Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Do Peanuts Contain Them?

Question
Hi Todd.  There has been a lot of publicity lately about benefits from Omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish oil and, I believe, nuts - but what about peanuts? Even I know that peanuts are not technically considered to be nuts ( in fact, other nuts consider them to be trailer trash ).  Seriously though, what's the story?  Thanks....Braden
.

Answer
Braden,

Peanuts do no have omega-3 fatty acid - sorry.  The only nuts that have omega-3 are walnuts.  Peanuts are high in monounsaturated fat, moderate in polyunsaturated fat and low in saturated fat.  Therefore, peanuts have a good mix of unsaturated fats (good fats) and make a healthy, but high-calorie, snack.

You can find some omega-3 fats in canola oil and soybeans, but fish are where the largest amounts of omega-3 are found.

The best fish for omega-3 fatty acids are; Atlantic herring, Atlantic mackerel, sockeye salmon, blue mussels, whiting, rainbow trout and albacore tuna.

Omega-3 oils are polyunsaturated fats that are known as EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid),  DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and alpha-linolenic acid.  EPA and DHA are known to reduce  triglycerides when taken in high doses (always talk with your doctor before using high-dose supplements).

I hope this helps.

Best wishes.

Todd
www.Lipid-Clinic.com