Peanut Butter for Protein and Fibre
Peanut butter has long been a part of American culture, but with so many different opinions about the spread, it can confuse those who are trying to maintain a healthy body weight. To clear the air, peanut butter is a great healthy snack when eaten in moderation. Here are some reasons why:
Peanut butter is high in monounsaturated fats, which are said to reduce the risk of heart disease. Research undertaken in the US showed a decrease of cardiovascular disease by 21% when the spread was eaten daily.
The spread also contains nutrients such as vitamin E, Niacin, Folate, protein and Manganese. Apart from this, peanut butter is a high source of antioxidants and is similar to the antioxidant content found in blackberries and strawberries.
Peanut butter also contains nutrients such as folic acid, phytosterols, phytic acid and resveratrol, which scientists believe can reduce the risks of some cancers.
Fibre: Peanut butter contains about 1 gram of fibre per tablespoon of peanut butter. While this may not be a lot, when the spread is eaten with a slice of whole meal bread the snack packs in 6 to 8 grams of fibre.
Protein: Peanut butter contains approximately 7 grams of protein per sandwich. Which is low compared to eating meat or chicken, but if you add a glass of milk to your snack you could raise your protein intake to 28 grams.
Lowers weight gain: Studies in Spain which involved over 8,000 subjects concluded that participants who ate the spread at least twice a week were 31% less likely to gain weight.
