For many people in the United States (and even around the world) peanuts and other types of nuts, like pecans and walnuts, are some of their favorite foods. Peanuts in particular have had long lasting popularity in the United States and are an incredibly versatile product, transformed into refined peanut oil and peanut butter as well as a number of other products. Peanuts as well as peanut products like the ever popular peanut butter make up nearly 70% of all of the nut consumption that happens in the United States. In fact, in 2013 alone peanut farms in the United States exported a quantity of over 300,000 metric tons of peanuts and peanut products like refined peanut oil. Peanut butter in particular is well loved, and has become a staple in most American households. In fact, an estimated 90% of all families and households in the United States consume peanut butter on a regular basis – and this doesn’t even account for other peanut products like refined peanut oil, which can be utilized as part of cooking many different recipes. It’s estimated that people in the United States consume over 100 million pounds of peanut butter every single year.
And nuts of all varieties (though particularly peanuts) can have a positive impact on your health. Peanuts are a food that is rich in protein, containing over seven grams in just one one ounce serving. That same serving size also has more than two grams of fiber. Macademia nuts are another good source of fiber, and contain a comparable amount to the fiber found in peanuts. Pecans too have shown health benefits after consumption, actually raising the amount of antioxidants in a persons’ bloodstream for a full 24 hours after consumption. Most nuts have shown a positive effect on the brain function of the consumer, with walnut consumption pointing towards increased comprehension (with nearly 40% of american walnuts grown in the United States, they are mostly in abundant supply). Even more benefits can be gained from nut consumption, including a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease alongside reduced risk of diabetes and even cancer. Raw macademia nuts, aside from containing a good amount of fiber, can also help to provide vitamin B1 as well as magnesium.
Nuts have also been found to have many uses. Most nuts can be snacked on as is, or roasted and salted for added flavor. Almost any type of seasoning can be put on nuts, enhancing the natural flavor or compounding on it. Nuts are also frequently used in baking, giving an extra crunch to baked goods like brownies and cookies. Nuts are found in pasta sauce (like pine nuts in pesto), salads, and breads. Refined peanut oil uses include cooking and baking. Truly, nuts are everywhere. And for those who are concerned about their children developing a nut allergy, studies have shown that around 98% of all children in the United States are able to consume nuts without fear of allergy. From refined peanut oil to peanut butter to walnuts, nuts can be useful in a multitude of ways, ways that you might not even think possible at first look.
