Effect of peanut consumption on satiety and energy intake

Abstract

BackgroundDespite their high oil content there is evidence that peanuts do not contribute to weight gain. The nutrient profile of peanuts may assist with weight management by increasing satiety.ObjectiveTo examine effects of eating normal and Hi‐Oleic peanuts compared with potato crisps on satiety and subsequent energy intake.Experimental Design24 participants were randomized in a crossover trial to consume unsalted iso‐energetic serves of three test foods, viz. 60–80g of normal (oleic acid as 55% of total oil content) or Hi‐Oleic (oleic acid as 75% of total oil content) peanuts or 70–90g of potato crisps, after an overnight fast. Hunger/satiety was assessed at baseline, 30, 60, 120 and 180 minutes with visual analogue scales (VAS), after which a cold buffet meal was freely consumed. The same quantity of each food was consumed daily for a further 3 days during which food intake was recorded. Participants crossed over to the alternate foods and repeated the protocol twice at weekly intervals.ResultsCompared with potato crisps, Hi‐Oleic and normal peanuts reduced subsequent total energy intake both acutely (−21%; P<0.001, and −17%; P<0.004) and over the subsequent 4 day period (−11%; P<0.001 and −9%; P<0.008). There were no significant differences in perceived satiety estimated from the VAS scales.DiscussionConsumption of peanuts reduced subsequent food intake and may assist with weight management.