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Day 15 - Peanuts
Peanuts, contrary to their name, are not really nuts. They are a
member of the legume family along with peas, lentils, chickpeas and
other beans. Peanuts start growing as a ground flower - but because the
peanut flower is very heavy - it bends towards the ground and
eventually pushes it's way underground where the peanut matures.
A University of Florida team says peanuts are rich in antioxidants
which protect cells from damage linked to heart disease and cancer.
Peanuts also contain high levels of protein and "good" monounsaturated
fat.
The US researchers tested the antioxidant content of a dozen different
varieties of peanuts. Antioxidants are the naturally occurring
substances in plants that protect the body from free radicals -
'volatile' chemicals in the blood.
Although free radicals do play an important role in the immune system,
they also alter cholesterol in a process known as oxidation, which is
thought to speed up the hardening of the arteries.
Red and orange fruits and vegetables are already known to be
particularly high in antioxidants. But the researchers found peanuts
were also high in the beneficial chemicals. They found peanuts contain
high levels of polyphenols, a family of chemicals commonly found in
foods, which have strong antioxidant properties.
Steve Talcott of the University of Florida, who led the research, said:
"When it comes to antioxidant content, peanuts are right up there with
strawberries. We expected a fairly high antioxidant content in peanuts,
but we were a bit shocked to find that they're as rich in antioxidants
as many kinds of fruit."
If you're a peanut fan we encourage you to consider Buckey Ball Matrix.
This delicious energy food is handcrafted from peanuts, honey, white
and black sesame seeds, dried whole raspberries, organic raspberry
tarts, and olive oil. It's a taste that's sure to please and always a
hit with the kids.
Visit The Wholefood Farmacy
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