A study found that regular consumption of peanuts can slow down the aging process

A regular snack can have a significant impact on your lifespan.

Telomeres, located at the ends of chromosomes, shorten with age, which can lead to various diseases, including cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart problems—a study by Spanish scientists aimed to investigate the effect of diet on telomere length.

A study published in the journal Antioxidants examined the effects of daily consumption of peanuts and peanut butter. Antioxidants are known to help prevent telomere shortening, and peanuts are a rich source of substances such as vitamin E, niacin, and various polyphenols, including resveratrol.

The study involved 58 people, who were divided into three groups: one group ate 25 grams of roasted peanuts daily, the second group 32 grams of peanut butter, and the third group received a control product. Participants were forbidden from consuming other foods that could affect telomeres, such as nuts, grapes, dark chocolate, and wine.

At the end of the three-month experiment, the peanut group showed an increase in telomere length. Those who consumed peanut butter showed no positive changes, and 22% even experienced accelerated telomere shortening.

The scientists explain that whole peanuts, unlike processed butter, promote the production of short-chain fatty acids in the gut, which, in turn, reduce cortisol levels and indicators of depression. “These results highlight the importance of eating whole foods instead of processed foods to maintain cellular health,” the study authors note.

However, the study has its limitations, including the small number of participants and the short duration. Changes in telomeres occur gradually, so longer experiments will be needed to confirm the results.

Previously, scientists have already proven that regular consumption of nuts, including peanuts, reduces insulin levels and the amount of fat in the body.

It is also worth remembering that more than six million Americans are allergic to peanuts and cannot take advantage of these benefits.

Read also: British scientists have found that natural food is more effective in fighting excess weight.