What is nut butter? Can it help me lose weight?

The best nut butters are those that are made with only the nut.  No added sugars, little salt, no hydrogenated oils or artificial ingredients and of course organic is the best.  Nut butters need no refrigeration and will not spoil.  Store opened nut butters in a cool, dry place and use within three months.  You can also refrigerate. Types of nut butters:  almond, walnut, sunflower and cashew.   Though good for you one must eat in moderation.  Nut butters can be good for your bones, heart and overall health.

Remember do not eat more that 2 tablespoon s of nut butter a day.  Avoid any nut butter with added sugar, salt and or labelled “reduced-fat”.

The best part of adding nut butters to your diet is you get the benefits of adding a tasty healthy fat.

 

Let’s look at each:

Peanut Butter (dieter’s best friend)

• Peanut butter has heart-healthy monounsaturated fat.    A serving of peanut butter contains powerful antioxidant vitamin E, magnesium and potassium and immunity-boosting vitamin B6
• Good choices:  Trader Joe’s Organic Peanut Butter, Adam’s Peanut Butter, Smucker’s Natural Peanut Butter Creamy and 365 Whole Foods Store Brand  

Almond Butter (great for weight loss)

• Almonds are an excellent source of vitamin E, manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc and selenium.
• Per serving has one of the least amount of calories
• Good source of protein
• Most fiber of all the nut butters
• Good choice:  Once Again Almond Butter

Walnut Butter (healthy heart)

• Walnuts are high in omega 3 fats
• Antioxidants
• Walnuts are good for your heart
• Good choice:  Artisana Organic Walnut Butter

Sunflower Butter

• Sunflower seeds are a good source of proteins and a rich source of vitamin E.
• Sunflower kernels are a great source of B-complex and folic acid.
• Good choice:  SunButter Creamy

Cashew Butter (Bone strength)

• Though high in calories cashews are packed with soluble dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals.
• They are rich in “heart-friendly” monounsaturated-fatty acids that help lower LDL cholesterol while increasing good HDL cholesterol in the blood.
• Minerals – manganese, potassium, copper, iron, magnesium, zinc and selenium.
• Good choice:  Artisana Organic Cashew Nut Butter

How can I use my nut butter?

• Spread on your toast for a fast breakfast choice on the run
• Put in your meal replacement shake for extra protein
• Use as a dip for your apple

As you can see, addition of nut butters will help you stay on track without feeling deprived.