Peanut lovers, beware! Experts warn excess consumption can trigger inflammation and weight gain

Peanuts are believed to be rich in nutritional value, just like other valuable nuts like almonds, walnuts, or cashews. Surprisingly, peanuts do not belong to the nut family. They are classified as legumes along with foods like green peas, soybeans, and lentils. But did you know that a popular snack that is great in taste has potential side effects?

Peanuts are considered nutritious due to the exceptional benefits they have to offer. They are known to contain heart-healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins, though they should be eaten in moderation daily. According to the Mayo Clinic, regular consumption of peanuts can lead to various types of allergies.

¡°Peanuts can be eaten as a snack due to their high protein and fibre content. The benefits of peanuts for your health can decrease when eaten in larger quantities or in excess. They are packed with calories, causing weight gain. Peanuts contain omega-6 fatty acids, which in excess can contribute to inflammation in the body,¡± says Dr Aarti Ullal, physician and diabetologist at Gleneagles Hospital Parel.

However, the snack is popularly considered nutritious due to the exceptional benefits they have to offer. They are known to contain heart-healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins, though they should be eaten in moderation daily.

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Peanuts can be harmful if not consumed in moderation; know the side effects

Dr. Ullal warns that for individuals with peanut allergies, even small daily exposures can trigger reactions, potentially leading to breathing problems, rashes on the skin, acid reflux, headaches, wheezing, coughing, and itching around the mouth and throat to anaphylaxis.

One has to be cautious, as peanuts can be addictive because of the fat content that drives dopamine in our brains. It is better to watch out for the quantity and stick to the instructions given by the expert.

On the other hand, ¡°A large number of people will experience bloating, gas, or other digestive discomforts from regular peanut consumption. Peanuts contain omega-6 fatty acids, which in excess can contribute to inflammation in the body. Shockingly, the high-fat content in peanuts may put one at risk of gallstones in some individuals,¡± highlights Dr Anjali Shinde, Clinical Nutritionist, Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, Pune.

Peanut allergy can also lead to breathing problems, rashes on the skin, acid reflux, headaches, wheezing, coughing, and itching around the mouth and throat. One has to be cautious, as peanuts can cause addiction.

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The daily recommendation of consuming peanuts as per experts

Peanuts can wreak havoc on your health when eaten in larger quantities. They are jam-packed with calories, causing weight gain. According to Dr. Ullal, ¡°One can eat them 2 to 3 times a month. For those with peanut allergies, even small daily exposures can trigger severe reactions, potentially leading to anaphylaxis. It is better to watch out for the quantity and stick to the instructions given by the expert.¡±

Timely intervention is key to overcoming problems related to peanut allergies. Stay vigilant when it comes to your health, as anything in excess is dangerous to your health.

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