Peanuts, an oil crop that spread from China to the rest of the world, are one of the essential ingredients in the human diet. Peanuts not only have a unique flavor, but also are extremely rich in nutritional value, containing a variety of nutrients needed by the human body, such as protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Therefore, peanuts are also known as "longevity fruits", especially suitable for middle-aged and elderly people.
1. The nutritional value of peanuts
(1) Rich in protein
Peanuts are rich in plant protein, with 20-30 grams of protein per 100 grams of peanut kernels. The composition of sulfur-containing amino acids in these proteins is very similar to that of animal proteins, and the nutritional value is high. In addition, the utilization rate of peanut protein is also very high, reaching about 71%, so peanut kernels are recognized as one of the good sources of plant protein.
(2) High content of unsaturated fatty acids
The content of unsaturated fatty acids in peanut oil is as high as more than 80%, mainly oleic acid and linoleic acid. These unsaturated fatty acids help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, prevent arteriosclerosis, and protect cardiovascular health. Peanut oil is also a great source of arachidonic acid, which is necessary for brain and retinal development.
(3) Rich in vitamins
Peanut kernels contain significantly more vitamin E than other nuts. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that effectively removes free radicals in the human body, delays cellular aging, and protects the health of the nervous system and cardiovascular system. Vitamins also have a beauty and skin care effect, which can resist wrinkles and make the skin fair and elastic.
(4) Calcium, magnesium, zinc and other minerals are abundant
Peanuts contain calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron and other essential trace elements. Among them, calcium enhances the density of bones and teeth, magnesium stabilizes nerves, and zinc is important for children's growth and development. The supplementation of these minerals can prevent the occurrence of trace element deficiencies such as calcium deficiency, magnesium deficiency, and zinc deficiency.
Second, the health benefits of peanuts
(1) The anti-cancer effect is obvious
Peanuts contain a variety of anti-cancer ingredients such as flavonoids. These ingredients can inhibit the growth and reproduction of cancer cells, induce apoptosis of cancer cells, and thus exert anti-cancer effects. Among those who eat peanuts, the incidence of all types of cancer is much lower than that of those who do not eat peanuts. Therefore, adding peanut products to the diet in moderation can reduce the probability of cancer.
(2) Reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease
The unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E in peanut oil can help reduce cholesterol levels, inhibit platelet aggregation, and protect blood vessel elasticity, thereby greatly reducing the incidence of cardiovascular disease. Middle-aged and elderly people who regularly eat peanuts are much less likely to suffer from heart disease and stroke.
(3) Control blood sugar and prevent diabetes
Ingredients such as letephylline in peanuts mimic the action of insulin and help the body make better use of glucose. In addition, peanuts are also high in dietary fiber, which slows down the release and absorption of blood sugar. Therefore, moderate consumption of peanut products can reduce blood sugar levels and control the occurrence of diabetes. This is significant for middle-aged and elderly people with diabetes.
(4) Enhance memory
Peanuts are rich in zinc, which promotes the synthesis of neurotransmitters in the brain and enhances the function of the nervous system. In addition, the lettilphylline component in peanuts also stimulates the activity of the cerebral cortex, thereby improving concentration and memory. Therefore, regular consumption of peanuts can reduce the probability of Alzheimer's disease and enhance the memory of middle-aged and elderly people.
3. Peanut common sense
(1) How to store fresh peanuts
Many people like to grow some peanuts in their yards, and fresh peanuts are picked and want to preserve them for a period of time before eating, so they need to pay attention to the preservation method. In general, it is best to choose mature peanuts that are fully developed and have a brown shell and green skin for harvesting. After picking, spread out and dry in a cool, ventilated place to reduce the moisture content to about 10%, and then put it into a net bag to seal and preserve, so that the peanuts can be stored for about half a year.
(2) Tips for flowering
Many people are always worried about choking when eating peanuts, especially middle-aged and elderly people. In fact, if you master a few small skills, the process of flowering and growing will be much easier. The most important thing is to choose fully developed, large peanuts. It is best to soak for a while before flowering and then cut horizontally with pliers or a knife. You can also put the peanuts between the two bricks to squeeze the shell, saving the hands of the cutting hands. Either way, be sure to check for mildew after cutting or squeezing it open. Finally, take out the peanut kernels, taking care not to break them, so that the whole peanut kernels can be easily opened.
(3) Symptoms of peanut allergy
Although peanuts are delicious and nutritious, a small number of people are allergic to peanuts. Peanut allergies usually come in mild, moderate, and severe severity. People with mild allergies have mild symptoms and are mainly characterized by itching around the mouth and anus. People with moderate allergies may experience symptoms such as rash and diarrhea. The symptoms of severe allergies are the most severe, and there may be difficulty breathing, wheezing, loss of voice, etc., which are life-threatening. As soon as any uncomfortable symptoms appear, it is best to stop eating peanut products immediately and seek medical attention in time.
Fourth, peanuts are most suitable for middle-aged and elderly people
Peanuts are rich in nutrients and have remarkable effects, making them the most suitable for middle-aged and elderly people. As we age, the body's demand for nutrients also increases, and the protein, fat, vitamins, minerals and other components in peanuts can well meet these needs. In addition, peanuts also have the effect of lowering blood pressure, blood sugar, anti-cancer, etc., which can slow down the occurrence of common diseases in middle-aged and elderly people and delay the aging process. Finally, nutrients such as magnesium and zinc in peanuts can also enhance memory and prevent dementia, which is especially important for improving the quality of life of the elderly.
Therefore, it is recommended that middle-aged and elderly people eat peanuts and peanut products appropriately. 50-100 grams of peanut kernels per day, or a little peanut butter and peanut oil, can provide rich nutrients for the body, enhance physical fitness, and prolong life. Of course, it is best not to overdo it, it is best to control it within 300 grams of peanuts per week to avoid consuming too much fat and causing obesity. It is hoped that middle-aged and elderly people will eat more of this natural "longevity fruit" to enjoy the delicious taste and make the body healthier.