Peanut Butter is our Jam

AN EPIC-PANACEA study suggests that eating peanut butter reduces a person’s risk of being overweight or obese.

A recent study compared the dietary and lifestyle data of over 373 000 people from 10 countries around the world over five years. It revealed that for over 51 000 women, those who ate peanut butter twice weekly or more experienced slightly less weight gain over an eight-year period than women who rarely ate peanut butter.

ALSO read: Make your own peanut butter with this easy recipe

According to the study, peanut butter provides a good amount of protein, along with essential vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, potassium and zinc.

When selecting a peanut butter product, the study recommends eating homemade peanut butter or looking for one that contains just peanuts and few or no other ingredients.

Eating peanut butter in moderation and as part of an overall healthful diet may provide the following health benefits:

• Weight loss: Several studies suggest that eating peanuts and other nuts can help people maintain their weight, or even help with weight loss.
• Boosting heart health: Peanut butter contains many nutrients that can improve heart health, including vitamin E, niacin, magnesium, polyunsaturated fatty acids and monounsaturated fatty acids. High intake of peanut butter is linked to a reduced risk of mortality from heart disease and other causes.
• Bodybuilding: Many bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts include peanut butter in their diets for various reasons. Spreading peanut butter on whole-grain bread makes a more complete protein meal as the bread contains the amino acid methionine, which peanut butter lacks.
• Managing blood sugar: Peanut butter is a relatively low-carbohydrate food that contains a good amount of fats and protein, as well as some fibre. These characteristics mean that peanut butter, with no added sugar, does not have a significant impact on blood glucose levels. This means it can be a good option for those with diabetes.
• Reducing the risk of breast diseases: Eating peanut butter, especially from a young age, may reduce the risk of benign breast disease (BBD). BBD can increase the risk of breast cancer.

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