Seven Benefits of Eating Peanuts in the Winter Season: As winter sets in, many of us in India turn to the comforting warmth of peanuts. From elders to children, the humble peanut has been a staple winter snack for generations. But beyond its taste, peanuts offer a range of health benefits, especially in the colder months. Here’s why you should consider adding peanuts to your winter diet.
Packed with Healthy Fats for Winter Warmth
Winter brings cold winds and low temperatures, making it essential to consume foods that provide warmth and energy. Peanuts are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which help generate body heat. Nutritionist Shreya Gupta, Fortis Hospitalexplains, “Filled with healthy fats, peanuts serve as a dense energy source, keeping your body warm during chilly weather.”
Sustained Energy Boost
During the winter, many of us experience fatigue and a lack of energy, often due to shorter days and less sunlight. Peanuts, high in protein and healthy fats, provide a steady source of energy, helping you stay active throughout the day. The protein in peanuts makes them an ideal snack to combat winter sluggishness and maintain stamina.
Immune System Support with Vitamin E
As the temperature drops, we become more susceptible to colds, flu, and allergies. Peanuts are rich in vitamin E, which acts as a powerful antioxidant, strengthening the immune system. “Vitamin E in peanuts supports immune function, helping protect your body from seasonal illnesses,” says Gupta. Including peanuts in your winter diet can help fortify your body’s defences during the cold season.
Promotes Healthy Skin
Dry, flaky skin is a common winter concern. Thankfully, peanuts can help combat this. They are a great source of biotin, a vitamin that promotes skin health. By including peanuts in your diet, you can nourish your skin from within and fight off dryness, ensuring a healthy, glowing complexion even in the harsh winter months.
Don’t Miss:7 Surprising Health Benefits Of Jaggery
Bone Health with Key Minerals
Peanuts are packed with essential minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, which are important for maintaining strong bones. As the cold weather makes us less active, it’s crucial to ensure our bones remain healthy and resilient. Gupta highlights, “These minerals contribute to bone health, making peanuts an excellent addition to your winter nutrition.”
Mood-Enhancing Benefits
Winter can sometimes bring feelings of sluggishness and the winter blues. Peanuts are a natural source of tryptophan, an amino acid that helps in the production of serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone. Gupta notes, “Tryptophan found in peanuts can boost serotonin levels, potentially lifting your mood during the winter months.”
Helps Regulate Blood Sugar
Peanuts have a low glycaemic index, which means they release sugar into the bloodstream gradually, helping to stabilise blood sugar levels. This makes them an excellent snack for those managing diabetes or looking to maintain balanced energy levels throughout the day. Incorporating peanuts into your winter diet can assist in controlling blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of energy crashes.
So, the next time you reach for a warm snack, grab a handful of peanuts and enjoy the health benefits they bring to your winter routine.
Don’t Miss:The 5-20-30 Weight Loss Method: What Is It, Effectiveness, As Per Experts
Keep reading Herzindagi for more such stories.
Image Courtesy: Freepik