Is It OK to Eat Peanut Butter Every Day? 4 Health Benefits (2024)

FAQs

Is It OK to Eat Peanut Butter Every Day? 4 Health Benefits? ›

Eating peanut butter in moderation provides you with wholesome nutrients. However, eating too much can make you gain weight because it is packed with calories and fats. The risk of weight gain increases even more if you consume commercial peanut butter brands, which often have added sugars, oils, and fats.

Peanut butter is not only a good source of plant-based protein and healthy fats, but eating peanut butter is also associated with a potential lower risk of heart disease, improved blood sugar control and weight-management support.

"I recommend opting for one that say 'natural' on it, which usually means it's just peanuts with a dash of salt," Rizzo adds. When peanut butter does contain added salt, Largeman-Roth recommends choosing a brand with less than 100 milligrams of sodium per serving.

Peanut butter is a source of healthy fats. A serving of 2 tbsp has 8.29 g of monounsaturated fats and 4 g of polyunsaturated fats. 2 These fats help support a healthy heart. 4 However, some peanut butters include palm oil, which can increase saturated fat.

Research shows that people who regularly eat nuts and nut butter, including peanut butter, are less likely to develop heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Plus, peanut butter is so versatile — what other food transitions seamlessly from breakfast to lunch to dinner to snack and dessert?

While most of the fat in peanut butter is relatively healthy, peanuts also contain some saturated fat, which can lead to heart problems when consumed in excess over time. Peanuts are high in phosphorus, which can limit your body's absorption of other minerals like zinc and iron.

Benefits of eating peanut butter before bed

Rich in nutrients, vitamins, and heart-healthy fats, peanut butter contains tryptophan, which aids in relaxation and sleep induction. Other nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews also support healthy sleep due to their melatonin, magnesium, and zinc content.

Jif and Skippy peanut butter can both fit into a balanced diet. Like other brands, these peanut butters are a good source of protein, fat, and fiber. However, when possible, it’s best to opt for peanut butter varieties that contain fewer ingredients and are free of added sugar.

Fortunately for everyone who loves peanut butter, almond butter, and other nut butters, these creamy treats are fairly healthy. And as long as they don't contain hydrogenated fat, nut butters — including peanut butter — won't cause problems for your cholesterol levels.

Peanut butter has higher saturated fats, which should be taken in moderation. Almond butter, on the contrary, has more monounsaturated fats that are thought to be heart-healthy and can contribute to lowering harmful cholesterol levels. These fats are high in energy and help in the digestion of fat-soluble vitamins.

Who should avoid peanut butter? ›

Those with a known peanut allergy should avoid peanut butter and foods containing the nuts. The NIH also note that just 20 percent of those with an allergy will eventually outgrow the allergy and stop having reactions to nuts.

Due to its high content of antioxidants and vitamins, peanut butter can improve antioxidant activity in the liver and promote its health. Peanut butter is a balanced source of protein that serves especially important to liver patients, as they have many dietary restrictions.

"Eating too much peanut butter in a short time frame can cause people to become more constipated or have stomach aches due to the high amount of fat in a short time frame," Alicia Galvin, RD said. "Fat takes longer to digest and absorb, and peanut butter is mostly fat, so having too much can tax the digestive system."

Eating peanut butter in moderation provides you with wholesome nutrients. However, eating too much can make you gain weight because it is packed with calories and fats. The risk of weight gain increases even more if you consume commercial peanut butter brands, which often have added sugars, oils, and fats.

You can also add this spread to fruit smoothies, oatmeal, muffins, and other dishes for a tasty boost of healthy fats and protein. To avoid exceeding your daily calorie needs, be mindful of portion sizes. For most people, this means sticking to 1–2 tablespoons (16–32 grams) per day.

How Peanut Butter Can Benefit Hair Health. This humble pantry staple can do wonders for promoting hair growth, preventing hair loss, and conditioning your strands. Peanut butter is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin B6, biotin, magnesium, and zinc – all essential nutrients for healthy hair growth ...

Peanut butter is packed with nutrients and compounds that are beneficial for gut health, including: Fiber: Peanut butter is a good source of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive regularity and overall gut health. Fiber also helps to keep you feeling fuller for longer, which can aid in weight management.