Although we have all been taught that peanut butter is high in fat content, researchers at the University of Houston found that eating peanuts helps with weight loss. Snacking on peanuts a few times a week can help maintain a healthy body weight.
The study found that 12 – 15 year olds with a high risk of becoming obese or overweight who ate peanuts or peanut butter as part of their snack 3 -4 times a week, had a significant loss of body fat.
Although peanuts are high in fat, it satisfied their hunger longer and this led to less snaking when compared to other foods.
Researchers attribute this to the presence of dense nutrients and fiber content. Feelings of fullness, were identified as two important components for this weight loss.
Also the Maastricht University Medical Centre in Netherlands reported another interesting finding on peanuts.
Consuming 10 grams of peanuts, about 15 peanuts per day lowered the risk of death.
The study was based on patients with diabetes, heart disease, cancer and other diseases. The study included more than 120,000 men and women aged 55-69 years old
There are many ways to enjoy peanuts and peanut butter, with vegetables and or fruits, so go ahead and find different recipes that might have you eating more peanuts.
