Though having pimples is not a terrible health condition, many persons battling with pimples on either their face, back, neck or chest do not take it lightly for obvious reasons. Which leaves many groundnut lovers wondering do groundnuts cause pimples really? In this article, we discuss our findings on groundnuts and if the claim that it causes pimples is true or false.

Research shows that pimples are formed when sebum, an oily substance produced in the body clogs the pores of the skin. Many people seem to be aware of the fact that pimples originate from “oil” in the body, and for that reason tend to believe that oily foods automatically cause pimples. This explains why it is not strange to hear people say that they avoid taking butter, margarine, fried foods and of course, groundnuts because they cause pimples.

Groundnuts

Groundnuts, also known as peanuts, are legumes which have edible seeds that are made up of mostly protein and fat. They are mostly eaten boiled or roasted and are popularly used to produce a common oil for cooking called groundnut oil.

For many Nigerians, groundnuts are usually consumed as snacks. However, in some cultures in Africa, it is also used to make soup (groundnut soup) as well. Although there is a general claim that groundnuts cause pimples, available studies show that there is no scientific evidence to back up the claims.

Groundnuts contain trans-fat which explains why a lot of people assume that it causes pimples. If you do not know, trans-fats are bad fats because they increase the amount of blood bad cholesterol (LDL) in the body. Many fried foods contain trans-fats too which is why they are best avoided. Nevertheless, in relation to groundnuts, the trans fats contained in them are very minimal and for that reason are not enough to cause pimples when taken in moderation.

It may interest you to know that Groundnuts are rich in Omega-6s which are, in fact, important fatty acids that the body needs. This proves that it is good for health when added in normal proportion to a healthy diet. Fatty acids are anti-inflammatory which is contained in groundnuts, and can improve inflammatory skin conditions like eczema which may help to promote healthy skin via the decrease of inflammation. In addition, it is high in phytosterols that help to promote healthy cholesterol levels.

Note: Groundnuts contain androgen-like materials which boost testosterone. If a person is trying to reduce their testosterone levels as a result of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) in women or Prostate Cancer in men, they should avoid taking groundnuts in high proportion. The real cause of pimples is not known yet. As stated earlier, pimples form from oily substances in the body called sebum when it gets trapped in the skin, clog the pores and have bacteria develop on them. Thus, it is the blockage of the skin pores that results in pimples and not the intake of groundnuts as wrongly believed.

Other benefits of groundnuts you may not know:

1) Anti-aging effects:

Groundnuts are high in antioxidants such as Vitamin E which impedes rapid aging in human beings. Oxidation damages the skin cells; therefore, antioxidants hinder or slow down damage to cells caused by free radicals in the body system.

2) Source of folate in pregnancy:

Many pregnant women are often advised to take in folic acid as a routine supplement. They are a natural source of folate and for this reason; they can be beneficial in pregnancy. Folate or folic acid helps to prevent birth defects of the baby’s brain and spine.

NOTE: This does not serve as professional medical advice to pregnant women. Kindly Speak with your Doctor to be sure of healthy foods that you can eat during pregnancy.

3) Heart Health:

Groundnuts are very good for maintaining a healthy heart as they contain nutrients like magnesium, copper and resveratrol which all together help to improve the heart and reduce the risk of heart disease.

In a nutshell, there is no scientific evidence that groundnuts cause pimples nor is there any that connects skin health issues to its consumption as well. Nevertheless, just like every other food, too much of everything is bad. Groundnuts contain oils no doubt. Therefore, even though it has been stated that there is no link between groundnuts and pimples, it is advised that groundnuts whether taken as a snack or used in making foods should be consumed in moderation as balance is the key to a healthy diet.

KEY POINTS

Groundnuts do not cause pimples.
Groundnuts contain healthy fats that can actually be beneficial for skin health.
Trans fats, which are found in some groundnuts, can be bad for your health if consumed in large amounts.
It is important to eat groundnuts in moderation, as with any food.

If you are battling with pimples or acne and will appreciate home-based solutions to treat your pimples

Medical Disclaimer: KompleteCare™ aims to improve the quality of life for everyone with fact-based content about the nature of diseases, preventive care, behavioural health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.