Peanut butter is a popular food that can be found in almost every household. It’s a great source of protein, healthy fats and vitamins, but it’s also high in calories and fat. If you’re trying to watch your weight, it’s important to know how much peanut butter you can eat per day.
Nutritional Facts
A two-tablespoon serving of peanut butter contains 188 calories, 16 grams of fat, 7 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber. While peanut butter is a good source of healthy fats, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s still high in calories. That’s why it’s important to watch how much peanut butter you consume each day.
Recommended Serving Size
The American Heart Association recommends a serving size of two tablespoons of peanut butter per day. This amount will give you an adequate amount of protein, healthy fats and vitamins while still keeping your calorie intake in check. Be sure to measure out two tablespoons of peanut butter each time you eat it to make sure you’re not overeating.
When to Avoid Peanut Butter
If you have a peanut allergy, it’s important to avoid peanut butter and anything containing peanuts. If you’re trying to lose weight, it’s best to avoid peanut butter because it’s high in calories. Instead, opt for other sources of protein such as lean meats, fish and eggs.
Health Benefits of Peanut Butter
Despite its high calorie content, peanut butter can still provide some health benefits. It’s a good source of protein, which can help you feel fuller for longer and promote muscle growth. It also contains healthy fats, which can help control your cholesterol levels and improve your heart health. Peanut butter also contains various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, magnesium and potassium.
How to Make Peanut Butter Healthier
It’s possible to make peanut butter healthier by choosing a low-sugar variety. These types of peanut butter typically contain fewer added sugars, which can help you reduce your calorie intake and keep your blood sugar levels in check. You can also opt for natural peanut butter, which contains fewer preservatives and additives.
Peanut Butter Alternatives
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to peanut butter, there are several options available. Almond butter, for example, is lower in calories and fat than regular peanut butter and is a good source of vitamin E and magnesium. Cashew butter is another option and is high in protein and healthy fats. Sunflower seed butter is also a healthy option and is a good source of vitamin E and zinc.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many calories are in two tablespoons of peanut butter?
Two tablespoons of peanut butter contain 188 calories.
2. Is peanut butter healthy?
Yes, peanut butter is healthy as it is a good source of protein, healthy fats and vitamins.
3. What is the recommended daily serving size of peanut butter?
The American Heart Association recommends a daily serving size of two tablespoons of peanut butter.
4. Should I avoid peanut butter if I'm trying to lose weight?
Yes, it is best to avoid peanut butter if you're trying to lose weight as it is high in calories.
5. What are some health benefits of peanut butter?
Some health benefits of peanut butter include feeling fuller for longer, promoting muscle growth, controlling cholesterol levels, and providing various vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, magnesium and potassium.
6. How can I make peanut butter healthier?
You can make peanut butter healthier by choosing a low-sugar variety or a natural peanut butter.
7. What are some alternatives to peanut butter?
Some alternatives to peanut butter include almond butter, cashew butter and sunflower seed butter.
8. Is it safe to eat peanut butter if I have a peanut allergy?
No, it is not safe to eat peanut butter if you have a peanut allergy.
9. Does peanut butter contain added sugars?
Yes, some peanut butter varieties contain added sugars.
10. What vitamins and minerals can be found in peanut butter?
Peanut butter contains various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, magnesium and potassium.
11. Does peanut butter contain any fiber?
Yes, a two-tablespoon serving of peanut butter contains 3 grams of fiber.
12. Is regular peanut butter better than natural peanut butter?
It depends on your personal preference and dietary needs. Natural peanut butter is lower in calories and fat and contains fewer preservatives and additives.
13. How much fat is in two tablespoons of peanut butter?
Two tablespoons of peanut butter contain 16 grams of fat.
14. Can eating too much peanut butter cause weight gain?
Yes, eating too much peanut butter can cause weight gain as it is high in calories.
15. Should I avoid peanut butter if I'm trying to lower my cholesterol?
No, peanut butter can actually help lower your cholesterol as it contains healthy fats.
16. What are the benefits of eating almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Almond butter is lower in calories and fat than regular peanut butter and is a good source of vitamin E and magnesium.
17. Does cashew butter contain more protein than peanut butter?
Yes, cashew butter contains more protein than peanut butter.
18. Is sunflower seed butter a healthy alternative to peanut butter?
Yes, sunflower seed butter is a healthy alternative to peanut butter as it is high in protein and healthy fats and is a good source of vitamin E and zinc.
19. Can I consume more than two tablespoons of peanut butter per day?
It is not recommended to consume more than two tablespoons of peanut butter per day as it is high in calories.
20. Does eating peanut butter increase my risk of developing a peanut allergy?
No, eating peanut butter does not increase your risk of developing a peanut allergy.