Snacking On Peanuts And Peanut Butter May Help Prevent Obesity

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Snacking on peanuts could help prevent obesity, researchers say.

Scientists found people who snack on peanuts and peanut butter have a lower body mass index.

A study followed middle school students who swapped out unhealthy snacks for peanuts, and after 12 weeks the students who ate the peanuts had a lower body mass index than those who did not.

The students continued to lower their BMI for 12 weeks after the study.

Additionally, after six months, researchers found those who snacked on peanuts or peanut butter experienced a significantly greater decrease in body mass index compared to those who did not have the peanut snack.

Researchers found peanuts are a healthy alternative for children who frequently snack on "energy dense, unhealthy snacks."