A better peanut butter: it's a subject close to many people's hearts, and research is now suggesting peanut butter's good for it as well. (Test: peanut butter).(Product/Service Evaluation)

Publication: Choice (Chippendale, Australia)

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COPYRIGHT 2003 Australian Consumers' Association

It's a staple in most pantries and many of us grew up munching on a peanut butter sandwich. Research is now showing that, in moderation, it can also make a valuable contribution to your diet.

While there's no denying peanut butter is around 50% fat and high in kilojoules, it's not all bad news for fans. The fat is largely monounsaturated 'good' fat, which won't raise cholesterol levels and in fact may help to lower them. Foods high in monounsaturated fat, such as peanuts, avocado, olive oil and most nuts, may help prevent heart disease and diabetes, and a recent study also suggested that eating nuts and/or peanut butter five times or more a week (combined with an otherwise healthy diet and lifestyle) may reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes in women.

Peanut butter also provides a valuable amount of protein, vitamin E, dietary...

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