Peanuts, known as the "longevity fruit", are a very common food in our daily lives. It is not only delicious and nutritious, but also has health care functions such as lowering cholesterol and preventing cardiovascular diseases. However, recent claims that peanuts may accelerate the metastasis of cancer cells have attracted widespread attention. So, is this statement scientific? This article will conduct an in-depth study from the aspects of the nutritional value of peanuts, the relationship between peanuts and cancer, and the suitable edible population, so as to help everyone correctly understand peanuts and eat peanuts scientifically.
1. The nutritional value of peanuts
Peanuts are rich in many nutrients such as protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Among them, unsaturated fatty acids are of great significance to human health, which can reduce blood cholesterol content and prevent cardiovascular diseases. In addition, peanuts are also rich in dietary fiber, which helps to promote intestinal peristalsis and prevent constipation.
2. The relationship between peanuts and cancer
There is no conclusive scientific evidence that peanuts may accelerate the metastasis of cancer cells. In fact, eating peanuts in moderation has a certain positive effect on the prevention of cancer. The antioxidants in peanuts can scavenge free radicals in the body and reduce cell damage, thereby reducing the risk of cancer. However, excessive consumption of peanuts may lead to excessive energy intake and increase the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes, which are associated with the occurrence and progression of cancer. Therefore, we should maintain the habit of consuming peanuts in moderation.
3. People who are suitable for eating peanuts
Although peanuts are rich in nutritional value, they are not suitable for everyone. The following groups of people need to be cautious when consuming peanuts:
1. People with allergies: Some people are allergic to peanuts, and they may have allergic reactions such as itching, redness, swelling, and difficulty breathing after eating. Such people should avoid eating peanuts and their products.
2. Patients with digestive system diseases: Peanuts are high in fat and protein, and eating too much may increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as indigestion and bloating. Patients with digestive diseases such as gastritis and gastric ulcers should reduce their intake of peanuts in moderation.
3. Obese and diabetic patients: Although peanuts are rich in unsaturated fatty acids, they are also relatively high in calories. Excessive consumption may lead to excessive energy intake, which is not conducive to blood sugar control in obese and diabetic patients. Therefore, this group of people should pay attention to controlling their intake when eating peanuts.
4. Those with high blood viscosity: Peanuts have a certain anticoagulant effect, and moderate consumption can help reduce blood viscosity and prevent thrombosis. However, for people who already have high blood viscosity, excessive consumption of peanuts may aggravate blood viscosity and be detrimental to physical health. Therefore, this group of people should follow the doctor's advice when eating peanuts and have a reasonable diet.
5. People who need to control their dietary fat intake: Although the fats in peanuts are mainly unsaturated fatty acids, which are beneficial to human health, they are still fatty foods. For people who need to control their dietary fat intake (such as hyperlipidemia patients, fatty liver patients, etc.), they should pay attention to controlling their intake when eating peanuts to avoid affecting their condition.
Fourth, how to eat peanuts scientifically
1. Moderate consumption: It is recommended to control the amount of peanuts consumed every day between 15-25 grams, which is equivalent to a small handful. Avoid excessive consumption that can lead to excessive energy intake.
2. Diversified consumption: peanuts can be eaten with other nuts, fruits and other foods to achieve complementary nutrition and rich taste.
3. Pay attention to cooking methods: try to choose low-oil cooking methods such as boiling and steaming, and avoid high-oil and high-salt cooking methods such as frying and salt baking to reduce the intake of unhealthy fats and salt.
4. Pay attention to allergic reactions: When eating peanuts for the first time, you should pay attention to whether you have allergic reactions. If you have allergic symptoms, stop consuming it immediately and seek medical treatment.
In conclusion, peanuts are a nutritious food that is good for health when consumed in moderation. However, peanuts are not suitable for all populations. We should eat peanuts scientifically and reasonably according to our physical condition and needs, and enjoy the deliciousness and health it brings.