So what’s up with PB2?

One of the 21 Day Fix questions I am hearing a lot of lately is “how much PB2 can I use?” For those of you who don’t know, PB2 is a powdered peanut butter, made by squeezing natural oils out of the peanut and then dehydrating what’s left, yielding a powder in which 90% of the fat is removed from the peanut.

PB2 is much lower in fat and calories—about 45 calories per 2 tablespoons, compared with 180 calories for 2 tablespoons of peanut butter. Peanut butter, however, will give you more protein (8g vs. 5g) and fiber (3g vs 2g) per serving. Peanut butter is also a decent source of protein, iron, vitamin E, and folate, whereas those nutrients are sacrificed during the manufacturing process of PB2.

That being said…I am not a fan. Why?

I make a conscious effort every day to fuel my body with the most nutrient dense foods I can find. PB2 is a processed food. It’s another example of how food manufacturers trick consumers into thinking less calories is better for you. A much healthier choice is all natural peanut butter which contains a dose of healthy fats that keep you satisfied and reduce cravings. True, you may have to use less, but here’s a case of less is more in terms of flavor and nutrition.

Have you tried it? If you’re a fan of eating a spoonful right out of the jar or like to dip fruits and veggies in it, then stick to good old fashioned natural peanut butter. Mixing PB2 with water as directed results in a gritty, chalky-like glob with a slight peanut flavor. Mixing it in a smoothie, shake yogurt or oatmeal is a more palatable option.

In addition, PB2 contains added sugar and is not organic. Peanut crops are routinely sprayed with toxic pesticides that are suspected to have caused the increase in peanut allergies and are linked to and increased risk of birth defects, nerve damage and cancer.

Want to know more? Here’s Autumn Calabrese’s opinion?

Peanut Butter vs Almond Butter

When it comes to nut butters, peanut butter wins in the people’s choice category. The smooth, gooey decadent food has been a staple in American kitchens for centuries. Mom’s love Jif and kids do too! But if you’re ready to break up with your love affair with peanut butter, give almond butter a chance. It’s rich in healthy fats, it’s a better source of fiber and it tastes amazing. This infographic from Foodbabe.com says it all:

From: Foodbabe.com

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