In a world obsessed with snacks, it’s easy to forget the one that has been in front of us for centuries. Nuts are one of the most consumed household snacks in the country, with peanuts being the most common of the group. Peanuts and peanut butter make up 67% of all nut consumption in the United States. Let’s break down some little-known facts about peanuts and nuts in general.
Peanut Trees Are An Urban Myth
When you think of how nuts grow most people lean toward the idea of them coming from trees, however, that is not the case. If you travel across the states, you will come by things like American walnut trees or pecan trees. Those trees fed the idea that all nuts come from trees when that isn’t true. The most common nut, the peanut, grows from a plant. So if someone tells you they have peanut trees growing in their backyard, they’re more than likely confused. One plus of learning this is that you may have realized its much easier to grow peanuts than you once thought.
Nuts Can Have A Very Positive Impact On Your Life
These days people rush to find the healthiest snacks possible. You’ll see items advertised using their calorie count which is something that was previously uncommon. Unbeknownst to many, nuts have incredible nutritional value but continue to be left behind in the snack aisle. According to Harvard research, two servings of nuts every day can help in fighting against diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. No matter what types of nuts you eat, it can benefit you in so many ways. A few studies have even indicated that eating nuts can help in improving brain function. One eight-week study of over 60 healthy young adults found that consuming walnuts improved comprehension.
The United States Loves Peanuts
It’s no surprise that a country that loves baseball would also love peanuts. According to data from the USDA, as of 2013, American peanut farmers exported more than 350,000 metric tons of peanuts. That is a whole lot of peanuts and don’t forget about peanut butter which only adds to the obsession. Between 2008 and 2014, Americans ate almost 120 million pounds of peanut butter every year.
What is your favorite kind of nut? Let us know in the comments!
