Power Up With Pea Protein!
Research has found that the intake of pea powder decreases high blood pressure and further lowers the risk of heart diseases
Pea protein is a dairy-free and gluten-free protein powder which has gained a lot of popularity among gym-goers and health-conscious individuals. Pea protein powder is extracted from yellow split peas. The peas are first dried and then ground to obtain a fine flour. It is then mixed with water and starch and the fibre is removed, One scoop or 30 grams of pea protein powder contains approximately 23 grams of protein.
Pea protein is known as a complete protein as it incorporates all nine essential amino acids which serve as building blocks of protein. It also includes branched-chain amino acids. Moreover, this powder is a safe option for individuals who are vegan, lactose intolerant, allergic to soy and gluten-sensitive Pea protein powder is an abundant source of arginine, an amino acid required for building muscles. Thus, it is very useful for individuals who wish to boost their muscles. The yellow split peas has a unique composition that provides an array of health benefits and some of these are mentioned here.
Increases Muscle Mass
Research claims that during resistance training, ingestion of pea protein powder may maximize muscle gain. It was further observed that the impact of pea protein intake on muscle thickness and muscle strength was as good as the impact of whey protein.
Pea protein, rich in branched chain amino acids, includes valine, leucine, and isoleucine that plays a vital role in the synthesis of muscle protein. Leucine helps in repairing muscle damage caused due to resistance exercises.
Controls High Blood Glucose Levels
If you are diabetic, pea protein is definitely useful for you because it plays a huge role in managing your blood glucose levels. An interesting study observed that addition of pea protein to meals helps in lowering high blood glucose levels. This suggests that pea protein is a value added ingredient, which when added to other foods, helps in glycemic control. It slows down the entry of glucose into the bloodstream and thus prevents sudden spikes in the blood glucose levels.
Fights High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure increases the risk of heart diseases and stroke. Research has found that the intake of pea powder decreases high blood pressure and further lowers the risk of heart diseases. It enhances dilation of arteries and ensures smooth blood flow throughout the body without putting any strain on the heart. Nourishing components present in pea protein powder inhibit the enzymes that raise blood pressure and exert pressure on the walls of the arteries and blood vessels. Together with sodium restriction and regular exercise, inclusion of pea protein powder can do wonders for hypertensives.
Lowers Bad Cholesterol
Pea proteins possess cholesterol and triglyceride lowering activity. It stimulates the excretion of bile acids, a substance required for the digestion of fat, which is made in the body from cholesterol. Hence, more cholesterol is used to produce bile acid and less of it is present in the blood.
Pea protein further inhibits the enzymes that are involved in the formation of cholesterol. Besides, it suppresses the deposition of fatty acids in the body and increases the use of fat for the production of energy to be utilized by the body.
Supports A Healthy Heart
Researchers have found that the intake of plant-based protein such as pea protein cuts down the risk of heart diseases. It was further observed that pea protein effectively lowers high blood pressure, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, and high cholesterol levels. All the three factors mentioned above are linked to the onset of heart diseases. Hence, reduction in the risk factors directly lowers the chances of heart diseases.
Pea protein also helps in weight loss and fat loss. Having a lot of fat around the waist is an indicator that you are at a higher risk for heart problems. Pea protein increases lean body mass and reduces the deposition of excess fat in the body. Hence, it enhances weight loss as well as fat loss.
How To Incorporate Pea Protein In Your Diet
- Add pea protein to a glass of your favorite smoothie
- Add it to pancake batter
- Increase the protein content of your soups by adding pea powder to it
- You can even add it to homemade granola bars
Pea protein is a safe and natural option to enhance your overall protein intake. Also, besides promoting muscle gain, it is beneficial for diabetics, hypertensives, and individuals with high cholesterol levels.