Almond Butter & Apple Slices

This is a snack I highly recommend! But you are likely asking yourself… why not peanut butter? My answer to you is that although peanut butter (PB) and almond butter (AB) both have some very good nutrients, there are some important differences that I believe you should be aware of!

 

Both PB and AB provide you with good sources of vitamin E, magnesium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, and fiber. They are also both high in monounsaturated fat (a good fat). The main difference between the two nut butters comes from how they are made. Almond butter (the brand that I buy) is natural- with no added preservatives, sugars, or artificial colours/flavours. There is only one ingredient, dry roasted almonds! Often times, peanut butter includes additives such as salt, sugar, and hydrogenated oils. Too much of these additives over a long period of time increase one’s risk of hypertension and heart disease. You don’t want to end up with either of these.

My personal opinion about AB is that I love it…now. To be completely honest with you, when I first tried it (2-3 years ago) I wasn’t sold on it. I was stuck in my ways, resistant to change, and preferred the good old PB. It bothered me that you have to keep AB in the fridge, so by the time you spread the cold AB onto your fresh-out-of-the-toaster slice of bread… it was cold. Yuck. Why am I telling you all of this? I’m trying to make a point that you should give healthy foods (that you once thought you didn’t like) a second chance!! A combination of these second chances and also educating myself on the difference between the two butters has shaped who I am today… an almond butter convert! 

And I get it, AB&J just won’t ever sound as good as PB&J, but do yourself a favour and at least TRY almond butter! And if you just can’t get over the slight change in taste or the cold toast situation, please please please read the labels on the peanut butter and make wise choices in terms of additives!

Where to shop: I get my almond butter at Costco (MaraNatha brand). FYI- I have seen some grocery stores carry this brand of almond butter, but the container is half the size for the same price as the Costco sized jar!

PS: Here is a good comparison of AB and PB in terms of nutrient content (and almond butter wins!) http://www.prevention.com/whats-healthier-peanut-butter-or-almond-butter