Benefits and Side Effects of Peanuts - Mungfali ke Fayde aur Nuksan

Benefits of Peanuts
10. Lowers Cholesterol
Peanuts contain mono-unsaturated fatty acids especially oleic acid that prevents coronary diseases (impaired blood flow in the arteries that supply blood to the heart). It lowers bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol in the body.

9. Fights Stomach Cancer
Poly-phenolic (Anti-oxidants) are present in peanuts in high concentrations. It has the ability to reduce the risk of stomach cancer by reducing the production of carcinogenic nitrous-amines.

8. Regulates Blood Sugar
Manganese in peanuts helps in calcium absorption, fats and carbohydrates metabolism and sugar level regulation in blood.

7. Low Risk Weight Gain
High in healthy monounsaturated fats and nutrient-rich, it’s one favorite food for weight loss. If you eat peanut butter every morning with bread slices, you have less chances of gaining weight.

6. Fights Depression
Inadequate secretion of serotonin by the nerve cells in the brain is responsible for causing depression. Peanuts contains an amino acid called tryptophan which aids the release of serotonin, thus helping you fight depression.

5. Provides Clear Skin
Toxins can cause breakouts and excess oil on your skin. The high content of dietary fiber in peanuts helps in flushing out excess toxins, thus making your skin clear and flawless.

4. Anti-Ageing Benefits
Peanuts contain Vitamin C and Vitamin E which can prevent signs of ageing like wrinkles, spots and fine lines. They also contain resveratrol, a potent anti-ageing phytochemical also found in grapes and red wine.

3. Good Source of Biotin
Biotin is a B-vitamin that is vital for hair growth and overall scalp health. It is produced by our bodies themselves in the intestines and also found in many food items. Deficiency of biotin can lead to hair loss. Peanuts are good sources of B vitamin and folate which contribute to healthy hair.

2. Prevents Hair Loss
Peanuts contain Vitamin C which assists in the production of collagen that keeps the tissues of our hair together. They contain I-arginine which is used in the treatment of male pattern baldness while omega-3 fatty acids strengthen our hair follicles and promote hair growth.

1. Improves Memory
Peanuts are often called the “brain food” as they contain Vitamin B3 or niacin which improves brain functioning and boosts memory. They also contain a flavonoid called resveratrol which helps in improving blood flow to the brain by 30%.


Eating too many peanuts could interfere with the absorption of minerals and if you buy salted peanuts, you’ll consume a lot of sodium. This might undo the health benefits that you’ll get, if you consume the required number of peanuts.

These are the side effects of eating too many peanuts:

Weight Gain
Nutrient Deficiency
Mineral Absorption Issues
High Blood Pressure