Certain health problems can force us to give up certain products in our food diet. For example, people with diabetes are advised to avoid foods that are high in sugar or saturated fat.
According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), in a 100-gram serving of peanut butter, you'll find 22.5 grams of protein, 4.8 grams of fiber, and a host of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and more. Rich in antioxidants, healthy fats and carbohydrates, peanut butter can be delicious and nutritious. But, there are some cases in which peanut butter can be harmful to the health of those who consume it.
Specifically, peanut butter can turn into a choking hazard for people diagnosed with a condition known as dysphagia. A person with dysphagia has trouble swallowing. It most often occurs in adults and the elderly, but the condition can come from damage to the nerves or muscles in the throat, blockages from esophageal tumors, as well as inflammation and a host of other causes.
Experts say that people with this diagnosis should avoid consuming peanut butter to minimize possible choking incidents. They point out how the sticky nature of peanut butter can make it easy for it to get stuck in the airways and then obstruct breathing.
If you believe you may be experiencing signs of dysphagia, talk to your doctor about professional advice including eating smaller portions, chewing food at a slower pace, cutting back on caffeine and alcohol, etc.
Source: Health Digest
