Are peas healthy for dogs?

Peas are powerhouses of nutrition that are a boon for your dog’s health and the whole planet.  They are high in nutrients, fibre and antioxidants, and have properties that may reduce the risk of several diseases.

Part of the legume family which include other pulses beans, chickpeas, lentils and lupins, peas are an excellent source of molybdenum, a very good source of dietary fibre and a good source of manganese, copper, protein, folate, vitamin B1, phosphorus, vitamin B5 and potassium.

Peas also contain high levels of antioxidants including flavonoids, carotenoids, phenolic acids and polyphenols. They also have strong anti-inflammatory properties including a number of phytonutrients found almost exclusively in peas.

Legumes are identified by scientists as being climate smart crops that fix nitrogen in the soil decreasing the reliance on synthetic fertilisers, require less energy and water for cultivation and deliver healthy, bio-available proteins.

8 Science Informed Reasons to Include Peas in Your Dog’s Diet:

1. High in Many Nutrients and Antioxidants – peas are fairly low in calories and contain several vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. They’re also high in fibre and protein. They are rich in polyphenol antioxidants, which are likely responsible for many of their health benefits. (1, 2, 3)
2. They’re Filling and an Excellent Source of Protein – peas are a very filling food, mostly due to the high amounts of protein and fibre they contain. The unique protein content of peas makes them an excellent food choice for those who do not eat animal products. (4, 5, 6, 7,  8, 9, 10, 11, 12)
3. They Support Healthy Blood Sugar Control – peas have a low glycaemic index and are rich in fibre and protein, all of which are important factors for blood sugar control. (3, 7, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17)
4. The Fibre in Peas May Benefit Digestion – peas are rich in fibre, which benefits digestion by maintaining the flow of waste through your digestive tract and keeping gut bacteria healthy. (3, 7, 18)
5. May Be Protective Against Some Chronic Diseases – peas have several properties including antioxidants. They also provide flavanols, carotenoids and vitamin C that are anti-inflammatory and may help support the body’s fight against chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes. (7, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32)
6. Improve Agricultural Biodiversity – cultivating peas in multiple cropping systems enriches agro-biodiversity, ensures resilience to climate change and improves ecosystem services. (31, 32)
7. Help Mitigate Climate Change – peas have a multiple role in promoting living organisms and ecological complexity to re-establish the natural good functioning of ecosystems. (31, 32)
8. Peas Contribute to Global Food Security – peas are important and affordable sources of protein and minerals with a low wastage footprint. (33)