Peanuts not only are tasty and have a great crunchy texture, but they are healthy too. Peanuts can be consumed roasted, in salads, salted, as butter etc. Basically, all nuts are healthy but peanuts are the cheapest of them all and are easily available. Here are the top health benefits of peanuts, get adding them to your meals now!
RICH IN PROTEIN
Peanuts are rich in protein, no wonder they are used in post-workout meals and smoothies. Peanuts provide us with proteins which are building blocks and help in building lean muscle. Generally, people lookout for chicken for protein source, in the case those who do not eat chicken can have peanuts or peanut butter for a healthy dose of protein. More: Best vegetarian protein sources >>
ENERGY BOOSTER
Peanuts are one of the well-known energy boosters! Since peanuts have good amounts of proteins and fats, it can provide you with the ample amounts of energy to go on whole day. If you are feeling tired or low on energy, have peanut bars or simply munch on roasted peanuts for that instant dose of energy!
HEALTHY FAT
The presence of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in peanuts help in lowering the levels of LDL while improving HDL levels. The fat does not increase your body fat percentage which is great!
NUTRITION
Peanuts are also rich in fibre and protein which makes it a great after-work out snack and also balances metabolism. Peanuts unlike other nuts contain selenium and are rich in healthy fats. It is a great source of potassium, magnesium, vitamins, iron and calcium. More: Peanut tea recipe and benefits >>
WEIGHT LOSS
When you try to lose weight, you are required to consume proteins and fibre- peanuts provide you with both these factors. Also, you are required to consume less calories which in turn makes you feel tired due to lack of energy. Peanuts are energy boosters and low in calories so they make a great ingredient when you are trying to lose weight.
HEALTHY HEART
Cardiologists always recommend having plenty or at least a handful of unprocessed nuts daily to maintain the health of your heart and prevent any heart diseases in long run. Regular consumption of peanuts can lower your risk of developing atherosclerosis which is a cardiovascular disease in which the arteries shrink and become thin and narrow. Incorporate peanuts in your salads and peanut butter in your breakfast for good results. More: Peanut butter vs almond butter >>
ANTI OXIDANT SOURCE
Yes, peanuts are a good source of anti-oxidants. The anti-oxidants become more active when the peanuts are boiled. The content of biochanin-A and genistein increase 4-fold that reduces the damage done by free radicals in the body.
GOOD SOURCE OF NIACIN
Niacin is nothing but vitamin B3 which is essential for proper functioning of cells. It also helps regulate our metabolism because this vitamin is responsible for breaking down of food into energy. Another great thing about this vitamin is that it increases out immunity that helps keep cold, flue and common infections at bay.