Philadelphia, PA - Is peanut butter healthy? Here are some reasons why you should stick with natural peanut butter. This article will address whether natural peanut butter is better for your health than conventional peanut butter, how Monounsaturated fats in peanut butter can help you lower your risk of heart disease, and whether PB&Js are bad for you. Read on for more information.
Natural Peanut Butter Is Healthier Than Conventional
While commercial peanut butter is healthier than natural versions, you can get the same nutritional value from genuine brands. Natural peanut butter contains no controversial ingredients, such as hydrogenated vegetable oils and corn maltodextrin. Instead, it is made without trans fat, linked to increased heart disease and stroke risk. This ingredient is also widely condemned by organic advocates. However, you may prefer natural peanut butter over commercial brands if you want a healthier version of your favorite snack.
The Monounsaturated Fat In Peanut Butter Lowers Risk Of Heart Disease
Peanuts are a healthy snack for your heart. The main fat in peanuts is oleic acid, which helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure. These factors contribute to the reduced risk of heart disease. Additionally, the monounsaturated fat in peanuts can reduce the amount of harmful LDL cholesterol in the blood. It has been found that regular peanut intake can lower the risk of colorectal cancer. Besides being good for the heart, peanut butter also contains vitamin E and manganese. Antioxidants help protect the body from chronic diseases, and peanuts contain coumaric acid, which increases antioxidant activity when roasted.
Vitamin E In Peanut Butter Helps Fight Cancer
The nutrients in peanut butter, such as vitamin E, have the potential to fight cancer. This nutrient is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from free radical damage. Free radicals are known to be precursors to cancer, and peanut butter contains phytosterols. These compounds stop cancer cells from growing. According to Dr. Manoj K. Ahuja of Sukhda Hospital, consuming at least five grams of peanut butter daily may reduce a person's risk of developing pancreatic cancer by nearly 30 percent.
Pb&js Are Unhealthy
There are two basic theories as to why PB&Js are unhealthy. The first is that peanut butter and jelly contain fat. While peanut butter and jelly have some fat, these are primarily monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for the body because they reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels. The second hypothesis is that peanut butter and jelly are equally healthy. However, this is not the case. Both theories are wrong.
PB Is A Good Source Of Plant-based Protein
If you're looking for a quick and easy source of plant-based protein, consider peanut butter (PB). One ounce of PB contains 8.5 grams of protein, and one tablespoon of PB includes a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids. Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are an excellent snack and salad topper. You can even roast them yourself to enjoy with a glass of milk or smoothie. But perhaps your favorite way to enjoy PB is as a sandwich spread!
