The peanut, also known as peanut, is a dried fruit from the plant Arachis hypogaea Originally from the tropical region of South America, widely used in confectionery, it is usually consumed roasted with some salt but it can also be presented caramelised in sweet varieties or even as part of main meals in stews, sauces and salads.
The main component of peanuts are lipids specifically of the fatty acid type, these constitute between 40 to 55% of its composition and explain the reason for its high caloric content, which is estimated at about 560 calories per 100 grams.
Peanuts are an important source of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, it also contains protein, vitamin A, vitamin B, calcium, phosphorus and zinc.
Beneficial effects of peanuts for health
Its high content of omega 3 fatty acids makes peanuts have the property of reducing the levels of LDL cholesterol or bad cholesterol by increasing HDL cholesterol or good cholesterol, which has a protective effect at the cardiovascular level related to the decrease in the development of arteriosclerosis, which lowers the risk of heart attack or stroke.
The presence of minerals such as zinc favors healing processes, hair and nail growth as well as fertility, in fact many cultures have considered it an aphrodisiac.
Another beneficial effect is its high antioxidant power that is conferred by a substance found in its shell, which is resveratrol, which contributes to its cardiovascular protective effect as well as anti-aging.
Peanuts have also been shown to have an anticancer effect due to its content of phytosterols, which are also beneficial in men affected by benign prostate hyperplasia.
Some people should avoid eating peanuts
Peanuts, although it has a lot of beneficial properties, should be used with caution in two conditions, food allergies and in people suffering from fibromyalgia.
Food allergies One of the foods that is most often associated with the development of food allergies is peanuts, this disorder can manifest itself with abdominal pain, diarrhea and bloating, in the most severe cases skin rashes, itching, swelling of the eyes can appear and lips.
Fibromyalgia An association between the appearance of fibromyalgia crisis and food allergies has been described, so it is not recommended that people with this rheumatic disease eat peanuts or foods that contain it.
Photos: iStock - srdjan111 / billnoll
