Peanuts in a bowl on a wooden table, plus additional peanuts encased inside the hard shells Peanuts are a healthy and nutritious snack that ...
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| Peanuts in a bowl on a wooden table, plus additional peanuts encased inside the hard shells |
Peanuts are a healthy and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some healthy ways to eat peanuts: (look for that Pro Tip for better way to consume)
- Raw peanuts. Raw peanuts are the least processed form of peanuts and contain the most nutrients. They are also a good source of fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied. (fresh & raw peanuts it is best consumed when it is freshly harvested & boiled, as it get rids of a certain inflammatory chemical called 'Lectin')
- Roasted peanuts. Roasted peanuts are a more flavorful option than raw peanuts. They are also a good source of protein and healthy fats. (Caution: It can be highly inflammatory when consumed more than a couple dozen.)
- Peanut butter. Peanut butter is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. It is a good source of protein and healthy fats, and it can also be a healthy alternative to butter or mayonnaise. (Caution: Again, better consumed in limited quantity to avoid gut inflammation)
- Peanut oil. Peanut oil is a healthy cooking oil that is high in monounsaturated fats. It can be used for frying, sauteing, or baking.
Here are some tips for eating peanuts in a healthy way:
- Choose unsalted or lightly salted peanuts. Salted peanuts can be high in sodium, so it is best to choose unsalted or lightly salted peanuts.
- Limit your intake of processed peanut products. Processed peanut products, such as peanut butter cups and candy bars, are often high in sugar and unhealthy fats.
- Enjoy peanuts as part of a healthy diet. Peanuts are a healthy snack, but they should be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- The recommended limit for how many peanuts you should eat per day is around 24 grams. This is about a dozen of peanuts.
- If you are allergic to peanuts, better avoid and consult your doctor or dietician.
- Pro Tip: Also it is observed that the allergen in the peanuts (like a few nuts, seeds & legumes) is that they are rich in Lectins (in Sanskrit it is called 'Piththa'), which gets released when they come in contact with water based moisture. So, it is best consumed after soaking them in water for atleast 4 hours (upto 8-9 hours, and most effective, especially when the soaking water is changed every hour in the process). Slightly sprouted ones are the best.
Here are some additional health benefits of eating peanuts:
- May help lower cholesterol. Peanuts are a good source of plant sterols, which can help lower cholesterol levels.
- May help prevent heart disease. Peanuts are a good source of healthy fats, which can help protect your heart health.
- May help prevent cancer. Peanuts contain antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage that can lead to cancer.
- May help improve blood sugar control. Peanuts are a decent source of fiber, which can help slow down the absorption of glucose into your bloodstream.
- It is a rich source of protein, so will add more weight to your body. So consume it with this in mind.
Peanuts are a healthy and versatile snack that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. By following these tips, you can enjoy the health benefits of peanuts without consuming too many unhealthy fats or calories.
When to consume it.
- Peanuts are highly nutritious & energetic food and thus it makes it to be consumed during much of the colder days.
- Yogis in Indian sub-continent are said to be consuming a handful of peanuts after soaking overnight and eating it along a fruit, like a banana, to fulfill their whole day's energy needs.
They are also called ground nuts in many parts of the world, especially in India as they grow under the soil, hence the name.
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