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Split Peas
While most of us are familiar with split pea soup, there is a lot behind those little peas. Did you know that dried peas have been a staple of the human diet since prehistoric times? Peas have been found in archeological digs in Egypt, Asia, and Rome.
Health Benefits of Split Peas
Are you worried about your cholesterol level? Eat split peas! Full of soluble
fiber, peas help to bind up cholesterol-containing bile and move it out of your
body. This can help with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and
diverticulosis. A single cup of cooked dried peas in your daily diet provides
65.1% of the recommended daily fiber. They also provide a good amount of
protein, two B-vitamins, and several important minerals. Peas also include
isoflavones, which are helpful in reducing the risk of breast and prostate
cancer.
If you are diabetic, or have it in your family, split peas can be your best
friend. Peas help stabilize your blood sugar levels while providing a steady
supply of energy. Studies have shown that type 2 diabetics who eat at least 50
grams of fiber per day can lower their cholesterol, their triglycerides, and the
VLDL (Very Low Density Lipoprotein) by a considerable amount.
Peas can also reduce the amount of plaque in your blood vessels and help your
heart remain healthy. If you are sensitive to sulfites, which are added to most
deli foods and salad bars, the mineral molybdenum will help you detoxify them.
Peas can provide you with almost twice the recommended daily allowance of this
mineral from a single 1-cup serving. Signs of sulfite sensitivity may include
rapid heartbeat, headache, or disorientation.
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