Sugar Snap Peas

The humble sugar snap pea is not only an extremely popular vegetable due to its multitude of uses at meal times, but it is also exceptionally good for us, even when compared to many other healthy vegetables.

Sugar Snap Peas differ from the English Peas slightly as they are less fibrous and can be eaten when young. They have a subtle sweet taste, which can be eaten with a meal or as a snack. Sugar snaps can be eaten whole and, as well as being convenient and easier to prepare, the vegetable is high in vitamins and minerals that are particularly helpful for the heart.

Minerals

Iron is bountiful within sugar snap peas and the mineral helps with blood cell formation and can prevent anaemia and fatigue.

As well as a range of helpful vitamins and minerals, sugar snap peas are great for anyone who is trying to lose weight, as the vegetable is very high in fibre making them filling; as well as being very low in calories (approximately 70 calories for every half cup). The sweet taste of the pea, combined with these other factors, make it a great snack dish for anyone dieting who gets peckish in between meals.

Sugar snap peas have a range of health benefits and one portion counts towards your recommended 5 a day.

Fibre

Sugar snap peas are high in fibre, which is essential for the digestive system and also contributes to good heart health. Fibre helps to prevent bowel conditions, such as diverticular disease and constipation and also helps to keep the bowel in good working order. Fibre has also been proven to reduce cholesterol, which is associated with heart problems and type 2 diabetes. Fibre also helps to regulate blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of carbohydrates, which is especially important for people who have diabetes.

Folate

Folate (commonly known as folic acid) is a B vitamin, which is essential for a number of processes and actions in the body, including cell growth and repair, the production of healthy red blood cells and DNA synthesis. A folate deficiency may cause anaemia and lead to symptoms such as lethargy, weakness, loss of appetite and lack of concentration. Folate deficiencies during pregnancy can also cause damage to the growing child, so it is a good food to eat for those who are pregnant to ensure the health of their baby.

Low fat

Sugar snap peas are sweet and juicy but they do not contain fat. Fat is essential for a healthy diet but it must be monitored very closely. Taking in too much fat often results in weight gain and high cholesterol, both of which are associated with an increased risk of serious medical conditions, including heart disease, strokes and diabetes.

Nutrition Value & Vitamins

The sugar snap pea contains a range of vitamins that can provide many different health benefits. Vitamin K is a vital vitamin able to keep calcium levels at a proper level and helps to build up the strength of bones and teeth. Sugar snap peas are also very high in Vitamin C, essential for keeping the immune system healthy – a cupful of sugar snap peas contain the same amount of vitamin C as half an orange. Sugar snap peas also contain vitamin B in the form of folate or folic acid. Low levels of folate can raise homocysteine levels, which helps lower the risk of heart attacks.

Vitamin A

In one serving of sugar snap peas there is approximately 14% of your recommended daily allowance of vitamin A. Vitamin A is responsible for keeping eyes healthy by producing the pigments in our retina. Vitamin A also helps the body fight infection by assisting the nasal cavities and intestines in stopping infections.

Vitamin C

In one serving of sugar snap peas there is approximately 63% of your recommended daily allowance of vitamin C. Vitamin C is responsible for producing collagen, which creates and protects healthy skin.

Vitamin K

In one serving of sugar snap peas there is around 63% of your recommended daily allowance of vitamin K. Vitamin K is responsible for healthy bones since the vitamin helps the body use calcium correctly. It is also known for its use in helping blood to clot.

Saturated Fat and Cholesterol

Sugar snap peas are very low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making them an ideal choice for a snack or to accompany a meal.

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