Did you know that peanut butter can be a great tool for athletes and those with an active lifestyle? The nutritional benefits of peanut butter not only help athletic performance but also improve heart health, blood sugar levels, and cognitive functions. Below are some of the best health benefits of peanut butter, and why you should add it to your diet today.
1. Performance Booster
Starting our list of benefits of peanut butter is it can be used as a performance booster. Since peanut butter is nutrient-rich, it can improve your athletic performance. When eaten in moderation with other healthy foods like vegetables and protein, peanut butter gives your body essential fats. These can aid in reducing inflammation, which is a common problem for dedicated athletes who suffer micro-injuries during training or sporting events.
2. Heart Health Support
Second on our list of health benefits of peanut butter is its correlation to heart health. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are found in peanut butter, which contribute to heart-healthy fats and help lower inflammation. This is perfect for those who lead active lifestyles, as it can promote overall cardiovascular health, so you can enjoy being active for longer.
3. Blood Sugar Stabilization
Next on our list of benefits of peanut butter is that it can help regulate blood sugar levels. This is because peanut butter creates a “second meal effect,” which stabilizes your energy levels and reduces cravings in the future. This is perfect for athletes who are prioritizing endurance in their training, or individuals managing diabetes while working out and training.
4. Cognitive Function Enhancement
Fourth on our list of benefits of peanut butter is that it can improve cognitive functions. This is due, in part, to peanut butter containing arginine. The amino acid helps brain function by improving blood flow, and can also help with repairing tissues. If you add peanut butter to your regular diet, the added arginine can turn into faster processing speeds and improved short-term memory. It’s a great way to stay focused throughout the workout.
5. High-Quality Protein Source
Next on our list of benefits of peanut butter is its protein content. Every two tablespoons of peanut butter provides you with around eight grams of protein. It’s a quick and easy way to get a protein boost, no matter the time of day, and energize your training. Protein also helps with muscle repair and growth, especially after an intense workout. This way, you can enjoy longer energy spurts and more muscle mass.
6. Gut Health and Immune Support
Sixth on our list of benefits of peanut butter is how it helps with gut health and immune support. Peanuts provide a healthy amount of bioactive compounds, like antioxidants and fiber. Combined, they can create a healthy gut microbiome and protect your immune system from future illnesses. It also helps to choose peanuts because they have a low risk of pesticide residue, making your meals safer and healthier.
7. Convenient Nutrient-Dense Option
Last but not least on our list of benefits of peanut butter is that it’s a convenient and nutrient-dense option. Finding the right food and drink combination to properly fuel athletes throughout the day and workouts can be difficult. However, peanut butter is here to help. The nutrient density is a perfect choice for athletes, as it curbs cravings, boosts energy, and prevents bingeing later in the day. Those who are on a strict diet plan will want to add peanut butter to their plate to stick to their food goals.
Final Thoughts
Peanut butter is a great option for athletes. Its versatility and nutrients are a perfect combination that supports heart health, weight management, blood sugar levels, cognitive function, and immunity. Plus, you can increase your benefits by choosing a natural or minimally processed brand of peanut butter. So, the next time you create a meal plan or need an extra boost of energy before a workout, try adding a couple of spoonfuls of peanut butter.