Researchers point out some of the possible reasons why peanuts might actually help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease without weight gain. These are some interesting facts. However, the authors fail to appreciate several important points about peanuts.
- They are loaded with omega-6 fats that distort the omega 3:6 ratio
- They are frequently contaminated with mold aflatoxin
- Peanuts are one of the most pesticide-contaminated crops
Fortunately, there is a relatively safe work around. You can obtain Arrowhead Mills organic peanut butter. These peanuts are grown in New Mexico and afflatoxin has not been reported to be a problem in that state due to the dry conditions. The organic version of the peanut butter is also pesticide free.
You can also pour off the oil that settles to the top of the peanut butter jar rather than stirring it in the peanut butter as this will lower the omega-6 content of the peanut butter. If it is too dry you can stir in some olive oil or macadamia nut oil, both of which are very low in omega-6 oil and far higher in safe monounsaturated fats.
Avoid using canola oil as it is not all that it is cracked up to be.
Purdue News July 31, 2003