Peanuts have been consumed as a source of nutrition for centuries and are known to be benefi cial for health. Due to these qualities, they are also used in alternative medicine for various health conditions. Peanuts can be dried and stored for an extended period, making it possible to enjoy their benefi ts throughout the year.
Peanuts generally have a similar appearance in diff erent regions, but the kernels of peanuts from some areas may vary. For example, peanuts grown in Russia and the Altai region may have smaller kernels. Whether these regional diff erences in peanuts have the same health benefi ts is still a subject of research.
The health benefi ts of peanuts are primarily attributed to the rich array of vitamins they contain. A 100-gram serving of peanuts contains an average of 567 calories. Peanuts provide vitamins A, E, and C, as well as being rich in minerals like iron, copper, calcium, and magnesium.
**Health Benefi ts of Peanuts:**
1. **Reduced Risk of Stomach Cancer**: Peanuts can help reduce the risk of stomach cancer. They are especially benefi cial for women in reducing the risk of colon cancer. Consuming at least two tablespoons of peanut butter per week can reduce the risk of colon cancer in both men and women by 27% to 58%.
2. **Anti-Infl ammatory Properties**: Peanuts, due to their high content of polyphenolic acids, can reduce the risk of developing stomach cancer by reducing the proliferation of carcinogenic nitroamines.
3. **Nervous System Health**: The polyphenolic acids found in peanuts are not only good for heart health but also benefi cial for nerve health. They may also have a positive eff ect on viral and fungal infections, and peanuts are believed to have advantages in managing Alzheimer’s disease.
4. **Gallstone Prevention**: Peanut or peanut butter can be benefi cial for gallbladder health. Just two tablespoons of peanut butter per week can help prevent the formation of gallstones and maintain gallbladder health.
5. **Cholesterol Management**: Peanuts are known to be benefi cial for managing cholesterol levels. They lower bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing good cholesterol (HDL), helping prevent coronary heart disease.
6. **Depression Management**: Peanuts contain tryptophan, which can elevate serotonin levels, potentially alleviating factors contributing to depression. They are generally good for overall mental health.
7. **Weight Management**: Regular consumption of two tablespoons of peanut butter at least twice a week can help reduce the risk of obesity, especially in women.
8. **Fertility**: Peanut consumption, both before and during pregnancy, can reduce the risk of neural tube defects by up to 70%, aiding in fertilization and reducing the risk of miscarriage.
9. **Blood Sugar Regulation**: The nutrients in peanuts, including fats and carbohydrates, help regulate blood sugar levels.
10. **Stroke Prevention**: Peanuts, including peanut butter, contain resveratrol, which increases nitric oxide production, helping regulate heartbeats and reducing the risk of stroke and heart attacks.
11. **Energy Boost**: Peanuts, with their high vitamin and mineral content, serve as a powerful energy source.
12. **Skin Health**: Peanuts contain vitamin E, which is benefi cial for skin health, protecting it from harmful sun rays. Peanut butter is also used in facial masks to cleanse the skin.
13. **Psoriasis Treatment**: Peanuts may be eff ective in treating skin conditions like psoriasis and skin redness.
14. **Protein Content**: Peanuts are a good source of protein, benefi cial for cellular health.
15. **Brain Cell Health**: Peanuts help maintain the health of brain cells.
16. **Detoxifi cation**: Peanuts assist in the healthy removal of toxins from the body.
17. **Improved Blood Circulation**: Peanuts contribute to better blood circulation, promoting overall skin health.
18. **Hair Health**: Peanuts, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, prevent hair loss and promote shiny and healthy hair.
19. **Selenium Content**: Peanuts contain selenium, which is benefi cial for the health of organs in the body.
20. **Heart Health**: Due to their overall nutritional profi le, peanuts support heart health.
21. **Bone Health**: Peanuts are benefi cial for healthy bone and muscle development.
22. **Enhanced Energy**: With their high vitamin and mineral content, peanuts provide a natural energy boost.
These are some of the many health benefi ts associated with peanuts and peanut