Groundnuts, also known as peanuts, are not just your boredom beating snacks on a lazy evening. According to historians, these oval-shaped legumes popularly known as Monkey nuts in various parts of the world were the first few domesticated grain legumes by mankind.
High in oil, groundnuts have always been a staple in Indian kitchens in the form of oil, legumes and are a must-have in daily cuisine. Even today, not many can imagine their breakfast menu without groundnut chutney as an accompaniment to their piping hot dosas or idlis and for the children, peanut butter smeared on their bread and roti is that quintessential dish.
But wait? Aren’t groundnuts high on cholesterol? Not true. There is absolutely zero amount of cholesterol in peanuts. What about fats? Yes! Groundnuts are loaded with fats – only good fats – Monounsaturated and Polyunsaturated ones. In fact, more than 80% of these fats are heart-healthy fats that are often found in avocados and olive oil.
So, should you include groundnuts in your daily diet? Absolutely! And if you are wondering why here are the reasons.
Regulates Diabetes:
A fistful of groundnuts is all you need to prevent sudden spikes in the levels of blood glucose. Manganese, an essential mineral that ensures smooth functioning of several bodily functions is around 21% in these legumes and its high concentration levels ensure good absorption of calcium levels besides controlling blood sugars.
Aids In Weight Loss:
If you are on a weight loss journey, always keep groundnuts handy to kill those midday hunger pangs. A good combination of protein, fat and fibre, these legumes keep you satiated for a long time, kick energy levels up, trigger metabolic activity. Besides fried groundnut, you can also relish peanut chikki.
Glow From Within:
Do you know that groundnuts are a rich source of vitamin E and C, two crucial components that provide your skin with a natural glow? And these tiny legumes are also a powerhouse of monounsaturated fat resveratrol that prevent excess production of sebum and prevent acne, pimples. Eat groundnuts daily to delay those signs of ageing.
Sharpens Memory:
Groundnuts are loaded with nutrients like niacin, protein, healthy fatty acids and Vitamin E that play a crucial role in improving cognitive function of the brain. These nuts aid in preventing degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and dementia, so as you age, don’t forget to consume peanuts.
Triggers Growth:
If you are worried about your child’s unhealthy snacking, it’s time to introduce healthy groundnuts. Peanut butter is the best option that goes very well with rotis, breads and make it a point to eat groundnut chikki daily for building muscles, strengthening bones, aid in digestion and stimulate metabolism.
