Peanut Skins The Next Fountain of Youth?

RALEIGH, N.C.Traditionally considered a waste product, peanut skins are making a name for themselves as the next anti-aging compound thanks to their high levels of phenolic compounds. As reported by The News & Observer, a researcher at North Carolina State University's food science program is examining peanut skins in search of anti-aging chemical compounds, including resveratrol and flavonoids, traditionally associated with grapes and red wine.

"What people fail to realize is that peanuts and peanut skins have just as many, if not more, antioxidants as fruits and vegetables," said Wanida Lewis, a doctoral candidate in the Food Sciences Bioprocessing and Nutrition laboratory at NCSU.

Many plants naturally produce phenolic compounds for defense when they are under attack by pathogens and herbivores. Animal studies have shown the compounds have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties that can help lower blood sugar and reduce negative effects of a high-fat diet.