Groundnuts are some of the best sources of protein. They are also very beneficial when it comes to matters of health.
Although they are high in fat, it can be said to be the good kind of fat as it is monounsaturated fat.
Groundnuts, which are also known as peanuts or pignuts, contain magnesium, foliate, vitamin E, copper, and arginine. They are believed to lessen the risk of cardiovascular disease.
And according to recent studies, groundnut skins have an abundant amount of natural antioxidants and high content dietary fiber. This is with regard to the different types, be it light-roasted or dark-roasted.
Here are some of the mind-blowing health benefits of groundnuts:
1. They contain antioxidants
Groundnut skins are rich in phenolic compounds, which go to say that they are antioxidant rich. Antioxidants are substances that help protect the body from oxidative stress, which occurs in cases of various cancers and diseases.
They are powerful substances which prohibit (and in some cases even prevent) the oxidation of other molecules in the body.
According to a 2012 study from North Carolina University, published in the Journal of Food Science, it was reported that adding a 5 percent concentration of peanut (groundnut) skins to peanut butter significantly increased its antioxidant levels without sacrificing taste or texture.
2. Groundnuts contain heart-healthy fats
As earlier stated, groundnuts contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that keep the heart healthy.
And this is great news for the heart because a good level of both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats helps to lower blood cholesterol levels, as well as reducing the risk of coronary heart diseases.
3. They are high sources of protein
When it comes to the healthiness of our cells, protein is essential. And this is because the cells in our body are constantly being replaced and repaired and to ensure that the new cells are healthy, and the damaged ones repaired well, the need for protein cannot be overemphasized.
Groundnuts have been shown to be an extremely high source of plant protein and medical practitioners have advised that they should be incorporated in the diet for children, vegetarians, and protein-deficient people.
4. Groundnuts are a rich source of minerals
As stated in the introduction, groundnuts are a rich source of minerals. And some of these minerals include magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, calcium, sodium, etc.
Our body needs these minerals to function well. Adequate supply of these minerals ensures a healthy heart as well as minimises the risk of mineral deficient diseases.
5. They are rich in vitamins
It is a well-known fact that when it comes to overall growth and development, the importance of vitamins cannot be overemphasised.
Vitamins not only ensure vital health for cells and tissues, but also help in fighting infections, thereby ensuring the smooth functioning of our organs.
Groundnuts provide our body with essential vitamins which help in regulating metabolism, converting fat and carbohydrates into energy, and facilitating bone and tissue formation.
And being a rich source of foliate, studies have shown that they also reduce the incidence of birth defects and anaemia related conditions.
Credit: Pulse NG
