Peanuts are the most common and affordable nuts used extensively in Indian cuisine. Also known as groundnuts and earth nuts, they belong to the family of legumes but possess all the properties similar to nuts.

The oil extracted out of pressed peanuts is called as groundnut oil. These nuts are also consumed in the form of salted, roasted whole peanuts, peanut butter, chikki, chutney and in curries.

If you are a diabetic, snack on fistful of peanuts to deal with your hunger pangs and for instant energy. These nuts are rich in protein, monounsaturated fat, and other essential nutrients such as biotin, copper, magnesium, phosphorus and vitamin E.

Evidence reveals that regular intake of peanuts is beneficial in losing weight and lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Health Benefits Of Peanuts

Weight Loss

Peanuts are one of the preferred choices of nuts for all diet watchers.  Though high on calories and fat, peanut does not contribute to weight gain. Peanuts serve as an ideal snack that can keep your hunger pangs under control and prevent you from overeating. The richness of protein and monosaturated fatty acids in peanuts boosts metabolism and increases energy expenditure.

Heart Health

The myriad of heart-healthy nutrients in peanuts such as magnesium, copper, niacin, oleic acid and antioxidant resveratrol help in maintaining heart health, lowering cholesterol and by reducing the risk of heart disease. In addition, the antioxidant resveratrol in peanuts prevents stroke by increasing the production of nitric oxide.

Prevents Gall Stone Formation

Peanuts are a good choice of nuts to lower the risk of gallstones in both men and women. Evidence proves that the lipid-lowering effects of peanuts are beneficial in preventing the formation of gallstones. All you need to do is add about 30 grams of peanuts every week to lower risk of gall stone formation by 25%.

Lowers Cancer Risk

The host of plant compounds in peanuts such as P-Coumaric acid and resveratrol have the potential to lower the risk of cancer by reducing the formation of cancerogenic nitrous amines. Studies in particular have shown that regular intake of peanuts lowers the risk of stomach and colon cancer.

Healthy Skin

The goodness of vitamin E and other essential minerals in peanuts help in maintaining the integrity of the cell membrane and guards the skin against free radical damage. The anti-inflammatory properties of peanuts treat skin condition like psoriasis and eczema. Regular intake of peanuts makes your skin glow naturally and combat bacteria causing acne.