Nutritionally, peanut oil is similar to olive oil in the proportions of fatty acids it contains, being high in monounsaturates and low in saturates. Consumption of such acids in combination with high intakes of vegetables and fruit, is associated with lower rates of coronary heart disease. Ensuring adequate intakes of polyunsaturated fatty acids is a good way to encourage antioxidant vitamin E intakes. Peanuts Are a Significant Source of Plant Protein Peanuts and peanut butter are excellent vegetable sources of protein. Spreading peanut butter on bread in sandwiches is an obvious way to provide a complete vegetable protein.
Peanuts also are without the cholesterol or saturated fat found in many animal sources of protein.
Peanuts Are High in Arginine Peanuts are particularly high in arginine, an amino acid which has been shown to improve wound healing and immunity. Peanuts Are a Good Source of Fiber Peanuts and peanut butter contain both water soluble and water insoluble fiber. Insoluble fiber helps to increase stool bulk and prevent constipation, and soluble fiber may have a role in reducing cholesterol levels. Fiber reduces the risk of some types of cancer, helps control sugar levels, and may help reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood. Just one ounce of peanuts contains nearly half of the 13 vitamins necessary for the body's growth and maintenance.