What do you know about peanuts? Besides the extremely well-known peanut butter and the chocolates with peanuts, what else do you know about these nuts?
Did you know that peanuts are botanically classified as legumes, being related to beans, lentils and soy? But how good are they for health?
Okay, I won't bother with so many questions. In this article, I set out to tell you what you may not know about peanuts.
I'll start with the positive side, with the benefits.
Peanuts are rich in manganese.
Manganese is a mineral that plays an important role in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates, as well as in the absorption and regulation of blood sugar, which has a beneficial effect on our cardiovascular system. Consuming 100 grams of peanuts provides the body with about 35% of the daily manganese requirement.
Peanuts are beneficial for bones.
Peanuts are rich in iron and calcium, which are elements that play an important role in supplying oxygen to the blood and strengthening bones.
Peanuts prevent gallstones.
According to some studies, to reduce the risk of developing gallstones by 25%, you need to eat 50 grams of peanuts per week.
Peanuts help fight depression.
Peanuts are good sources of tryptophan, an essential amino acid that is essential for the production of serotonin, one of the key brain chemicals involved in mood regulation.
Peanuts improve memory.
They contain vitamin B3 which has a positive effect on the body, including the normal functioning of the brain, as well as memory stimulation.
Peanuts helps lower cholesterol levels.
The high copper content helps lower bad cholesterol levels and raise good cholesterol levels.
Peanuts reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Peanuts are rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants like oleic acid. Eat some peanuts and other nuts at least four times a week to lower your risk of heart disease.
Peanuts protect against cancer.
They contain phytosterols, which not only protect against cardiovascular disease by suppressing the absorption of cholesterol, but also against cancer by suppressing tumor growth.
Of course, I have to tell you about the less positive side, about contraindications.
Peanuts can be harmful to people who have an individual intolerance to the components of the products. In general, this nut is a strong allergen, so start consuming it with a minimal amount. It is not recommended eating peanuts for people suffering from gout and osteoarthritis. Consumption of large amounts of nuts can lead to digestive disorders.
It is also worth considering the high calorie content of the product, it is worth limiting the amount of consumption in case of obesity, as well as for those who monitor their weight or follow a diet.
However, the benefits predominate, which cannot fail to rejoice.
How to choose peanuts?
When choosing peanuts, make sure the pods are clear and whole. It is not recommended buying them with a dark shell or covered with a gray powder, as this is a sign of contamination with aflatoxins, dangerous mycotoxins that cause poisoning and damage to the liver.
Salted fried peanuts should also be avoided, as excess sodium is one of the main causes of hypertension and water retention. In addition, it stimulates the appetite and can contribute to excess weight gain. It is better to eat roasted but unsalted peanuts.
Writing about peanuts, I developed a craving for a slice of bread with peanut butter. I think this is where I will end, and I will go enjoy it.