A study coming out of the University of Barcelona suggests that eating peanuts and peanut butter may benefit heart health in young, healthy individuals. The University conducted a six-month study involving 63 healthy individuals between the ages of 18-33 who included a single serving of peanuts or peanut butter in their daily diet. Researchers found antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in peanuts may lead to key changes in gut microbiota, in turn producing compounds that improve vascular biomarkers.
"The bottom-line finding is that peanuts can play an important role in promoting heart health by preventing atherosclerosis, reducing inflammation and improving vascular health," said Samara M. D., Research Director of The Peanut Institute.
According to news provided by The Peanut Institute, a recent study published in the journal Antioxidants suggests that incorporating peanuts and peanut butter into one's diet may have cardiovascular benefits for young, healthy individuals. This is noteworthy considering the increasing occurrence of heart disease, heart failure, and endocarditis among young adults, typically seen in older populations, The Peanut Institute said in the press release. The study advocates for a preventive medicine strategy targeting younger generations.
According to the news release, in a six-month study carried out by the University of Barcelona, 63 healthy young adults between the ages of 18-33 were asked to consume a single serving of peanuts or peanut butter as part of their daily diet. The study found that peanuts contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that could result in significant alterations to the gut microbiota, leading to the production of compounds that improve vascular biomarkers. Dr. Sterling remarked, "There's an urgent need to focus cardiovascular disease education and prevention efforts on young adults. The increases in high blood pressure and obesity are impacting the hearts of young people and leading to serious conditions that are usually seen in those who are decades older."
According to a study by the University of Barcelona, consuming a serving of peanuts, which costs around 15 cents, provides seven grams of plant-based protein, 19 vitamins and minerals, heart-healthy fats, and beneficial fiber. For those who prefer peanut butter, a daily serving of two tablespoons costs about 19 cents. The study found that peanuts are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may lead to beneficial changes in the gut microbiota, producing compounds that improve vascular biomarkers. "Optimal vascular health is essential for several functions, including cognition, memory, mental health, and sexual function," says Sterling. The study was led by Rosa M. Lamuela, a professor at the Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences of the University of Barcelona, with Isabella Parilli-Moser as the first author. Parilli-Moser adds that consuming nuts and peanuts has also been linked to a lower risk of developing diabetes due to the protective effect of polyphenols found in these foods.
