Peanuts are nature’s own health food, and delicious with it. Most people know that peanuts are a reliable source of energy, but raw peanuts nutrition factor goes way beyond that. They are a good source of vitamins A and E, folate, minerals like magnesium, zinc, iron, calcium, and even dietary fiber. They’re also easy to eat, as a tasty snack, mixed with raisins, in a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, and much more.
All about peanuts
Peanuts are delicious and nutritious, but in the U.S. they’re a relatively recent addition to the diet. Farmers only began growing peanuts in the early twentieth century and that all-American favorite, peanut butter, was first introduced to the world in 1904 at the St. Louis World Fair. Since that time, it’s found it’s way into American hearts and pantries, not to mention stomachs.
On average, Americans eat six pounds of peanut butter a year. Most people have a jar or two of the stuff stashed away somewhere in their kitchens. Then there’s GORP, or good old raisins and peanuts, the trail mix from your childhood that fueled all your adventures and escapades. And of course there are beer nuts, beloved by beer drinkers and non-drinkers like. All of these can be easily stored and are handy to carry around.
Benefits of eating peanuts
Peanuts are some of the healthiest nuts and and make an energizing high protein snack any time and anywhere. Various peanut products like peanut oil and peanut butter can contribute to a healthy diet and lifestyle. Raw peanuts nutrition benefits include a whole range of necessary vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and E, folate, magnesium, zinc, iron, calcium, and dietary fiber. Peanut lovers who are especially health conscious will be glad to know that there is no such thing as GMO peanuts. In fact, peanuts today share 99.9% of their genetic make up with their earliest ancestors.
Peanuts are also an excellent source of protein, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). FDA statistics show that a one ounce serving, which is just a handful to you and me, contains 7 grams of protein. No wonder mums like to pack PBJ sandwiches for their kids’ school snacks. It keeps them bright and active all day long. In fact, a study of over 15,000 schools children found that those who ate peanuts had a better diet overall than those who did not.
What about allergies?
Some people can have peanut allergies, and once they have been identified, great care should be exercised. However, only about 2% of all kids are allergic to peanuts. The vast majority or 98% can eat and enjoy peanuts without any fear or risk at all, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
Other foods that can cause allergies are nuts like pistachio and walnuts, shellfish, milk, eggs, wheat, and soy. Overall, about 4% of the population suffers from food allergies of one kind or another. The proportion is slightly higher among children under the age of five years. It’s important for allergy sufferers to identify the source of their problems and to take steps to avoid any possible contact.
Raw peanuts nutritional content makes them one of the healthiest foods. Not only do they provide a kick of protein to carry kids and adults through the toughest days, they have a number of other essential vitamins and minerals as well. Besides being healthy, peanuts are tasty, easy to store and carry. This makes them pretty much nature’s own wonder health food.
