Peanuts might just be one of the best inventions on God’s green earth. What has made this simple nut have such staying power across so many cultures? For some it would be the delicious taste, perfect in a wide variety of recipes ranging from five-star cuisine to party snacks. For others it’s the health benefits that carry them through a rough week. The benefits of eating peanuts, simply put, cannot be beat. If you want to learn some interesting facts about peanut butter or perhaps become better acquainted with the nutritional value of a peanut, you’ve come to the right list.
Let’s learn why peanuts have a permanent spot in our hearts, both physical and metaphorical.
Did You Know?
Who helped pioneer the peanut industry in the United States? None other than Dr. George Washington Carver. Also known as the ‘peanut wizard’, this man discovered over 300 uses for the peanut plant all the way back in the 1900’s. While he is often credited for creating peanut butter, the truth is a little different and much more interesting. His lab created all sorts of products over his lifetime, from peanut oil for physical therapy to hair dressing.
Peanut Consumption In The United States
Americans love peanuts. It’s estimated peanuts comprise over 65% of all nut consumption in the country, which is impressive when you consider how popular almonds and cashews are. Americans will consume over 700 million pounds of peanut butter annually. While apple pie and hamburgers are commonly associated with typical American cuisine, a peanut butter and jelly sandwich is still a go-to for children and adults alike. It is required by law that peanut butter be composed of 90% peanuts.
Peanuts Around The World
What about peanut consumption around the world? Peanut calories in organic peanut oil and peanut protein powder are thankfully easy to judge, because this nut is everywhere. Thailand is known for its delicious, rich and complex cultural cuisine. A common element used in many a Thai dish is peanut oil for its strong flavor and buttery finish. Many Latin American dishes (particularly in Peru) use ground peanuts as an addition to many casual and high-end dishes. Peanuts can be boiled, roasted, ground up, strained and even turned into flour.
Nutritional Value Of A Peanut
We all know peanuts are incredibly tasty. They have a salty, nutty flavor that can be enjoyed solo or in all sorts of dishes. But peanut calories and their overall health value has made it clear they can be appreciated on a deeper level…literally. A mere ounce of raw peanuts contains over seven grams of protein as well as two grams of dietary fiber. This means nuts can give you the strength you need to get through the day while encouraging a healthy digestive system.
Flexibility In Many Different Diets
Low peanut calories make peanuts a simple snack on-the-go. What about alternate diets? Peanut flour can provide up to 50% protein on top of gluten-free and vegan benefits. With more Americans becoming better tuned into what their unique diet requires for them to lead a healthy life, this knowledge is incredibly useful medically and socially. The four different types of peanuts produced in the United States are called Virginia, Runner, Spanish and Valencia.
The Daily Life Of A Peanut Enthusiast
Why should you be adding more peanuts into your daily diet? There are more reasons than you can shake a stick at. Peanut calories are low and easy-to-manage, ideal for a diet that require you cut back while still giving you the nutrition you need. Peanuts provide up to 15% of the Reference Daily Intake (also known as RDI) level of protein. They can be put into salads, stir fry or a basic sandwich. All in all, they’re a fantastic staple of nearly any person’s diet and are easy to obtain.
Good cholesterol, low calories and a great taste. What’s not to like?