Peanuts are always a hit in bars, baseball games, parties, as regular snacks and in peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. They are not actually a member of the nuts family – instead, they are considered as tasty legumes.
Aside from being deliciously flavored, peanuts are also considered to be a health food. They are an excellent source of manganese, trytophan, vitamin B3, folate copper and protein. This nutritional content is especially good for the heart, with the addition of monounsaturated fats which help decrease the incidence of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
Peanuts also have antioxidants which help boost the immune system. Finally, peanuts help reduce the risks of colon cancer, gallstones, age-related cognitive disease and serves as a protection against Alzheimer’s disease.
These nuts can be enjoyed salted, unsalted, raw, roasted, shelled or unshelled. I especially love peanuts in it most popular form – as creamy peanut butter spread served with jelly in sandwiches!