Same with those having allergies with peanuts, people who have arthritis should also shun these from their diet. As a legume- high in uric acid, peanut no doubt can worsen their condition. However for most ordinary people, not having the problems mentioned, worries about eating peanuts is not necessary. That is, as long as we take them in moderation.

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Peanut isn’t a bad news. Research shows that nuts (peanuts are included in the nut class although technically a legume) are good source of essential nutrients and may be useful in improving the cardiovascular health, preventing cancer.

• Peanuts contain a lot of fat but the right kind

Most people think of them as 'too fatty', however fifty percent of the fat in peanut is mono-unsaturated. This type of fat can help lower the LDL or the bad cholesterol without affecting the HDL or good cholesterol. In addition, a much greater consumption of monounsaturated fats lower the risk of heart disease, Alzheimer, asthma breast cancer and depression.

• Peanuts contain resveratrol, folic acid and B vitamins

Resveratrol is a powerful anti-oxidant. More to this one ounce of peanuts provides 10 percent of the daily recommended amount of folic acid and B vitamins to lower the risk of heart disease.

• Peanut butter is an affordable source of calories

About one tablespoon of peanut butter is equivalent to 1000 calories (4g of protein) of peanut butter. Indeed a cheap source of energy for athletes or active people who needs to fuel up.

However let this be a warning, that most commercial peanut butter has hydrogenated fat which can be undesirable. Hydrogenated fat increases the risk of heart disease when taken in excess.

Buy a peanut butter that doesn’t have hydrogenated fat added. The natural kind of peanut butter is the best or those that only includes peanut and salt. These types have oils that rise to the top. You can decrease the overall fat content by pouring it off.

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Eating in moderation

Peanuts can be addicting. The best way of to limit their intake is to not to buy much. If you are accustomed into buying a big bag, buy the smaller pack the next time. Peanuts are best incorporated with recipes. Mix them with pretzels and raisins or grind them into sauce instead. Sprinkle them as chopped nuts into your food. Me? I like them best with my ice cream.