Are Peanuts A Healthy Food?

Peanuts are among the most common nuts included in many diets. Dry-roasted peanuts are a healthy addition to your diet because they contain a wealth of essential vitamins and minerals in each serving, according to "The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods." Peanuts have been part of the human diet for centuries, originating in South America and Africa as part of the culture. Peanuts arrived in America several hundred years ago and the average adult consumes about 12 lbs. of peanuts each year.

Help Protect the Heart

Cardiovascular disease is among the most common illnesses among adults, and taking steps to protect your heart can reduce your risk of suffering from this life-threatening condition. According to "The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods," peanuts play an important role in the health of your heart. Eating peanuts on a regular basis may keep your blood vessels strong so blood can flow through more efficiently. Consuming peanuts and peanut butter every day may reduce your risk by up to 21 percent, according to the book. Peanuts may also help lower your blood cholesterol as well.

Contain Dietary Fiber

Many adults do not get enough fiber in their diets, and the Cleveland Clinic notes that eating plant foods is one way to increase your intake. Adding peanuts to your diet can help you increase how much fiber you consume each day. A 1-oz. serving of dry-roasted peanuts supplies about 2 g of fiber. The clinic also notes that fiber may help reduce your risk of certain types of cancer, particularly cancers that occur in your digestive tract, colon and intestines. A diet high in fiber may help lower your cholesterol and help regulate your blood sugar.

Supply Essential Vitamins

Peanuts are a nutritious addition to your diet because they contain several vitamins you need on a daily basis. One of the most prevalent vitamins in peanuts is vitamin E, and a 1-oz. serving supplies you with 10 percent of the amount you need to consume each day. Peanuts also contain 10 percent of your daily needs for folic acid. A serving will also supply 20 percent of your daily requirement for niacin. Peanuts also supply small amounts of other B vitamins, including thiamin and riboflavin.

Provide Necessary Minerals

A 1-oz. serving of dry-roasted peanuts supplies you with 10 percent of the magnesium you need every day. A serving also supplies 10 percent of the phosphorus you need on a daily basis. Peanuts also contain a healthy dose of potassium, iron, zinc and selenium.