Peanuts, also known as ground nuts, are among the most popular nuts in the world, even though they are not part of the nut family. Peanuts are classified as legumes. However, they have the same nutritional value as most tree nuts. They are full of vitamins, minerals, fibre, and plant protein. You can consume them either roasted, salted or as peanut butter. Here are a few reasons why you should add them to your diet.
1. Lower Risk of Diabetes
Peanuts are considered the best for people with diabetes or at risk of diabetes. They are high in fibre, magnesium, and other healthy oils that play a role in lowering blood sugar levels. How to live with diabetes
2. Promote Heart Health
Consuming peanuts regularly can help promote good heart health. Peanuts help to lower harmful cholesterol levels that cause plaque development in the blood vessels. Peanut skin is also known to reduce inflammation that causes heart diseases. Different Types Of Heart Disease And Managing Them
3. Help in Weight Management
It might be time to trade carb snacks for peanuts if you love snacking. They are high in calories and are known to be energy dense. Including them in your diet not only makes you full, but you also consume fewer calories in a day. Furthermore, they help in weight control by ensuring only good cholesterol remains in your body.
4. Prevent Gallstones
Gallstones are pebble-like pieces of bile that form in the gallbladder. Although they can affect anyone, women are often more prone to getting them than people over 40 and overweight individuals. Consuming peanuts regularly can help to lower the risk of getting gallstones.
5. Promote Healthy Skin
Peanuts contain vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc that help fight off bacteria that cause acne and protect your skin from sun damage. They also contain vitamin C, which boosts collagen levels, improving skin elasticity and firmness. How To Restore Collagen To Your Skin Naturally
6. Rich in Antioxidants
Peanuts are rich in phenols, a form of antioxidant. This antioxidant helps to protect your cells against the harmful effects of free radicals that cause health issues.
7. Improve Sexual Function
Regarding libido, peanuts are one of the best boosters, especially for men. They are rich in arginine, an amino acid that helps improve sexual function in men. It also helps with erectile dysfunction due to its ability to relax blood vessels. What Is Erectile Dysfunction And The Best Ways To Treat It
8. Contain Antidepressant Qualities
Research published by the European Journal of Nutrition showed that eating peanuts regularly can help to lower anxiety and depression levels. They contain high levels of tryptophan which helps to increase serotonin in the brain. The exact process that occurs when one consumes anti-depressant pills. Therefore, peanuts can go a long way in reducing symptoms of depression. Mental Health: 7 Common Types Of Depression
Safety and Precaution
Peanuts have multiple benefits for your body. However, they can also have side effects. For this reason, it is essential to consume them moderately. Overconsumption can inhibit iron production or cause allergic reactions.
It is also essential to store them well to prevent aflatoxin poisoning. The best way to ensure this is to always store them in a place with low humidity and temperature. If you experience nausea, chest pain, drowsiness, or swelling of the face, tongue, or lips, consider going for a checkup. These are all common symptoms of peanut allergy.
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