He peanutalso known as peanut, is a dry fruit from the plant Arachis hypogaea Originally from the tropical region of South America, widely used in confectionery, it is generally eaten roasted with some salt but it can also be presented sugared 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, they also contain protein, vitamin A, vitamin B, calcium, phosphorus and zinc.
beneficial effects of peanuts for health
Its high content of omega 3 fatty acids means that peanuts have the property of lowering the levels of LDL cholesterol or bad cholesterol, 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 leads to a decrease in the risk of suffering a heart attack or a cerebrovascular accident.
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, resveratrol, which contributes to its cardiovascular protective and anti-aging effect.
Peanuts have also been shown to have an anticancer effect due to their phytosterol content, which is also beneficial in men affected by benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Some people should avoid eating peanuts
Although peanuts have a large number of beneficial properties, they should be used with caution in two conditions, food allergies and in people with fibromyalgia.
Food allergies. One of the foods that is most often associated with the development of food allergies is peanuts. This disorder can manifest with abdominal pain, diarrhea and bloating. In the most severe cases, skin rashes, itching, and swollen eyes may appear. and the lips.
fibromyalgia. An association between the appearance of fibromyalgia crises with food allergies has been described, so it is not recommended that people with this rheumatic disease eat peanuts or foods that contain them.
Photos: iStock – srdjan111 / billnoll
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