Peanut; A Complete Meal
Many products are made from peanut, this magical nut, such as peanut oil, flour and peanut protein. Peanut products are used in a variety of foods, desserts, cakes, pastries, snacks and sauces. Peanut and its products are high in fat (unsaturated and polyunsaturated fats) and are classified as oilseeds, which is why most of the world’s cultivated peanuts are used to make vegetable oil. Furthermore, peanut is high in antioxidant and bioactive compounds, oleic acid (40-60%) and linoleic acid.
Peanut contains considerable amount of protein. Peanut protein has 22-30% of calories, which is why it is considered one of the richest sources of plant protein. It is worth mentioning that the protein in peanut can endanger the health of some people by causing allergies.
Peanut is a rich source of a variety of vitamins and minerals including the following:
• Biotin: Peanut is a rich source of biotin, which is very important in nutrition during pregnancy. This vitamin is also one of the vitamins that reduce stress and social anxiety.
• Copper: This metal is one of the minerals the body needs. Copper deficiency may have side effects on heart health.
• Niacin or Vitamin B3: It has very important functions in the body and is directly related to reducing the risk of heart disease.
• Folic acid or vitamin B9: It plays a very important role in body functions and is one of the vitamins needed during pregnancy.
• Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant found in most high-fat nuts especially peanut.
• Thiamine: It belongs to the family of vitamin B and is known as vitamin B1. This vitamin helps the body’s cells convert carbohydrates into energy and is vital for the functioning of the heart, muscles and nervous system.
• Phosphorus: Peanut is rich in phosphorus and play an important role in the growth and maintenance of body tissues.
No comment