No, I don't like peanut butter. I love it. I'm nuts about peanut butter. I love it even more knowing that its good for me and that it has a lot of great health benefits as well.
I know a lot of people that are trying to lose weight mostly give up foods such as peanut butter because it is considered a "bad food" because it contains a lot of fat.
First of all, the fat that is in peanut butter is a healthy fat. It can actually help you lose weight. Second of all, over processed peanut butter with stupid chemicals is bad for you. Natural and organic peanut butter is good for you.
Peanuts are a very good source of monounsaturated fats, the type of fat that is emphasized in the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet.
In addition to their monounsaturated fat content, peanuts feature an array of other nutrients that, in numerous studies, have been shown to promote heart health. Peanuts are good sources of vitamin E, niacin, folate, protein and manganese.
Not only do peanuts contain oleic acid, the healthful fat found in olive oil, but new research shows these tasty legumes are also as rich in antioxidants as many fruits.
People who eat nuts at least twice a week are much less likely to gain weight than those who almost never eat nuts. (source)
There are so many great ways to enjoy peanuts and peanut butter without feeling quilty. Here are some great (and healthy!) ways to include peanut butter in yours meals/snacks:- Spread some peanut butter on a slice of whole wheat bread.
- Cut up some apples and carrots (or whatever you like!) and dip into peanut butter.
- Sprinkle a small handfull of peanuts in your cereal or yogurt.
- Bake some Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Oat Bites
- Make your own Peanut Butter Protein Fudge
