Peanuts are one of the top allergic foodsand consequently, have gotten a bad rap.
But are they unhealthy for everyone?
Here, we consider five common questions about peanuts and provide science-based answers.
Raw Peanuts.Photo: - Photo © Melissa Mayntz
Our number one reason?
They’re technically a legume, not a nut.
Despite that distinction, they do share a lot of properties with other nuts.
What’s your peanut IQ?
Here are a few common questions people have about peanuts and the answers.
Are All Peanut Products Off-Limits for People with Peanut Allergies?
For the most part, yes, but there is one big exceptionhighly refined peanut oil.
That’s because the protein, which triggers the allergic response, has been removed from the oil.
Of note: Aromatic peanut oil is less refined and contains peanut protein.
If you have a peanut allergy, this oil needs to be avoided.
Can Peanuts Lead to Weight Gain?
Like other nuts, peanuts have good-for-you mono- and polyunsaturated fats.
Peanuts might even help with weight loss.
In a 2022 study inNutrients, researchers compared two groups.
One group ate a reduced-calorie diet plus 35 grams of peanuts prior to two main meals each day.
The other group ate a typical low-fat diet.
Both groups had similar amounts of weight loss and similar blood sugar levels after six months.
And compared to the low-fat diet group, the peanut-eating group had greater reductions in blood pressure.
Like other nuts, peanuts also contain fiber, which helps make them satiating.
That 1-ounce serving of peanuts has about 2.5 g of fiber.
And we know thatfiber helps with weight loss.
Do Peanuts Contain Anti-Aging Compounds?
Peanuts contain resveratrol, the same polyphenol found in red wine.
Resveratrol may also have anti-aging effects on your skin.
Want to get as much resveratrol as you’re free to from peanuts?
According to another 2022 study inMolecules, soaking peanuts can increase resveratrol levels.
Is Peanut Flour Gluten-Free?
Although peanut flour would definitely be an allergen for people with peanut allergies,it is gluten-free.
Do People Who Eat Peanuts Have Lower Rates of Chronic Diseases?
According to a 2022 review inFrontiers in Nutrition, eating peanuts can lower blood triglycerides (fat).
In this study, nuts included peanuts, walnuts, seeds and other nuts.
