The Peanut Institute, a non-profit organization based in Albany, Ga., supports nutrition research and educational programs to encourage healthful lifestyles that include peanuts and peanut products. The goal is to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent sugar spikes that can damage blood vessels and lead to kidney and vision complications. Low glycemic foods, such as peanuts, have been shown to have a positive impact on diabetes prevention. A recent study in Diabetes Care found that following the plant-predominant Portfolio diet, which includes peanuts and peanut butter, is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes in older women. In 2019, the Journal of American Nutrition published research that showed when peanut butter was added to a high glycemic index meal, the spike in blood glucose was significantly lower than without the peanut butter. This effect may be due, in part, to the high protein and healthy fat content of peanut butter.
A handful of peanuts or two tablespoons of peanut butter delivers approximately seven grams of plant-based protein, more than any other nut. A serving of peanuts also contains 19 vitamins and minerals, fiber, and ‘good-for-you’ monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. A 2014 study found that daily consumption of peanuts enriched the American Diabetes Association meal plan and improved the intake of heart-healthy fats, vitamin E, niacin, and magnesium among participants.
The Peanut Institute has assembled a collection of low-sugar recipes that cover any eating occasion, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, and snacks. The organization works with all segments of the food industry, the research community, academia, consumer organizations, and governmental institutions to promote healthy lifestyles.
The Peanut Institute shares research updates, recipes and meal ideas on PeanutInstitute.com, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and Pinterest.
