iron

Green peas are an excellent source of iron. The mineral iron helps transport oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. A regular consumption of iron, which is necessary for proper blood cell formation, may help prevent anaemia.
 

Green Peas: Source of Dietary Fiber

Green peas are a source of dietary fiber. Fiber may help with weight management, as well as keep your digestive health in check. Fiber also acts to prevent constipation, help lower cholesterol levels, reduce cancer risk, as well as relieve other gastro-intestinal issues.
 

Therapeutic Role of Green Peas:

Due to being low calorie but very nutrient dense, green peas make an excellent snack if you are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Green peas have also been prescribed to increase energy function in the body. Green peas are said to maintain healthy vision as well as improve immune function.