< previous page page_83 next page >

Page 83
thiamin-rich liver. That's significant because thiamin is often shortchanged in the American diet. The elderly, people under stress, and heavy drinkers are especially liable to have borderline thiamin levels; deficiency can lead to depression, sleeplessness, loss of appetite, and memory problems. Studies indicate that people who ingest higher levels of B1 improve in all these areas.
Colorful Cancer Fighters
Chlorophyllin, the pigment that makes peas green, does double duty as a cancer preventer. It latches on to cancer-causing free radicals and helps shepherd them out of the body before they can do any cellular damage.
Fiber-Rich Benefits
Peas provide more than 4 grams of soluble fiber per half-cup serving. Pea fiber is powerful stuff: studies show that it helps reduce levels of triglycerides, a factor in heart disease. It also helps reduce cholesterol, especially the dangerous LDL cholesterol that can lead to arteriosclerosis.
Another benefit: the fiber in peas slows down digestion and stabilizes blood sugar levels, which is particularly helpful to diabetics.
Tips:
Garden peas have more thiamin than sugar snap peas or snow peas. All three are good sources of iron and fiber.
Frozen peas retain a high levels of nutrientscanned peas don't. Steam rather than boil peas to retain the most nutrients.

 
< previous page page_83 next page >