High in beneficial fats, vitamins and minerals, peanuts can provide energy for weightlifting.
Image Credit: Nenov/Moment Open/Getty Images A typical bodybuilding diet is calculated to promote increased muscle mass and strength; proteins, carbohydrates and fats are carefully balanced, while processed and fried foods are kept to a minimum. When eaten in moderation, dry roasted peanuts can be used to supplement a bodybuilding diet. A convenient snack, peanuts can help soothe your hunger pangs as well as contribute needed protein and beneficial fats. Nibbling on unsalted dry roasted peanuts can help you avoid consuming unnecessary sodium.
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The Basics
At about 170 calories per ounce, about the same caloric investment as a 12-oz. can of non-diet soda, dry roasted peanuts are free of cholesterol and trans fats and provide 7 g protein, 6 g carbohydrates, and close to 3 g dietary fiber. Although the fat content is high at 14 g, only 2.2 g of this is undesirable saturated fat; the remainder is healthful monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, necessary for proper joint function and to nourish growing muscles. Peanuts are also beneficial due to their high fiber content, which can create a satisfying feeling of fullness and prevent binging on unhealthy foods. According to Bodybuilding.com, studies have shown that people who snack on peanuts daily tend not to exceed their recommended daily caloric intake.
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Minerals
Due to their high levels of assorted essential minerals, dry roasted peanuts are an especially good snack for bodybuilders. An ounce of peanuts provides almost 20 mg of calcium, needed for bone growth and development, along with 50 mg of magnesium, which plays a pivotal role in the production of both aerobic and anaerobic energy. Bodybuilding.com notes that even a slight deficiency of magnesium can decrease metabolic efficiency during workouts. The same ounce of peanuts is also rich in potassium, offering up a 180 milligrams. According to 24 Hour Fitness, athletes who work out intensely and sweat heavily may have a greater need for potassium; this essential mineral is required to maintain healthy blood pressure.
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Zinc
An ounce of peanuts also contains 0.8 mg zinc, or roughly 7 percent of the daily recommended value. In addition to supporting proper immune system function, zinc is vital in building proteins, creating DNA and triggering enzymes. Too much zinc, however, can raise the level of destructive free radicals produced in your body. You can ensure that you are getting enough zinc safely by obtaining it through dietary sources, such as peanuts.
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Niacin
An ounce of dry roasted peanuts contains 4 mg niacin, or vitamin B-3. This water-soluble B-complex vitamin is required for over 50 body processes, including the release of energy from carbohydrates and fats. It is also key in metabolizing protein, producing hormones, forming red blood cells and controlling cholesterol. The most important consideration for bodybuilders is that niacin, which controls blood sugar levels, is essential in generating the energy needed for strenuous workouts.
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references & resources
Dlife.com: Diabetic Food: Dry Roasted Unsalted Peanuts Nutritional Analysis
BNet; Advanced Nutrition - Absorbing Stuff from Team FLEX; Vicki Baker; February 2002
24 Hour Fitness.co.uk: 10 Foods High in Zinc
BodybuildingforYou.com: Vitamin B-3, Niacin and Cholesterol
Bodybuilding.com; Why Magnesium Matters to Athletes; Andew Hamilton, 2011
Bodybuilding.com; Peanut Butter Is A Super Sports Food; Nancy Clark, M.S., R.D., 2011
references & resources
Dlife.com: Diabetic Food: Dry Roasted Unsalted Peanuts Nutritional Analysis
BNet; Advanced Nutrition - Absorbing Stuff from Team FLEX; Vicki Baker; February 2002
24 Hour Fitness.co.uk: 10 Foods High in Zinc
BodybuildingforYou.com: Vitamin B-3, Niacin and Cholesterol
Bodybuilding.com; Why Magnesium Matters to Athletes; Andew Hamilton, 2011
Bodybuilding.com; Peanut Butter Is A Super Sports Food; Nancy Clark, M.S., R.D., 2011
High in beneficial fats, vitamins and minerals, peanuts can provide energy for weightlifting.
Image Credit: Nenov/Moment Open/Getty Images
Image Credit: Nenov/Moment Open/Getty Images
Dlife.com: Diabetic Food: Dry Roasted Unsalted Peanuts Nutritional Analysis
BNet; Advanced Nutrition - Absorbing Stuff from Team FLEX; Vicki Baker; February 2002
24 Hour Fitness.co.uk: 10 Foods High in Zinc
BodybuildingforYou.com: Vitamin B-3, Niacin and Cholesterol
Bodybuilding.com; Why Magnesium Matters to Athletes; Andew Hamilton, 2011
Bodybuilding.com; Peanut Butter Is A Super Sports Food; Nancy Clark, M.S., R.D., 2011
