March is one of our favorite months of the year. Why? Because it’s National Peanut Month … and National Nutrition Month!
To kick off the celebrations we hosted a #PeanutPower Twitter chat earlier this week for dietitians and nutrition-minded folks.
Here are some of the highlights:
1. Peanuts have more protein than any nut. Surveys show consumers want to eat more. How can people use peanuts to eat more protein?
@PeanutRD A1: I’m all about packing protein in my meals. My new fave is cooking with powdered peanut butter! So versatile! #peanutpower
For more info about peanuts and protein, check out our Peanut Nutrition page.
2. Some people worry about eating foods that contain fat. How do you help your clients enjoy good fats like those in peanuts?
CJ Nutrition @CJNutrition: Fat = “accessory” to a meal “outfit”- adds flavor, flair, and satisfaction. Peanuts on salad, pb in smoothies… #peanutpower
Scientific evidence suggests, but does not prove that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, including peanuts, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease. For more, visit our Heart Health page.
3. It’s National Peanut Month and National Nutrition Month! How can peanuts help people bite into a healthy lifestyle?
Nikki @Nikki_Nies: Double celebrations! Encouraging others to use peanuts in their daily meals-from smoothies, oatmeal and as #nuts! #peanutpower
CJ Nutrition @CJNutrition: Peanut butter makes it SO easy 2 bring lunch 2 work. PB + fruit sandwich! I sprinkle cinnamon+turmeric on mine! #peanutpower
For more about National Nutrition Month, visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
4. A recent CDC study showed only 4 in 10 people eat nuts daily. What are some easy ways to incorporate peanuts into snacks?
Carlene Thomas RDN @CarleneHEA: I loved that boiled peanut hummus recipe you all shared a few years ago- I think that’s a fun spin! #peanutpower http://healthfullyeverafter.co/blog/2013/5/15/boiled-peanut-hummus?rq=peanut
Check out the study here: http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1307352#t=abstract
5. Breakfast is important, but often skipped! What suggestions do you have for streamlining breakfast meals?
Lauren Harris-Pincus @LaurenPincusRD: Prep in advance! Most of my #breakfast recipes can be made ahead for a quick and nutritious morning. @PeanutRD #peanutpower
Leah McGrath, RDN @LeahMcGrathRD: overnight oatmeal..super fast is peanut butter & a banana! #grabandgo smoothies #peanutpower
Visit our Power of Peanuts at Breakfast page for more ideas.
6. A healthy lifestyle is important at every age. How can peanuts play a part in healthy eating for the whole family? Recipes?
Nikki @Nikki_Nies: Love @MelissadArabian‘s #recipe for sesame and peanut noodles! #peanutpower http://bit.ly/1BDWI9B
Lauren Harris-Pincus @LaurenPincusRD: My Deconstructed Chocolate Dipped Apple #recipe is drizzled with PB http://ow.ly/JEVHg #peanutpower @PeanutFarmers
For more kid-friendly information, visit our Child Nutrition page.
7. Have you tried powdered peanut butter or peanut flour? Gluten free, 50% protein & great for using in smoothies, soups & more.
Lauren Harris-Pincus @LaurenPincusRD: I’m addicted to powdered peanut butter, 5g protein & 45 calories. Sold! Wonderful for calorie controlled recipes. #peanutpower
Leah McGrath, RDN @LeahMcGrathRD: yes! Powdered peanut butter gr8 for smoothies . I have also mixed into oatmeal! #peanutpower
Get the scoop on peanut flour and powdered peanut butter here.
8. Peanut oil is a versatile and flavorful oil for cooking. How do you use/recommend peanut oil for cooking?
Nikki @Nikki_Nies: Use peanut oil to blend nuts for #homemade peanut butter + cooking #tofu #peanutpower
Learn more about peanut oil and other peanut ingredients here.
9. Athletes and weekend warriors are always looking for quick, nutrient rich foods. How do you recommend peanuts for these clients?
Cindy Silver RD @CindySilverRD: Peanut butter on pear,apple,cracker; peanuts w/raisins; peanut butter in a fruit-yogurt smoothie, green or not! #peanutpower
Find out more about how peanuts and peanut butter help Fuel the Athlete.
10. Peanuts and peanut butter are a great way to help people eat a plant-based diet. What are your fave peanut/veg recipes?
RebeccaSubbiah RDN @chowandchatter: Chow and Chatter: Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew another fun recipe with peanuts #peanutpower http://shrd.by/J07HPr
Leah McGrath, RDN @LeahMcGrathRD: Asian stir fry w/bean noodles, tofu & veg topped w/some peanuts& of course sriracha! @PeanutRD #peanutpower
Check out these plant-based eating tips.