Crunchy or smooth, peanut butter has long been a favorite snack in all our 'healthy' diets. Whether spread on toast, blended into a smoothie, or mixed into oatmeal, it’s a go-to comfort food, especially if you got into fitness for the gains. But for those looking to lose weight, peanut butter often raises concerns due to its high calorie and fat content. However, research suggests that incorporating peanut butter into a balanced diet may actually support weight loss—if consumed correctly.A study in the October 2018 issue of the European Journal of Nutrition looked at almost 375,000 individuals and concluded that those who habitually consumed peanuts or other nuts packed on fewer pounds after five years than those who didn't. In a few instances, even nut-eaters lost weight. Kids who ate peanuts and peanut butter were found to have lower body weights and improved overall diet by a 2013 Nutrition Research study.Peanut butter is rich in fiber, healthy fats, and protein—three essential nutrients that suppress hunger, increase satiety, and fuel metabolism. Yet, there are some pitfalls individuals take when introducing peanut butter into their diets that may ruin their weight-loss plan.Why Peanut Butter Can Be Good for Weight Loss?Nutrient-rich and extremely versatile, peanut butter is a food far more than its delicious spread suggests. It contains a wealth of essential vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients, so it is a highly desirable part of a balanced diet. In 100 grams of peanut butter, there is:Calories: 588Protein: 21.9 gramsFats: 49.5 grams (predominantly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats)Carbohydrates: 24 gramsDietary Fiber: 5.7 gramsIn addition to these macronutrients, peanut butter is also a rich source of magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, niacin, and vitamin B6, all of which are essential to metabolism, immune function, and overall health. Notably, although it is rich in fat, most of the fat content is composed of heart-healthy unsaturated fats that are able to lower cholesterol levels and maintain heart health.Common Mistakes That Ruin Your Weight Loss While Eating Peanut ButterThough peanut butter may be a helpful tool in the management of weight, using it to commit some of these very common mistakes could cause unwanted weight gain instead of weight loss.Mistake 1: Using Peanut Butter with Added Salt and SugarNot all peanut butter is the same. Most commercial brands have added sugar and salt, which can be detrimental to weight loss. Excessive sodium can cause water retention and bloating, and too much sugar adds unnecessary calories and increases cravings.What to do instead: Use natural peanut butter with few ingredients—preferably only peanuts (and perhaps a little salt). Steer clear of versions containing added hydrogenated oils, sugars, and artificial preservatives.Mistake 2: Eating It Straight From the JarWe've all been there—taking a spoonful (or three) of peanut butter right out of the jar. But it's all too easy to overestimate how much you're taking in. Two tablespoons is a typical serving, which has approximately 190 calories. When you eat it right out of the jar, it's all too easy to take several servings and add a huge number of calories to your diet.What to do instead: Measure your portions carefully. Stick to two tablespoons per serving and use a spoon rather than eating straight from the container.Mistake 3: Always Pairing Peanut Butter With Jelly or ChocolateTraditional peanut butter combinations such as PB&J sandwiches or chocolate and peanut butter can be tasty, but they are full of secret sugars. Regular jelly is full of added sugars, and chocolate-flavored peanut butter snacks can easily transform a nutritious snack into a calorie-laden treat.What to do instead: Combine peanut butter with better options such as fresh fruit, whole-grain bread, or Greek yogurt. You can also experiment by combining it with other savory foods like soy sauce, lime juice, and ginger as a healthy salad dressing.How to Add Peanut Butter Into a Healthy Diet?To maximize the weight-loss benefits of peanut butter, patience and restraint are important. Here are some intelligent ways to have it without ruining your progress:Make it a protein boost: Spread peanut butter on whole-grain bread or add it to oatmeal to satisfy you longer.Create a high-protein dip: Combine peanut butter with Greek yogurt for a nutrient-rich fruit dip.Boost your smoothies: Mix peanut butter with banana, spinach, and almond milk to make a nutritious smoothie.Mix with homemade energy bites: Mix peanut butter with oats, chia seeds, and honey for a snack that is good for you.Add to the top of meals: Spread a thin layer on rice cakes, or drizzle over roasted vegetables for a flavor boost.Is Peanut Butter Good for Muscle Building and Weight Maintenance?If your aim is to gain muscle weight instead of weight loss, peanut butter can still be an important part of your diet. It delivers a healthy amount of protein—eight grams per two-tablespoon serving—albeit not as dense as others such as chicken, fish, or protein bars. Its calorie density, though, does make it a suitable choice for when one is required to take more in without taking on large quantities of food.For athletes and bodybuilders, peanut butter is a great source of energy. The mix of protein, good fats, and carbohydrates gives the body sustained fuel for exercise and muscle repair.Peanut butter can be a great help in weight reduction, muscle development, and health overall—if taken properly. Opting for the right kind, keeping portion control in check, and combining it with nutrient foods are key to getting the best out of it.