You likely have heard that peanut butter is a great way to help take care of your health. It's filled with protein, healthy fats, and is one of those staple foods for many fitness enthusiasts. But before you reach for that jar, here's a thing or two you should know: not all peanut butters are created equally, and some might not be as healthy as you may think it is.
Here are five reasons why your peanut butter may not be living up to the health hype.
1. Added Sugars: Not So Sweet After All
Most of the popular brands offering peanut butter have sugar in them. A little sweetness may tempt one into overindulgence, but that amount of added sugars can lead to weight gain, spikes in blood sugar levels, and eventually render a person prone to chronic diseases like diabetes. All these sweetened versions of peanut butter are actually desserts masquerading as a source of pure protein and healthy fats.
2. Unhealthy Oils: What's Lurking in Your Jar?
Some brands use hydrogenated oils to keep peanut butter smooth and spreadable. Hydrogenated oils are packed with trans fats. Trans fats raise your bad cholesterol or LDL, while slashing your good cholesterol or HDL. And when that happens, that puts your heart's health in jeopardy. If this is the case with your peanut butter, with hydrogenated oils in them, then it isn't as heart-healthy as you may think.
3. Preservatives: The Shelf-Life Shortcut
Long shelf life may sound attractive, but it usually comes with some sort of catch: preservatives added in to keep the peanut butter fresh for months, even up to a few years. While they are not always harmful, they add a number of unnecessary chemicals to your diet. Natural peanut butter relies on quality and freshness rather than preservatives, like Alpino.
4. Artificial Ingredients: The Fake-Out
Some peanut butters have flavorings and dyes added to enhance taste and appearances. The trouble is that these ingredients are unnatural at best, and their health implications are harmful. You are looking at eating clean foods that are healthy, and the last thing you would want in that peanut butter is artificial junk.
5. Adulteration: When Peanut Butter Isn't Just Peanuts
A number of peanut butters have a real adulteration problem: the inclusion of cheap fillers, low-quality oils, and even other types of nuts. This not only reduces the nutritional value but can be very dangerous for those with allergies. Further, aflatoxins are toxic substances produced by molds on peanuts. Low-quality or adulterated peanut butter is more likely to have higher levels of these toxins, posing risks to your liver and overall health.
Healthier Option: Alpino 100% Natural Peanut Butter
If health is what you are after, then Alpino is the way to go. Alpino Peanut Butter is made from 100% natural ingredients and none of the bad stuff.
Why is Alpino unique?
Just Peanuts: Alpino Peanut Butter is a preparation of just peanuts with a touch of salt. No added sugar, no unhealthy oils, no preservatives pure, delicious peanuts.
No Hydrogenated Oils: Alpino does not use hydrogenated oils; hence, you don't have to be concerned about the bad fats. In case the separation of the natural oils occurs, just stir it-the sign of purity.
Artificial Ingredient Free: On Alpino, you get the original taste of peanuts without artificial flavors or colors added. It's as natural as it gets with peanut butter.
High Standards for Quality: Alpino goes the extra length to ensure their peanut butter is free from aflatoxins and other harmful additives. You get a safe and healthy product every time.
Best Ways to Enjoy Alpino Peanut Butter for Your Fitness Goals
Now that you know Alpino is indeed the better choice, here are some delicious ways to include it into your diet for maximum health benefits:
- Start Your Day Right:
- Spread Alpino Classic Peanut Butter Crunch on whole-grain toast
- Top with banana slices for a nutritious breakfast.
This combination will provide you with all the energy, protein, and healthy fats you need to kick-start your day.
- Smoothie Booster:
- Add a spoon of Alpino Natural Peanut Butter to your morning smoothie.
- Adds creaminess and protein, going really well with fruits like bananas, berries, and spinach.
Great for post-workout recovery!
- Bake Healthier Treats:
- The use of Alpino Peanut Butter in baking offers a rich nutty flavor without the addition of harmful additives.
- Be it cookies, muffins, or energy bars, you get a healthy twist on your favorite treats.
- Snack on the go:
- Keep a jar of Alpino Chocolate Peanut Butter handy for a quick and satisfying snack.
- Dip in a spoon or enjoy with crackers for a tasty energy boost when you need it most.
- Blend it right!
- Apply Alpino Classic Peanut Butter on any bread of choice and combine it with a banana or apple for the extra fruits goodness.
- Just throw a spoon of Alpino Natural Peanut Butter into your shakes: it won't be noticeable in taste but will be a bit creamier and higher in protein.
Try it with fruits like bananas, berries, and spinach.
Conclusion
Admittedly, peanut butter can be a real health food, but few brands live up to the reputation. Many of the popular varieties are packed with sugar, unhealthful oils, preservatives, and artificial ingredients that work against your health goals. Another issue with the peanut butters is adulteration with low-quality fillers or even aflatoxins, both harmful in their own ways.
We at Alpino are all about making the difference!
With 100% natural ingredients and no harmful additives, it's the smart choice for anyone who actually cares about what they're putting into their body. Whether you are fueling a workout, enjoying a snack, or looking for a nutritious ingredient to use in your recipes, Alpino has got you covered.
Ready to make the switch? Find all of Alpino's natural peanut butter products here, and start enjoying the pure healthy goodness of peanut butter today!