Peanuts: A Heart Healthy Superfood

Source: The Peanut Institute

Recent research published in the American Heart Association’s journal, Circulation, has indicated that consumption of the necessary vitamins and minerals found in peanuts not only reduces risk of heart disease and cardiovascular events but also promotes overall health.

One of the key players in heart health is the essential Omega-6 fat found in peanuts– linoleic acid. Consumption of linoleic acid has been associated with a 22% reduced risk of death by cardiovascular disease and a 12% reduced risk of stroke. In addition, peanut/linoleic acid consumption keeps blood vessels healthy and reduces high blood pressure and cholesterol.

As a result, peanuts have been labeled a ‘superfood’ of sorts, as they deliver substantial amounts of vitamins and minerals in each serving, which is defined as only 1 ounce of peanuts or 2 tablespoons of peanut butter– a very small amount to pack such a large nutrient-punch.