Peanuts - Health Benefits

Peanuts - Health Benefits

Family: Fabaceae
Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea), also referred to as groundpeas or groundnuts, are an annual herbaceous legume with an indeterminate growth habit.  As these alternate names imply, this unique plant produces its fruit (peanut) below ground.  Once the small yellow flowers are self-pollinated, the fertilized ovary elongates into a “peg,” which grows downward and penetrates into the soil.  Peanuts develop underground at the ends of the pegs.  The peanut seed is referred to as a kernel and the outer shell is called a pod or hull.

1. Nutrients dense 
HIGHEST in folate, niacin, panthothenic acid and many amino acids (including arginine).
VERY HIGH in fiber, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, thiamin, vitamin E, and choline.
HIGH in calcium, iron, copper, manganese, selenium, riboflavin, and vitamin B6.

2. Heart health 
May help to lower serum triglycerides, total and LDL cholesterol levels.
High in plant protein which may help reduce the risk of heart disease and to lower blood pressure.

3. Weight control and weight loss 
High protein and fiber content promotes a feeling of fullness more than high carbohydrate snacks.
Harvard researchers have shown that it may be easier to lose wright on a moderate fat diet that included peanuts and healthy oils versus a low-fat diet.

4. Diabetes 
Low glycemic index
Emerging research has shown evidence that foods with low glycemic index values may keep blood sugar and insulin levels in optimal ranges and may be beneficial in reducing the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

5. Cancer 
Contain cancer-fighting compounds such as resveratrol and beta-sitosterol Beta-sitosterol has been shown to inhibit breast, prostate, and colon cancer cell growth.