Are you a self-proclaimed peanut butter addict? Well, hold onto your spoons, because we’ve got some exciting news that might make you go nuts! Peanut butter isn’t just a delicious and creamy spread that pairs well with everything from toast to apples. It turns out that this tasty treat can actually be good for your heart health. Yes, you read that right – peanut butter might just be the key to a healthier ticker. And if you’re looking for a healthier and more nutritious peanut butter option, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll dive into the benefits of peanut butter for heart health and why Fitflow peanut butter is the perfect choice for your heart-healthy diet. So, grab a jar of your favourite nut butter and let’s get started!
The heart-healthy benefits of peanuts
Peanuts may be small, but they pack a powerful punch when it comes to heart health. These little legumes are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help lower harmful cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Not to mention, they’re also chock-full of fibre and protein, two nutrients that play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy heart.
So how exactly do these nutrients benefit your ticker? Let’s break it down. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are known as “good” fats because they can help reduce inflammation, improve blood vessel function, and lower the risk of heart disease. In fact, a study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that consuming peanuts and other nuts as part of a healthy diet can lower the risk of heart disease by up to 14%.
But that’s not all – peanuts are also a great source of fibre, which can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that consuming peanuts and peanut butter on a regular basis can help improve heart health by reducing inflammation and improving blood lipid profiles.
And let’s remember protein is essential for maintaining a healthy heart and body. Peanuts are a great source of plant-based protein, which can help lower the risk of heart disease by reducing inflammation and improving blood sugar control.
The drawbacks of traditional peanut butter
Traditional peanut butter, while delicious, comes with a few drawbacks that are worth discussing. Let’s dive into the issues with this beloved spread!
Firstly, let’s talk about salt. Traditional peanut butter contains a high salt level, which is added to enhance the flavour and increase shelf life. Unfortunately, consuming excessive amounts of salt can lead to high blood pressure, which in turn can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. So, next time you’re indulging in a peanut butter sandwich, keep an eye on your sodium intake.
Next up, let’s talk about sugar. Traditional peanut butter often contains added sugar, which can be detrimental to your health. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. When selecting a peanut butter, always read the label and opt for a brand that doesn’t contain added sugar.
Finally, let’s talk about hydrogenated oils. These are often added to traditional peanut butter to increase the spreadability and shelf life. However, hydrogenated oils contain trans fats, considered the worst fat for heart health. Trans fats can increase LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) and decrease HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol), which can lead to heart disease.
So, how can you enjoy peanut butter without all of these drawbacks? Opt for a natural peanut butter that doesn’t contain added salt, sugar, or hydrogenated oils. You can also make your own peanut butter by blending peanuts in a food processor until they reach the desired consistency. Not only will this be a healthier option, but it’s also a fun and creative way to customize your spread.