How many times have you munched on roasted peanuts and never paid attention to the fact that maybe, it could transform your health and skin? Yes, peanuts are not just snacks. If taken in the right quantity and in the right manner, these are tasty nutritional munching items that are extremely beneficial. And that's why we thought of bringing the many amazing peanut benefits to you, so that you can stock up on it and replace your junk food with these delicious crunchy nuts. These are known by many names; groundnuts, monkey nuts, pignut or even goober peas. However, even though it's termed a nut, peanuts are actually legumes and are rich in protein. Consuming peanuts and even snacking on these is an extremely healthy habit. Although, of course, anything in excess is not good. But, a balanced consumption is extremely good. Without further ado, let us sneak a peek into the magical world of peanut benefits and find out how good it is for our health.
01What are the benefits of peanuts
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Peanuts are rich in polyphenolic antioxidants. It is also a rich source of P-Coumaric acid which is known to curb the production of carcinogenic nitrous-amines. This further helps reduce the chance of having stomach cancer considerably. Peanuts are also known to have beta-sitosterol, which is a form of phytosterol that helps inhibit tumor growth if any. Studies conducted in the US have also proved peanuts' efficiency in reducing the risk of colon cancer.
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Research has proved that if you have approximately an ounce ofpeanut butteror raw peanuts every day, it cuts down the chances of having gallstones by around 25%. It also helps reduce the chances of having gall bladder-related diseases.
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Mood regulation is defined by a brain chemical called serotonin. Depression happens when the nerve cells are unable to secret adequate quantities of the hormone. Peanuts can help prevent the same. This is because of the presence of an amino acid called tryptophan, in the peanuts. This acid aids the release of serotonin and has antidepressant effects on your mental health.
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Another great benefit of having peanuts regularly is that it controls your blood sugar levels. In fact, there are studies that prove that having peanuts can reduce the chances of having diabetes by nearly 21%! One reason for this may be the fact that peanuts are rich in manganese. This mineral is good at regulating blood sugar levels and also helps the body absorb calcium better. Benefits of eating peanuts at night include keeping you full for longer, preventing midnight cravings, and promoting better sleep due to the presence of tryptophan, which aids serotonin production.
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Want to know which is the best thing to snack on while pregnant? You got it right, it's peanuts! Various studies have shown that women who snack on peanuts during pregnancy have nearly 70% lower chances of having a baby with neural tube defects. It also helps reduce the chances of the baby getting allergies.
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Children get attracted to unhealthy snacks very quickly. In today's times, when the media is specially instrumental in displaying the unhealthiest of stuff in the most attractive packaging, there is one way to keep your kids off those junk items; peanuts. These nuts, replete with proteins and essential amino acids not only make for tasty and crunchy snacks but also help in the early growth and development of children.
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Peanuts are rich in niacin and studies have proved that foods that are rich in niacin help prevent Alzheimer's by reducing the risk by almost 70%. A quarter cup of peanuts every day can actually help reduce the chances of developing Alzheimer's.
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Peanuts are also great if you wish to have flawless and blemish-free skin . This is due to the presence of various monounsaturated fats and resveratrol in peanuts that helps flush out the toxins responsible for pimples and excessive oil production. The benefits of peanuts for skin also include reducing inflammation, preventing premature ageing, and keeping the skin hydrated.
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Regular consumption of peanuts also helps prevent the process of ageing, especially when it is premature, owing to factors such as stress and pollution. Peanuts are rich in vitamin C and E that treat fine lines and wrinkles. It is also rich in resveratrol which is a potent anti-ageing phytochemical.
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Another benefit of peanuts is that it helps prevent hair loss . This is due to the abundance of vitamin C that aids the production of collagen in the body. Collagen is responsible for keeping the hair tissues together and healthy. Peanuts are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids that are known to nourish hair and add shine to it. The benefits of peanuts for skin and hair include reducing inflammation, preventing premature ageing, keeping the skin hydrated, and promoting healthy hair growth.
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Another benefit of consuming peanuts is that it improves scalp health considerably. This is due to the presence of a vitamin B derivative known as biotin which contributes towards hair growth. This vitamin is produced by the intestines and can be supplemented externally as well, especially in the event of any deficiency. If you have a severe deficiency, in that case, doctors may recommend a balanced diet rich in biotin, along with supplements.
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Peanuts are rich in proteins and fibre, which make it a healthy alternative to other forms of fried foods and snacks. Thus, regular consumption of peanuts makes it a high-satiety food that helps you feel full and lowers your appetite, at the same time maintaining your energy levels. Thus, it is a great snack to munch on if you are looking for weight loss and its management.
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Peanuts are known to prevent Alzheimer's, a disorder linked to weakening memory. The reason behind this is the presence of niacin and resveratrol, both of which are strong antioxidants that improve blood flow to the brain, thus improving its functionality. Regular consumption of peanuts is known to have a positive impact on neurodegenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer's and even Parkinson's.
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Peanuts are known to heal skin faster. That is the reason it aids the treatment of bruises and cuts at a faster pace. It also contains beta carotene, which is responsible for the growth and repair of body tissues. It also helps with conditions such as rosacea and rashes.
02How to make peanut butter at home?
Though peanuts consumed raw is the best deal, followed by its roasted form, peanut butter is also a great alternative to replace your other, fattier spreads. If you do not want to purchase store-produced peanut butter, we have the recipe right here for you. Create your own, yummy homemade peanut butter with all its goodness intact. Peanut butter benefits include being rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber, which helps with muscle building, weight management, and heart health.
Peanut butter recipe:
- Take one cup of shelled and unsalted peanuts, roasted
- Add one and a half tablespoon of peanut oil
- Blend both together with about half a teaspoon of salt
- Take out the mixture and add a little sugar or honey, as per your taste
- Blend the mixture until it becomes smooth
- Now place it in an airtight container and our peanut butter is ready
However, remember that since this peanut butter is homemade and without any preservatives, it is better to consume it within two weeks of making it. You can even add crumbs of peanuts after making this butter, to have a nuttier and chunkier version of it.
