Most people are aware that peanut butter is an excellent source of protein and nutrition but will cross it off the list when it comes to a weight-loss diet plan. Considering that two tablespoons pack 188 calories, 144 of which come from fat, it is not what most of us would call "diet food."

Think again. New research suggests that peanuts in all their forms—including peanut butter—may not only help you shed weight but keep it off over the long term.

What the Research Says

In 2010 review of available literature assessing the effects of nut consumption on obesity, researchers concluded that an increased intake of nuts was associated with a decreased risk of metabolic syndrome (a disorder characterized by excess abdominal girth and high cholesterol levels).﻿﻿

What they found was that peanuts and tree nuts reduced the post-prandial glycemic response (changes in blood sugar after eating) while providing the dietary fiber needed to make a person feel full.

A study from the Harvard School of Public Health found that frequent nut or peanut butter consumption (twice weekly) was associated with less weight gain over an eight-year period. Of the types and preparations consumed, peanuts and peanut butter were the most common.﻿﻿

Adding Peanut Butter to Your Diet

To get the full benefits of peanut butter in a weight-loss plan, you need to limit your daily intake to a single serving, or two tablespoons. Some people will consume peanut butter shortly before a meal to temper their hunger. Others will add peanut butter to a reduced-calorie meal to increase the dietary fiber and protein content.

If you are counting calories, don't mistake a heaping spoonful for a tablespoon. Instead, fill a proper measuring spoon with peanut butter and level it off with the back of a knife.

If you have high blood pressure, find a low-salt brand or a natural peanut butter with no added ingredients. On the other hand, if you prefer peanuts over peanut butter, limit yourself to a third of a cup per day. Opt for dry-roasted, unsalted peanuts which have no added fat.

Besides a good, old-fashioned peanut butter and jelly sandwich, here are other diet-friendly ideas to consider:

Dip apple slices or celery stalks into peanut butter.

Replace croutons in your salad with peanuts.

Make your own trail mix with dried fruit.

Spread peanut butter onto rice or popcorn cakes.

Swirl a tablespoon of peanut butter into fat-free yogurt.

Mix chopped peanuts in with low-fat microwave popcorn.

Add peanut butter to a low-fat vanilla shake or smoothie.

Stir peanut butter into a bowl of oatmeal or cream of wheat.

Tips and Suggestions

To eliminate added fats and sugars, try making fresh peanut butter. Some health food stores provide customers with a grinder and bulk peanuts to make a fresh supply in-store. Once home, you can add salt and a sweetener if desired.

When compared to store-bought peanut butter, natural peanut butter is smoother and mixes well in smoothies. The fat will tend to separate but can be easily reincorporated with a little stir.

With a little moderation and creativity, peanut butter may not only help quell your appetite but keep your diet firmly on track.