If you're a peanut butter lover, you'll be happy to know that 2 tablespoons of chunky peanut butter with salt contains 188 calories. But what's more important is the nutritional value it brings to your body.

Peanut butter is a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. It's also loaded with essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium.

In this article, we'll explore the benefits of incorporating peanut butter into your diet, as well as potential drawbacks, ways to choose the healthiest peanut butter, and alternative nut butters to try.

Calories in 2 Tbsp Peanut Butter, Chunky W/Salt

As mentioned earlier, 2 tablespoons of chunky peanut butter with salt contains 188 calories. While this may seem like a lot for some, peanut butter is actually a calorically dense food that can give you the energy you need to power through the day. Of course, if you're watching your calorie intake, it's important to enjoy peanut butter in moderation. Pair it with sliced bananas, apples, or celery for a satisfying snack that won't bust your diet.

Nutritional Value of Peanut Butter

In addition to being high in calories, peanut butter is also high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional value of 2 tablespoons of peanut butter:

• 190 calories
• 16g fat
• 7g protein
• 2g fiber
• 3g sugar

As you can see, peanut butter is a good source of macronutrients and is low in sugar. However, it's important to keep in mind that the fat in peanut butter is mostly unsaturated, which means that it's healthy fat that can improve heart health.

Peanut Butter as a Protein Source

One of the biggest benefits of peanut butter is that it's a good source of plant-based protein. And since protein is an essential nutrient that helps build and repair tissues in the body, peanut butter can be a great addition to any diet, especially for vegetarians and vegans. In fact, 2 tablespoons of peanut butter contain around 7g of protein, which is roughly the same amount as 1 egg. So whether you're looking to build muscle or simply want to increase your protein intake, peanut butter is a delicious and easy way to get the job done.

Ways to Incorporate Peanut Butter into Your Diet

If you're looking for ways to incorporate peanut butter into your diet, the possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Spread it on toast, bagels, or crackers
• Use it as a dip for apple slices, celery, or carrots
• Add it to smoothies, oatmeal, or yogurt
• Bake it into cookies or muffins

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, peanut butter is a versatile ingredient that can add flavor and nutrition to any meal or snack.

Benefits of Eating Peanut Butter

In addition to being a tasty and convenient snack, peanut butter offers several health benefits. Here are a few reasons why you should consider adding it to your diet:

• It's a good source of healthy fats
• It can help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels
• It may improve heart health
• It can help regulate blood sugar levels
• It's a good source of protein and fiber

As with any food, it's important to consume peanut butter in moderation and be aware of your overall caloric intake. But as long as you're mindful of portion sizes, peanut butter can be a delicious and nutritious addition to a healthy diet.

Potential Drawbacks of Eating Peanut Butter

While peanut butter offers several health benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to keep in mind. Here are a few possible concerns:

• It's high in calories and fat, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess
• It may contain added sugars, sodium, or preservatives depending on the brand
• It's a common allergen and may cause allergic reactions in some individuals

If you're allergic to peanuts, obviously peanut butter is not the right choice for you. But for most people, peanut butter can be a healthy part of a balanced diet as long as you're mindful of portion sizes and choose high-quality brands that are free from unnecessary additives.

Peanut Butter as a Snack Option

One of the reasons why peanut butter is such a popular snack choice is because it's easy to prepare and doesn't require any cooking. Simply grab a spoon or pair it with your favorite fruits or veggies for a satisfying snack that will keep you full between meals. In fact, since peanut butter is high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, it can actually help reduce hunger and keep you feeling full for longer. So if you're prone to snacking throughout the day, a small serving of peanut butter may be just what you need to curb your cravings.

How to Choose the Healthiest Peanut Butter

When shopping for peanut butter, it's important to choose high-quality brands that are free from added sugars, sodium, or preservatives. Here are a few tips to help you make the healthiest choice:

• Look for natural peanut butter that contains only peanuts and maybe salt—no added oils, sugars, or chemicals
• Choose brands that have a short ingredient list and are minimally processed
• Avoid products that contain hydrogenated oils or palm oil, which can contribute to inflammation and heart disease

By choosing high-quality peanut butter, you can ensure that you're getting all the health benefits without any unnecessary additives.

Storage Tips for Peanut Butter

To keep your peanut butter fresh and tasty, it's important to store it properly. Here are a few tips to help you do just that:

• Keep your peanut butter in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Store it upside down to help prevent the oil from separating
• If your peanut butter does separate, don't worry—simply stir it well before using

By following these simple storage tips, you can ensure that your peanut butter stays fresh and delicious until the last spoonful.

Alternative Nut Butters to Try

If you're looking to switch things up or have a peanut allergy, there are plenty of other nut butters to try. Here are a few delicious and healthy options:

• Almond butter
• Cashew butter
• Pecan butter
• Hazelnut butter
• Sunflower seed butter

No matter which nut butter you choose, make sure to opt for brands that are free from unhealthy additives and are minimally processed.