Peanuts contain anti nutrients
Peanuts contain a number of antinutrients, substances that impair the absorption of nutrients and reduce nutritional value.
Phytic acid is one of the anti nutrients found in peanuts.
Phytic acid (or phytate) is found in all edible seeds, nuts, grains and legumes. In peanuts, it ranges from 0.2-4.5%.
Phytic acid is known to impair the absorption of iron and zinc from the digestive tract.
Hence, consumption of large amounts of peanuts can lead to deficiency of these minerals (iron and zinc) over time.
Phytic acid is usually not a concern in well-balanced diets and among those who eat meat regularly.
But it could be a problem in developing countries where the main source of food are grains or legumes.
If you think you are taking too many of peanuts daily, it may be a good idea to include multivitamins to compensate for the impaired absorption of iron and zinc.
