Are Peanuts Healthy?

They bring nutrients with them – but somehow also fat, right? So are peanuts healthy? We have summarized important information about the small nuts, which are actually not nuts at all, and reveal interesting facts about the nutrient content and recommended daily rations.

How healthy are peanuts?

The question of whether peanuts are healthy or not usually varies between their high nutrient content on the one hand and the considerable fat content and increased allergy potential on the other. In principle, therefore, it is the measure that counts. The German Society for Nutrition recommends around 25 g per day. Peanuts mainly contain unsaturated fatty acids. According to some studies, they should therefore have a positive effect on the heart and circulation. However, this has not been definitively proven. In any case, peanuts are a good source of protein and rich in magnesium, potassium, B vitamins, and vitamin E. Experts, therefore, attribute positive properties to peanuts in a vegan diet. Incidentally, peanuts are not said to have a positive effect on the liver.

Peanuts: healthy for losing weight?

Strictly speaking, peanuts are legumes rather than nuts. You can find out what distinguishes “real” nut types from “false” ones in our expert knowledge on the subject of nut types. By the way: According to some studies, peanuts should actually help to lose weight. In view of the increased fat content, this sounds rather surprising at first. However, their satiating effect and the insoluble dietary fibers found in them are said to be advantageous. These, in turn, should help prevent obesity. Peanuts are also said to help the body absorb fewer calories. However, this has not yet been definitively proven. If peanuts are to have a healthy effect, it is best to eat them unprocessed. That means: Ideally with the thin brown skin, which is said to be beneficial for digestion or which is said to have a digestive effect. Roasted and salted peanuts, on the other hand, are more for enjoyment. You have to be careful here: The recommended daily amount is quickly exceeded when the small nuts are cleverly seasoned and invite you to grab them.

Tip: You can also find more useful knowledge about nuts and great recipes for healthy snacks.