Wednesday, February 9, 2011

High Protein Peanuts for Health

Peanuts are very good for health as they have a high protein content. They helps to boost energy levels. They also have a high fiber content 

Peanuts are grown in Brazil, India, Africa and China. Peanuts come in several varieties. The plants grow 30 to 50cm tall. Peanuts mature underground even though they originate on the stem. They are from the legume family and not from the nut family. Some of the common varieties are Virginia, Valencia, Spanish and Runner. They contain high levels of magnesium, fiber, folate, vitamin-E and copper. They are also rich in omega 3 fatty acids. Peanuts and peanut butter help to prevent heart disease. There are a variety of health benefits of peanuts

Peanuts
Source: Wikimedia Commons: H. Zell
Peanuts for Weight Gain

Peanuts are rich in protein. They are also are high in calories and fat content. It is a very good food for body builders and people who are weak. It helps people who are under weight to add weight. It boosts energy levels. It should be eaten in moderation to prevent weight gain 

.Other Health Benefits of Peanuts
  • It contains small quantities of calcium and vitamin D. It is good for the bones and teeth
  • As it contains good quantities of fiber, it promotes gastrointestinal health. It prevents the formation of gallstones
  • It helps to protect the heart from clogged arteries and lack of oxygen
  • Peanuts contain an antioxidant called polyphenol. Roasting increases the levels of polyphenol. It contains higher levels of antioxidants than apple, beetroot and carrots
  • Peanuts are a rich source of monounsaturated fats which help to reduce blood cholesterol levels
  • It contains niacin which protects against Alzheimer’s disease and other age related cognitive problems
  • Peanuts also contain vitamin E, an antioxidant which helps to reduce the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease
  • It is rich in bioflavonoid resveratrol which increases the blood flow to the brain and prevents strokes
  • It is a rich source of fiber which helps to reduce the risk of colon cancer
  • It makes an excellent snack for people with Type 2 diabetes as it helps to avoid a severe insulin response. It levels out sugar spikes. The chance of developing Type 2 diabetes is reduced by eating peanuts regularly
These are some of the important health benefits of peanuts

Peanut Health Risks
  • People allergic to peanuts should not eat it
  • People with kidney and gall bladder problems should avoid it
  • Peanut contains goitrogens which occurs naturally in some foods. This can interfere with thyroid functioning. So people with thyroid problems should avoid it
These are some of the health benefits of high protein peanuts

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