Energize Your Morning With Peanut Butter

ATLANTA, Feb. 23, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- While 93 percent of Americans agree that breakfast is the most important meal, less than half eat a morning meal every day. Reasons for skipping out often include trying to lose weight or not having the time. Yet adding peanut butter can help to make breakfast quick, easy and provide the fuel needed for the rest of the day.

In anticipation of National Peanut Month in March and to help make mornings easier, the National Peanut Board is equipping peanut butter fans with nutritious breakfast tips and recipes at www.PB4Breakfast.com. Visitors are also encouraged to vote for their favorite peanut butter breakfast dishes. For every vote, America's peanut farmers will donate $5, up to $10,000, to help serve a nutritious breakfast to the hungry.

"Making time for breakfast and choosing to incorporate nutritious ingredients like peanut butter, which is a source of fiber, protein and good fats can play a role in maintaining a healthy diet," said Sherry Coleman Collins, MS, RD, LD RD, senior manager, marketing & communications, National Peanut Board.

According to the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, consuming breakfast has been associated with weight loss and weight loss maintenance, as well as improved nutrient intake. Peanut butter is a great addition to mornings because it is a natural, plant-based source of eight grams of protein and more than 30 essential nutrients and phytonutrients.

"Peanuts and peanut butter contain mono- and poly-unsaturated essential fatty acids, 'good' fats, which also provide a source of food energy and satisfaction," added Collins.

So spread peanut butter on a bagel, stir it in a smoothie or add a dollop on top of waffles during the hectic morning rush for a quick serving of protein. Combined with the fact that 90 percent of American pantries contain one or more jars of peanut butter, it's an easy go-to ingredient to help families get going with breakfast.

The National Peanut Board represents USA peanut farmers and their families. Through research and marketing, the Board is finding new ways to enhance production and sustainability.  The Board also invests in nutrition research and provides educational outreach helping consumers, health and culinary professionals recognize the great taste, nutrition and culinary versatility of USA-grown peanuts. For more information, visit www.nationalpeanutboard.org.

SOURCE National Peanut Board