Study Finds Link Between Peanut Consumption and Lower Obesity Rates in Mexican-American Children

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A recent study by the Children’s Nutrition Research Center in Houston, Texas has discovered an interesting correlation between obesity and peanut consumption. According to their study, Mexican-American children who consume peanuts at least once a week are less likely to be overweight or obese.

Currently, 39% of the Mexican-American children are classified as overweight or obese, compared to the 32% of all children in the United States- a fact that prompts studies like this, that explore what factors and foods affect childhood obesity.

Studies have long shown the health benefits of nut consumption for adults, aiding in lower lipid levels, lower body mass indices, and reduced risk of coronary artery disease. This study looks specifically at how these benefits relate to children.

It was found that the Mexican-American children in the study who ate peanuts had significantly higher intakes of several vitamins and micronutrients, such as magnesium and Vitamin E, along with having lower low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol levels. These results show that the consumption of peanuts and/or peanut butter may be associated with lower weight status, improved diet, and lipid levels among Mexican-American Children.

Finding these key foods or health factors that may assist in reducing childhood obesity is vital, because they may also play a role in reducing obesity related diseases. Hispanically Speaking News discussed the research pointing out that, “These vitamins are often deficient amongst Mexican-Americans.  Consumption of those vitamins, amongst others, helps reduce the risk for diabetes and heart disease.” More research will be needed to see how the consumption of peanuts plays a role in the overall health of children and adolescents.