5 Reasons why you should replace Peanut Butter with Almond Butter

Peanut butter is a staple of the Aussie diet. Particularly for our kids. Liberally spread on toast or sandwiches, this delight was an important part of my culinary upbringing. But what if I were to tell you there’s a healthier way? One that involves replacing peanuts with almonds? For while peanuts and almonds do share similar nutritional properties, such as being rich in fibre and protein, almonds come out way ahead in a number of key areas.

So, with this in mind, here’s five reasons why you should switch to healthier, almond butter.

Antioxidants. Almonds are crammed full of antioxidants, particularly Vitamin E, the fat-soluble group of compounds that fight damage caused to cells by harmful free radicals.
Vitamins and minerals. Almonds have higher magnesium and iron content than peanuts, with the protective and promotion of good healthy muscles and cells that these entail.
Good fats. Almonds are superior in providing a higher percentage of monounsaturated fats that are not only better for you but will help give you that “full” feeling, though without adding too many calories.
Less likely to have toxins from pesticides. Almonds are blessed with a hard shell that makes it more difficult for toxic pesticides to penetrate. Peanuts also have hard shells however being ground dwelling, they are more likely to absorb pesticides from the surrounding soil.
Less acidic. Almonds are considered to be more alkaline than peanuts. Alkalinity has been shown (though the jury’s still out on this) to help increase energy and prevent some illnesses. Some nutritionists believe around 60 percent of foods consumed should be alkaline for a well-balanced diet.

Almonds have now gained a reputation as one of Mother Nature’s superfoods, superior to other nuts for health benefits and they have become a recommended part of our diet. Health benefits associated with almonds include lowering blood sugar, helping to keep blood pressure at a manageable level and lowering bad cholesterol levels.

Making your own almond butter is easy and there are a number of ingredients you add for taste. Or you can check out the range of almond butters available here. When making your own, or buying almond butters, always choose organic products that have minimal processing.

A delicious snack alternative to peanut butter for the whole family with the extra benefits of the flavour packed nutrients. Whether spread on your favourite toast or added to your favourite smoothie or health shake or used as a dip with some carrot or celery sticks, your family will love almond butter. Not only will swapping your peanut butter for almond butter be more nutritious, but it’ll lose nothing in taste comparison. So next time you or the kids reach into the fridge for a dip into the peanut butter jar, replace it with almond butter.