The Awesome Health Benefits of Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is not just for the kids lunches, it can be a super healthy addition to anyone’s diet. Here are some of the top health benefits of peanut butter, and how to incorporate it into your life.

It’s a Good Source of Protein

Peanut butter is a great source of vegetarian protein when you’re trying to add a protein boost to a snack or a meal. A standard serving of peanut butter is two tablespoons, which will give you seven grams of protein. Try adding it into your protein drinks or smoothies, or melting it into your breakfast oatmeal. As you may know protein is important for repairing the muscles and for keeping you full throughout the day.

Peanut Butter is Heart Healthy

Peanut butter contains plenty of fat, but it has enough of the heart healthy unsaturated fat that makes it good for you. Eating moderate amounts of good peanut butter can actually be good for your heart health. Do keep in mind that what kind of peanut butter you eat really does matter. Skip the ones with added sugar even though they taste delicious. That sugar can add up, and those versions also contain preservatives that you don’t need. Go for the all natural versions that are simply ground up peanuts. If you’re used to the sugary kind the texture might seem a little different at first, but you’ll quickly adjust and actually be able to appreciate the great taste of the peanut in a more pure state.

It’s a Good Source of Potassium

When we eat salt we need potassium to counteract the effects of it, and many of us aren’t getting enough potassium. Peanuts are a good source, which makes peanut butter a great post workout snack. Again try to go for the natural kinds that don’t have a ton of added sodium. You can also find peanut butters that have added flaxseed which can bump up the health factor and add in some omega-3 fatty acids.

It’s a Good Source of Fiber

In addition to being a good source of protein and fat, peanut butter is also a good source of fiber. Each two tablespoon serving contains two grams, which is another reason why it can be so filling. The benefit of course to eating healthy food that’s filling, is that you will be less likely to overeat later, or even to crave crappy food. That’s why despite the high fat and calorie content of peanut butter it can actually be used as an effective tool to help you lose weight when you keep portion control in mind.

All the Nutrients

Peanut butter is also full of vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of antioxidants including vitamin E, and a bit of vitamin B6 and zinc. Vitamin E can help reduce cholesterol in the body, and its antioxidant power is important for getting rid of free radicals in the body that cause disruptions and lower the immune system.