With androgen–like hormones being prominent in peanuts, it certainly seems like they can cause acne.
But the issues may not stop there. You’ve likely heard about the necessity of getting sufficient omega fatty acids within your diet.
But you want to make sure you’re getting the right kind.
Omega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory. Salmon, tuna, herring, and other types of fish are excellent sources of this substance.
However, your body doesn’t need as much omega-6 fatty acid. This material is pro–inflammatory, which makes it bad for people who are prone to acne breakouts.
Diets high in omega-6 fatty acids can result in chronic inflammation, which is where your immune system goes overactive.
It treats every instance of an acne infection like a major threat. This produces intense swelling and redness around the pimples.
But it’s not just peanuts in peanut butter you have to watch out for. Whether you realize it or not, peanut butter is often loaded with added vegetable oils.
Canola, sunflower, and soybean oils are also extremely high in omega-6 fatty acids.
So it’s basically like you’re double dipping in a substance that has a fairly high link to skin problems.
Are Peanuts Good for Your Skin?
While there’s research to suggest peanuts can negatively impact your skin, it’s also plausible for peanuts to help you out.
There are a lot of benefits to eating peanuts when it comes to the health of your heart, brain, and perhaps even skin.
They’re an excellent source of healthy fats and protein.
Peanuts are also filled with magnesium, potassium, and antioxidants, all of which help your body in various ways.
They make for a nutritional snack because they fill you with energy and keep you fuller longer. So you’re less likely to indulge in sugary foods before your next full meal.
Antioxidants are great for keeping blemishes off your skin, but you also shouldn’t discount the presence of androgen-like materials.
The science is still out on how exactly peanuts and peanut butter interact with your skin.
And of course, everyone’s body is different. You may react to peanuts differently than someone else. One of the best things you can do for your skin health is to keep a journal if you’re prone to acne breakouts.
You should log everything you eat and take note whenever a pimple develops. You can then go back to see what you ate right before the breakout.
You may find that peanuts don’t bother your skin at all. Instead, your acne is the result of something else entirely.
If peanuts do cause outbreaks, then you may have a sensitivity and need to cut back.