There's more of a difference between the almond butter and peanut butter than just how they're made. The almond butter vs peanut butter debate claims that one is actually better than the other. This has nothing to do with taste, and everything to do with the vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that are in each jar.
In a quick comparison, both nut butters have the same caloric and nutritional advantages, but almond butter has more vitamins and minerals while peanut butter tends to have more protein. But what else is different between the two and which one (if any) should you be eating more of? Let's find out.
What's the Difference?
When thinking of almonds and peanuts, you typically think of them both being nuts. But peanuts are actually categorized as a legume (like beans and peas), while almonds are tree nuts.
Not to mention, almond butter and peanut butter each have a unique taste. Peanut butter tends to be creamier, while almond butter has a much sweeter taste to it. Both can be used interchangeably, but some situations call for one or the other. It's all personal preference though.
When comparing the fats in these nut butters, almond butter comes out with the win. Almond butter contains a good amount of monounsaturated fatty acids, which help lower cholesterol levels. On the other hand, peanut butter has high levels of Omega-6 fatty acids, which can increase your risk of heart disease.
You're more likely to see peanut butter brands that contain a lot of other additives besides just peanuts, as this gives the peanut butter a better taste (so they say). But you don't need all this extra stuff to have peanut butter, all you need is peanuts. This goes for almond butter, too, but not as often. So whatever you get, just make sure it's organic and doesn't contain added oils, preservatives, or sweeteners.
Which Is Healthier?
While the macronutrient content of both nut butters are roughly the same, almond butter has a few more key micronutrients than peanut butter does. Almond butter is filled with vitamin E, magnesium, and iron, which all play important roles in the body. Almond butter also has more calcium than peanut butter, and calcium is important for building strong bones.
What should you buy?
If you're looking for a nut butter with more vitamins, minerals, and fiber, then almond butter is the choice for you. But don't think that choosing peanut butter will be harmful to your health, because that's not the case. Both nut butters are good for you, and it really just comes down to how much you want to spend.
Almond butter is more expensive than peanut butter is, so if you can't spend that extra cash on the almond butter then go ahead and get the peanut butter. You'll being getting many of the same health benefits, it will just provide a different taste.
Let's face it, you're going to buy the nut butter that you like the taste of. Even if you hear that almond butter has a few more micronutrients, that might not make a difference to you. When it comes to almond butter vs peanut butter, you have your own winner. Just make sure whatever you're buying is organic and free of added sweeteners.