Nutritional Benefits of Eating Peanut Butter

As the name suggests, peanut butter comes from dry and roasted peanuts, grounded to make a very fine paste. It is known for its bittersweet taste. Apart from being used in sandwiches, it is now used in a wide range of recipes like pasta and salads.

Peanut butter contains important nutritional benefits, especially for vegetarians, as it is a rich source of protein. Proteins are present in high amounts (about 24 percent in weight).

Nutritional Benefits of Eating Peanut Butter:

• The majority of the fat present in peanut butter is monounsaturated fats, which when consumed in moderation can help lower bad cholesterol levels (LDL).

• Peanut butter is also high in polyunsaturated fats, which have been shown to help raise ‘good’ cholesterol levels (HDL).

• Peanut butter contains dietary fiber (though not in large amounts), which helps in reducing cholesterol levels, the risk of atherosclerosis, and colorectal cancer.

• It also contains a variety of micronutrients such as Vitamin E, Vitamin B3 (also known as Niacin), Iron, Magnesium, Potassium, Copper, and Calcium. This is significant because together these micronutrients work to aid in the recovery of DNA cells and regulate the secretion of sexual hormones.

• As per the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry, Niacin present in peanut butter, when eaten regularly, provides significant protection against Alzheimer’s disease.

• Peanut butter also contains higher amounts of antioxidants than apples and carrots.

• When made along with the skin, peanut butter is the richest source of Resveratrol. This is a natural antimicrobial agent produced by the peanut plant to ward off potential pathogens bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Go Slow:

Since peanut is an oilseed, the majority of its calories come from its oil content.

100 g of peanut butter gives:

• 21.6 of carbohydrates (86 calories)
• 49.9 g of fats (449 calories)
• 24.1 g of proteins (96 calories)

So, a total of 631 calories come from 100 g of peanut butter. And this is the reason why obese people should go slow on peanut butter.

Note: Resveratrol is so effective that scientists believe it is the force behind the French Paradox – Why the French have a lower risk of developing heart disease despite consuming a high-fat diet.