AN UPDATE ON THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF PEANUTS..

Groundnuts are among the best sources of protein in the plant kingdom. They contain phenols in generous quantity (a very important anti-oxidant). They have been condemned by some to be high in fat, but this is mostly mono-unsaturated fat (the good kind of fat). They also contain vitamin E, copperr, folate, magnesium, arginine and fibre which are very heart friendly. Here are some other benefits of Groundnuts that are quite less than obvious:

1.) Reduces the risk of colon cancer: A number of studies have discovered Groundnuts to have folic acid, phytosterols, phytoc acid and resveratrol which have caancer cancelling effects. Just eating the stuff two or more times a week has been associated with a 27% lowered risk of colon cancer in men and about 54% in women!

2.) Update on its Phytochemical Contribution: Groundnuts haave been found to contain P-cuomaric acid and oleic acid which protect the heart and prevents infections. They also lessen the risk of stomach cancer by preventing the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines in the stomach.

3.) Memory Boosters: Vitamin B3 which is abundant in Groundnuts not only boosts memory but also controls and reduces cholesterol levels. Their omega-3 fatty acid content is also a wonderful nourisher of the brain.m

4.) Helps prevent Blood Related Problems: Groundnuts are beneficial in treatment of hemophilia and nose bleeding.. women suffering from excessive menstrual bleeding also benefit from its consumption5.) Combatting Depression: Groundnuts haave tryptophan which are precursors of serotonin (the happy hormone). Tryptophan may raise serotonins’ anti-depressant effect when ingested.

6.) Lowers Risk of Weight Gain: Research has shown that people who eat nuts at least two times weekly are much less likely to gain weight than others. With this in mind, it is also very important you know this: a handful of peanuts (50g) contains about 250kcal; if you are on a weight loss regimen, its best you let your dietitian give you alternatives to peanut or workout a plan that’ll accommodate peanuts.

7.) Skin Protection: Vitamin E in peanuts help in maintaining the integrity of mucous membrane and the skin. It also protects the skin from free radicals. The effect of Groundnuts on the skin is a whole new article on its own, just stay tuned.

Side Effects of Eating Too Many Peanuts:
1.) Peanuts are high in calories (viz their oil content). This could cancel their weight loss effect.
2.) Phytic acid in Groundnuts could interfere with the absorption of minerals.
3.) Salted peanuts are high in sodium which are not heart friendly.
4.) Groundnuts if excessively consumed can cause acne and pimples. They contain fatty acids which enter the sebum of blocked sebaceous glands and trigger inflammation of these glands, causing pimples.
5.) They are frequently contaminated withh a carcinogenic mould called aflatoxin.

Tip: To improve the protein in peanut, brewers yeast can be mixed into it. This is especially useful for vegetarians.

Serving Suggestion:
1.) Add peanuts to steamed vegetables for great flavor.
2.) Serve your popcorn with Groundnuts for a complete and delicious snack.
3.) Toast to enhance flavor. Bake for 5-10 minutes in a 350 degree oven.
4.) Top hot or cold cereal with peanuts for a nourishing breakfast.
5.) Sprinkle peanuts on top of non-fat yoghurt.