Few foods are as universally loved as peanut butter. Its smooth texture, rich aroma and sweet-and-salty flavor make it irresistible to many. Add in that it pairs naturally with bread and jelly, tastes great with chocolate and even serves as a good dip for fruits and vegetables, and it's no wonder that peanut butter is a staple in millions of homes.
But popularity doesn't always mean something is good for you. While peanut butter provides protein, healthy fats and valuable nutrients, it's also a calorie-dense food − there are other factors to consider, such as how it affects cholesterol.
Understanding what cholesterol is and how peanut butter fits into a heart-healthy diet can help you enjoy it more wisely.
What is cholesterol, and why is it important to keep in a healthy range?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that "your body needs to build cells, produce hormones, make vitamin D and support digestion," says Lisa Young, a registered dietitian nutritionist, author of "Finally Full, Finally Slim," and an adjunct professor of nutrition at New York University. She explains that the liver produces all the cholesterol your body needs, though some cholesterol also comes from food.
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