White peas, also known as Safed vatana, or Navy Peas are healthy, highly nutritious, and rich in vitamins. These are dried peas, which are starchy and have a tougher texture, but have a more delicate feature. Since green peas are not available throughout the year, white peas make a perfect substitute, a healthy and nutritious replacement indeed. However, they are not same as the chickpeas or garbanzo beans, but because of their small size, spherical shape, and white color, they can be easily differentiated from the larger ones and are slightly beige or yellow. Due to the rich nutrition, they are also one of the superfoods for pregnancy.What are the benefits of white peas?This is known as the pregnancy superfood as white peas are source of many important micronutrient. It is rich in iron, folate and contains B vitamins, which are healthy for the mother and the baby. Beans are an excellent source of protein, providing 16 grams per cup. White peas also deliver at least 25% of the daily recommended intake of essential nutrients like thiamine, folic acid, iron, copper, potassium, phosphorus, manganese, and magnesium. A one-cup serving has 255 calories and just 1.1 grams of fat.Benefits include:A great source of protein: White beans are an excellent source of protein. When combined with regular exercise and a balanced diet, they can help promote healthy muscle mass. Amino acids, the building blocks of protein, play a vital role in processes such as muscle building, nutrient transport, and hormone production.Fiber-rich: White beans are loaded with dietary fiber. Women should aim for at least 25 grams of fiber daily, while men need about 38 grams. High-fiber diets are linked to better digestive health and help maintain bowel regularity by increasing stool mass and shortening the time between bowel movements.Great for weight management: With their high nutrient density and relatively low calorie count, white beans are ideal for maintaining a healthy weight. Their fiber and protein content promote satiety, helping you feel full longer and reducing the likelihood of overeating.Lowers cholesterol levels: White peas contain cholesterol-lowering fiber that can reduce total and LDL cholesterol levels. Additionally, vitamins and minerals like vitamin B, potassium, and magnesium in white peas support heart health by increasing good cholesterol.Glucose levels: Rich in fiber, protein, and phytochemicals such as flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids, white peas have antidiabetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. These help regulate glucose levels and protect the pancreas from free radical damage, reducing the risk of diabetes or aiding in its management.Eases bowel movements: Fiber-rich foods like white peas are excellent for maintaining bowel movements and supporting healthy gut bacteria. They bulk up stools and lower the risk of constipation. Additionally, their mineral, vitamin B, and protein content supports digestive health, reducing issues like gas and bloating.Heart Health: White peas contain phenolic compounds such as flavonoids and isoflavones, which act as antioxidants and protect the heart from oxidative stress-related conditions like atherosclerosis and stroke. Their fiber content also helps lower cholesterol and control blood pressure.B Vitamins: White peas are a great source of vitamin B1 and B3. Vitamin B1 supports energy production, muscle strength, vision, and mood regulation, while vitamin B3 improves cell function, enhances brain performance, and strengthens bones.Great for bones and teeth: White peas are rich in phosphorus, essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth, especially in children. Adequate phosphorus intake also prevents symptoms like stiff joints, weak bones, and poor appetite.