Peanuts are legumes that have proven to have numerous health benefits. They are said to have originated in South America and they go by a variety of names such as groundnuts, earthnuts, and goobers. Because of their name ‘nuts’ they shouldn’t be confused to be related to nuts that originate from the trees. As legumes, they are more closely related to lentils, and soy. While most people prefer eating peanuts roasted that can also be eaten raw as long as they are properly washed before eating.

Now, let us learn some of the benefits of peanuts and why you need to consider having them in your diet below:

Peanuts are good for the health of your heart

As you probably have read in the books or online, heart disease is the number one cause of death worldwide. Studies indicate that eating peanuts on a regular basis just like other types of nuts may help to protect against heart disease.

Peanuts help to support a healthy heart due to various factors. Peanuts contain a number of heart-healthy nutrients which may include magnesium, niacin, copper, oleic acid, and multiple antioxidants.

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If you wish to shed some weight, eat peanuts

There are numerous studies which have been conducted to find the link between eating peanuts and having healthy weight. Surprisingly, despite the high fat and calorie content of peanuts, they don’t appear to whatsoever to contribute to weight gain.

In fact, observational studies show a total different finding, proving that eating peanut butter helps to maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk of obesity.

Peanuts help to prevent gallstone

The problem of gallstones affects quite a significant number of people worldwide. Two observational studies now suggest that those who eat peanuts on a regular basis are at a reduced risk of gallstones. Some scientists now think that the cholesterol-lowering effect of peanuts may be the reason behind its positive effects at preventing gallstones.

They are good source of dietary fiber

Peanuts provide a very good source of dietary fiber they contain 8.5 g per 100 g, which is just amazing. Fiber is a heart beneficial nutrient which has various beneficial effects on well-being of the heart. Studies have shown that those who eat plenty of nuts experience better blood flow, lower blood cholesterol levels, and lowered risk of heart disease.

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Peanuts can help lower blood sugar levels

Peanuts have high fiber content and it is his fiber that helps to lower blood sugar levels in the body. In addition, peanuts also contain minerals such as magnesium which have been found to help control blood sugar levels.

Peanuts may also prevent cancer

There are some studies that suggest that high peanut intake can help keep cancer at bay, especially colorectal cancer. Peanuts contain resveratrol, isoflavones, and phenolic acid all nutrients that have been established to help cut cancer risk.

Peanut intake is also associated with a reduced risk of postmenopausal breast cancer in aging women.