Peanut is a type of legume that comes from South America, and it is known by different names such as earthnuts, goobers, and groundnuts. In some other countries like the United States, they rarely eat raw peanuts because of aflatoxin’s danger. It is enjoyed by many in the form of peanut butter, roasted or as toppings to different cakes and pastries. The Health benefits of peanuts are protein, fat, and load of other essential nutrients.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about peanuts and how it will affect your overall health.
1. Nutrients Rich Peanuts
Fat Content
Peanuts are indeed high in fat called as oilseeds. All over the world, a considerable portion of harvested peanuts is manufactured to produce peanut oil.
Protein Content
Aside from animal meat, peanuts are a great source of protein. Its protein content can range from 22 to 33 percent of the total calories making it the best supply of plant-based protein. However, these peanut benefits may harm people who have an allergic reaction to a specific protein type like arachin and conarachin.
Carbohydrate Content
The good news is that peanut butter good for you even if you are in a diet because it is low in carbohydrates. Peanuts are low in the glycemic index, but it is not the same with processed peanut butter because it depends on its sugar content. It makes peanuts as an ideal addition to the diet of people with diabetes.
Plant Compound
It is good to know that peanut butter nutrition comes with antioxidants and diverse plant compounds. Many studies also show that it has higher antioxidant content than other nutritious fruits such as resveratrol, p-Coumaric acid, isoflavones, phytosterols, and phyric acid.
2. Aids in Weight Loss
Most of the studies today about peanuts are related to weight loss. Peanut benefits people who are trying to lose weight. Despite being high in fat and calories, some observational studies show that consumption of peanuts can promote healthy weight gain.
The health benefits of peanuts are undeniable when it comes to weight loss, like the feeling of fullness right after eating peanuts compared to other snacks. Another factor is its monounsaturated fat that is known to have a calorie-burning effect.
3. Good for the Heart
According to the World Health Organization, one of the leading causes of death in the world is heart diseases. Studies conducted in peanuts show a significant positive effect on protecting the heart from diseases. If you want a healthy heart, peanut butter is good for you as it is packed with nutrients that are good for the heart oleic acid, niacin, copper, and magnesium.
4. Prevent the Formation of Gallstone
Two observational studies show peanut benefits in reducing the risk of acquiring gallstones for both males and females. Most of the gallstones found in the kidney come from cholesterol. The effectiveness of peanut in lowering cholesterol might be the cause. However, there is a need for more clinical studies to gain conclusive evidence for these claims.
5. Possible Side Effect of Peanuts
As mentioned in the introduction, some other countries avoid consuming raw peanuts because of aflatoxin poisoning. Peanuts are prone to mold growth like aflatoxin. Symptoms of poisoning might include loss of appetite, jaundice, and severe effect on the liver, leading to liver cancer and liver failure.
Proper storage is critical to prevent aflatoxin from growing in your peanut. There might be increased growth of this mold in a humid and warm environment or condition.
