Ask anyone about the best plant-based sources of protein and peas will always get mentioned.
Peas are actually one of the best plant-based sources of protein. Most vegans get their protein by including peas on their diet. On top of that, peas are not your usual plant-based protein source because they contain all of the nine essential amino acids our body needs. We’ll get to that a little later. First things first, let’s have a peak of the fundamental characteristics of peas.
In the microcategory of food, peas are not vegetables. They are part of the legume family, which consists of plants that produce pods with seeds inside. In the real world however, they’re commonly cooked and sold as a vegetable. Other variety of peas include yellow peas, black-eyed peas, purple peas, snap peas, snow peas, and green peas being the most common in any diet.
Given that peas are excellent sources of protein, they are so filling and have high fiber content. The protein in peas works together with fiber to slow digestion and promotes feeling of fullness. Also, peas have a complete protein profile, despite being relatively low in methionine. For vegans who are looking for a great plant-based protein alternative, peas would be the best option. A little tweak in your diet will easily cover what is lacking with its rich protein content.
It’s no wonder as well why pea protein powders have a huge market reputation. In the protein world, peas are a great source of branched-chain amino acids, especially arginine — which promotes healthy blood flow and heart health — and leucine, isoleucine and valine — which promote muscle growth. During the boom of plant-based protein sources, various medical evidences and studies are conducted that proved pea protein as an effective post workout diet. This shows that pea protein powder can actually help build muscle mass as more as common dairy-based protein powders.
So, if you’re vegan or simply wants to shift from dairy to plant-based, it’s a guarantee that peas will provide your sufficient protein needs.
