5.12.2009

An Ode to Peas - Protein for Vegans


Eat your peas! Grandma was right! Many times I am asked "How do you get any protein???" as if I am going to fall over from lack of protein at any moment. First of all, there is a debate as to how much protein we actually need. Where did this obsession with protein come from, it is not as if we are all hunters and gladiators? Second, vegans have plenty of resources for protein in plant based foods- this brings me to peas. When I read about the health benefits of peas I was shocked, especially with the high protein content.

Peas are of the same family that beans are - Legumes. Legumes are high in folate, phosphorus, potassium, iron, zinc, calcium, and selenium, and B6. Peas pack a super punch with 8 vitamins, 7 minerals, dietary fiber and protein (lots of it). I had no idea that peas contained fiber OR protein! In one cup of peas you can pick up 35% of your daily fiber and 6.4 grams of protein - that is more protein that 2 tbsp of peanut butter! Many foods high in fiber and protein are also high in calories, peas are a great source of protein and fiber without adding pounds.

There are now studies being done on protein in the diet and in particular too much protein. In the December 2006 Issue, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, findings indicate that those consuming less protein have lower levels of certain hormones that have been linked to cancer. If you are concerned about protein do some research and most important - relax and eat your peas!

TIPS
- Canned peas are not only gross but they also contain a ton of sodium and most of the nutrients are missing after all the processing - best to eat them raw.
- Dried peas retain their fiber and protein content and are still very nutritious.
- Yellow peas are a must try
- Asian markets are a great source of snap peas all year round

MEDICAL RESEARCH
Medical Study on Peas and High Blood Pressure
Too Much Protein Increase Cancer Risk?

5.01.2009

Pineapples - Powerful Digestion Aide Full of Enzymes



Pineapple is one amazing fruit often taken for granted. I had a photo shoot with my pineapple the other night and thought I would share. In the process of turning away from western medicine I find it important to dig deep into the health benefits and scientific evidence of plant based foods put here on earth. Nature did not intend for humans to heal in the form of a pill from a warehouse - everything we need comes from the soil and the ocean. In my research I found out many things about Pineapples that make me love them even more and include them more in my life. This fruit is more than a Vitamin C load!

What stood out the most for me is the enzyme load in pineapples over many plant based foods. . I did a post a few weeks back on the power of raw foods to deliver the enzymes our bodies need to stay alive. Food Enzymes Biggest Cancer Fighter While doing research on enzymes I found out that Papaya and Pineapple are the top two fruits for enzymes due to Bromelain. Bromelain has widely been investigated for its' digestive enzymes. These enzymes particularly target the breakdown of protein which eases digestion. A raw cup of pineapple is full of this goodness! Pineapple enzymes are also good for the blood and are thought to be anti-inflammatory. It is suggested Pineapple enzymes limit the tendency for blood clots and also improve circulation through the arteries.

PINEAPPLE SOURCES & LINKS
Research Shows Promise of Pineapple for IBS
WHFoods: Pineapple

TIPS
-Pineapples are in season May - June
-Let your pineapple ripen before eating
-Select a pineapple that is already turning golden
-1 Cup of pineapple has 94% DV of Vitamin C
-Organic tastes better and is better for you
-Frozen Pineapple still contains the enzymes
-Do not eat it out of a can.
-The health benefits of Pineapple are plentiful!