Try These Safe and Healthy Alternatives to Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is delicious, but can wreak havoc on anyone who suffers from peanut allergies or anyone who is on a weight loss program. Peanuts are nutritious, but peanut butter has a lot of added fat and salt, which are not conducive to losing weight. Peanut allergies are one of the most common allergies and they can be very dangerous to those who are allergic...even fatal. Because of this, some doctors are recommending that pregnant and nursing women as well as children under the age of 3 avoid eating peanuts or products containing peanuts.

The good news is that there are healthy, safe alternatives for those who are not able to eat peanut butter. Here are a few of the best:

1) Light Cream cheese. Cream cheese has a texture much like peanut butter, making it easy to spread on bread or crackers. Add a bit of jam of jelly, and you have a sandwich that is tasty and delicious without having to worry an allergic reaction. Light cream cheese is lower in fat and calories than regular cream cheese, so it will work with your weight loss plan, as well.

2) Bean dips. Bean dip is high in protein just as peanut butter is. It is highly spreadable, delicious and can be used as a dip, a spread or in a casserole.

3) Nut butter. There are many different kinds of nut butters currently available on the market. Almond butter, cashew butter, and hazelnut butter are some of these substitutes that offer many of the same qualities as peanut butter. Be careful in using these, however, because some people who are allergic to peanut butter are also allergic to other nut butters.

4) Soy and sunflower butter. These butters are a safe and healthy alternative to those who cannot eat peanut butter. Be careful, however, if you suffer from soy allergies.

5) Hummus. Hummus is a high protein sesame bean spread that is popular among vegetarians. It can be purchased at the market or it can be made according to your own personal tastes.

6) Soft cheese spreads (such as Laughing Cow Light Swiss Cheese) is a great substitute. The cheese in only 35 calories a wedge and is great on crackers or bread. It is also good on celery.

If you are unable to eat peanut butter due to health or dietary reasons, try some of these safe and healthy alternatives. Chances are you won't miss eating peanut butter at all.