The Skinny
Behold the humble peanut, which isn’t a nut at all but rather a legume. Consumed in bars and at ballgames and almost everywhere in between, they are loaded with protein, nutrients, fiber and healthy fats—all of which can promote heart health and even help people lose weight. They are also low in carbs and are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, such as biotin, copper, niacin, folate, manganese, vitamin E, thiamine, phosphorus and magnesium. They can also be used to reduce the risk of generating gallstones. There is, of course, a flip side to peanuts, which include causing serious health conditions through potential aflatoxin contamination and phytic acid content. And then there is the issue of peanuts causing severe allergic reactions in some people, which can be extremely threatening to those involved. One other note, peanuts also have a lot of calories. In fact, 3.5 ounces of raw peanuts contain about 560 calories. The big issue here is that almost no one in the U.S. eats peanuts raw, which means most of the peanuts munched in America are processed in one way or another, which can impact their nutritional benefits. WellWell has outlined how peanuts fare in different popular forms.
The Slate
Dry Roasted Peanuts
Roasted nuts get a flavor boost compared to raw nuts. They are also easier to digest and are less likely to bring exposure to risks like Salmonella and E. coli. But, and there is almost always a but, they have an increased risk of oxidation and free radical exposure, have lots more sodium and still more fat.
Boiled Peanuts
This southern delicacy is a rich source of the antioxidant vitamin E. In fact, half a cup can provide 25 percent of the recommended daily intake. Boiled peanuts also provide a wealth of B-complex vitamins, which are needed for muscle and organ development. Sodium content, however, rises significantly when peanuts are served this way.
Cocktail Peanuts
These nuts are cooked in oil, which gives them a distinct flavor that also brings along with a bit more salt. Sized up against roasted peanuts, this variety has less manganese but more Vitamin E and phosphorus.
Shelled Peanuts
There are those peanut aficionados who not only like their nuts but their shells too. And that’s peachy so to speak, according to Virginia-Carolinas Peanuts Promotions, especially if an individual is looking for fiber because these shells have plenty of it. Of course, other than dietary fiber, peanut shells don’t have a lot going for them in terms of nutritional value. Beyond this, they can be hard to digest.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a staple of many American lives. Basically, that’s okay. But be aware that peanut butter has more calories than regular peanuts and about twice as many carbohydrates.
Eyes Up
How do you like your peanuts and why? Let us know at info@wellwellusa.com.
WellWell editors independently identify services and products of interest. If readers purchase anything through the associated links, WellWell may earn a commission, which goes to support our work. Learn More.
