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.

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.

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.