Who Knew Peanut Butter Was So Healthy?
By Sandy Schroeder
In an age of health-conscious products, nut butters seem to be everywhere. But nutritionists tell us we don’t have to spring for the more expensive ones to get a high protein, healthy oil nut spread that’s totally versatile and packed with healthy benefits. If you and your family are not allergic to peanuts check this list of benefits.
Cancer Fighter – Research says peanut butter may reduce colon cancer in women.
Diet Assistant – Peanut butter and peanuts manage hunger to maintain or lose weight.
Heart Booster – Researchers say peanuts lower the risk of cardiovascular and coronary heart disease.
Healthy Fat Choice – Peanut butter contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fat to reduce belly fat.
Memory Guard – Peanut butter is high in niacin, which helps protect memory and fight Alzheimer’s.
Nutrient Magnet – Nutritionists say peanut butter has protein and potassium to cut heart disease and stroke risk, lower blood pressure. Peanut butter also has magnesium, Vitamin E, antioxidants and fiber to help the bowel, bones and muscles.
Diabetes and Gallstone Fighters –Researchers say eating peanuts lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes and gallstones.
When you buy peanut butter, check the ingredients and make sure it’s just peanuts, minus all of the additives. Epicurious.com offers some tempting recipes. Here’s one that's a little rich, but it is no-bake, includes healthy oats, and has been taste-tested delicious. (You may want to substitute a lower fat margarine and milk.)
Ingredients
Stick of butter, or margarine
Half cup whole milk, or lower fat milk
Two to three tablespoons of cocoa powder (could be dark chocolate)
One cup white sugar
One cup creamy, not chunky, peanut butter
3 cups quick cooking oats
Two ounces bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate chips
Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Quarter teaspoon salt
Quarter teaspoon salt
Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat. Add milk, cocoa powder and sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring continuously for one minute. Remove from heat, add peanut butter, vanilla extract and salt. Then stir in chocolate chips and oats. Scoop tablespoon sized dollups onto wax paper and chill in the fridge for half an hour. When you come back, if they are still there, enjoy!
As I checked all of the health benefits, I made a note to keep peanut butter on my kitchen staples list. I will continue looking for more new recipes, and then try googling Epicurious for peanuts for a whole new layer of interesting recipes.