Peanuts, popularly known as groundnuts, monkey nuts, pig nuts, etc belong to the Fabaceae (bean) family. Peanuts, Arachis hypogaea is a legume species, and native to South America, Mexico and Central America.
An annual herbaceous plant, that grows almost to ground level, with very slender stems, leaves that are opposite and pinnate with four leaflets, flowers that are pea-shaped, and fruits (legumes) that are basically seeds that sprout and mature underground. Presently, its cultivated world over in climates that are favorable for its growth; long warm periods and plenty of rain.
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As the stalks grow, they start to droop to the ground. When the pods begin to form, they slowly force their way underground, ultimately maturing under the soil, forcing the farmer to dig the netted, tan colored pods up. It is possible that peanuts developed this growth habit as a method of protection from hot tropical sun, since they have thin pods. Once the peanut pods are harvested, the plant is removed, and typically used for animal fodder.
Peanuts Health Benefits
The shell or pod of the peanuts contains two, rarely three kernels in individual case like pods. The nuts are egg shaped, and the size depends upon the type of cultivar. Although each peanut is small in size, do not get fooled by its appearance, as you read further down, you will see why.
Heart Healthy Fats
Peanuts contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that keep the heart healthy. A good level, of both; monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats results in lowering blood cholesterol levels, and thereby reducing the risk of coronary heart diseases.
Proteins
Protein is essential to the health of our cells. The cells in our body are constantly being replaced and repaired. To ensue that the new cells are healthy, and the damaged ones are repaired well, we need protein. Peanuts are an extremely high source of plant protein. It should be regularly incorporated in diet for children, vegetarians and protein deficient people.
Antioxidants
Peanuts contain high concentrations of the antioxidant polyphenols, primarily a compound called p-coumaric acid and oleic acid, that not only protect the heart but inhibit the growth of free radicals, keeping infection at bay.
Minerals
A rich source of minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, calcium, sodium, etc, so needed by our body to function well, is ensured by a regular consumption of peanuts. Adequate supply of these minerals ensure a healthy heart, and ensure minimized risk of mineral deficient diseases.
Vitamins
Vitamins are important for overall growth and development. Vitamins ensure vital health for cells and tissues, and for fighting infections, etc, that in return ensure smooth functioning of our organs.
Peanuts provide our body with essential vitamins, that also help in regulating metabolism, converting fat and carbohydrates into energy, and facilitating bone and tissue formation. A good source of folate, peanuts reduce the incidence of birth defects, and anemia related conditions.
The number of peanuts health benefits match the number of ways it can be consumed; shelled nuts can be eaten fresh, roasted, or boiled, salted peanuts are often sold in packets or cans, the peanut oil extracted from this legume is used as a cooking medium, and broken peanut is used to make candy bars, and yes, let’s not forget the creamy, crunchy peanut butter!
Importance Of Peanuts
1. Peanuts contain nutrients, minerals, anti oxidant and vitamins which are very good for health.
2. It has mono fatty saturated acids which reduces LDL or bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol.
3. Peanut has protein, fat and sugar. Peanut contains an equal amount of protein which you found from milk.
4. Peanut protein is similar to milk and its fat is similar to ghee. Eating peanuts fulfills the requirement of milk and almond.
5. According to the study, those who have higher level of triglycerides in their blood level they can use peanut. Their blood lipid level is reduced to 10.2% in the level of triglycerides.
6. Your body remains heated if you eat peanut in winter. It is very useful in cough and gives power to the lungs.
7. If you eat 50-100 grams peanut after your meal then you will get good health. It digests the food and increase the blood. You won’t get obesity.
8. You can use peanut in vegetables, pudding, and hotchpotch. Peanut contains oil that destroys the gout problem.
9. Roasted peanuts have beneficial nutrients. Peanut provides protein, calories and vitamin K, E and B.
10. Peanut enhances digestive power but it is harmful to warm nature individuals. Eating more peanuts increase bile so you have to be careful.
very knowledgeable
very informative