What is peanut butter ?
Peanut butter benefits the entire body which is why it is a highly regarded nutritious food. Peanut butter, which is made from ground peanuts, is rich in protein and has been used as meat protein alternative. It is a favorite addition to meals, snacks and desserts as it has a distinctly rich flavor. Certainly, most kids and adults love food products made with peanut butter because not only are they flavorful, they also make healthy snacks even for those who are trying to lose weight. Athletes also take advantage of peanut butter benefits by making it a sports food.
History of Peanut Butter
The numerous peanut butter benefits had long been noticed since the ancient times. This food product has gone through lots of changes and modifications throughout history, but it was a physician in St. Louis who first discovered and used it as a protein substitute for patients with very bad teeth. It was Dr. John Kellog and his brother who patented the process of making peanut butter in 1895, and was officially launched in 1904 during the St. Louis World’s Fair.
Health Benefits of Peanut Butter
Here are some of the well-known peanut butter benefits.
- Peanut butter contains healthy fats which help eliminate or reduce the chances of cholesterol build-up or heart-related problems.
- This food product has good levels of protein. For instance, just 1 tablespoon of peanut butter with wheat bread makes a healthy snack especially for those who are trying to lose or maintain their weight.
- Peanut butter also plays a role in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease and other dreadful illnesses like cancer and heart diseases.
- Due to the healthy fats found in peanut butter, gallstones as a result of high cholesterol levels will less likely occur.
- Peanut butter contains just a small amount of calcium, but it is of great help in keeping the bones healthy. It also has iron which helps in promoting healthy blood circulation and function. In addition, the potassium it holds is very important in managing and preventing hypertension.
Side Effects of Peanut Butter
Though there are plenty of peanut butter benefits, some unwanted side effects can occur when it is not processed properly. Problems often arise when it is contaminated, with the affected individual exhibiting flu-like symptoms.
- Fever
Individuals affected by contaminated peanut butter should be given plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
- Abdominal Cramps
Aside from abdominal cramps, the patient may also experience nausea and vomiting which could last up to 4 hours. The patient should be brought to the hospital immediately once this occurs.
- Diarrhea
Treatment should never be delayed when the patient passes watery or loose stools as this could lead to dehydration. Diarrhea often occurs between 12 and 72 hours following the ingestion of contaminated peanut butter.
Nutritional value of peanut butter
Peanut butter benefits the health due to the impressive amounts of nutrients found in it. Here is the nutritional information per 2 tablespoon serving of peanut butter.
- Protein 8g
- Fiber 2g
- Fat 16g
- Cholesterol 0mg
- Calories 190
- Folate 6% of RDA
- Vitamin E 15% of RDA
- Magnesium 10% of RDA
- Niacin 20% of RDA
- Phosphorus 10% of RDA
