More and more research findings are pointing towards nuts as an essential in the quest for a healthier heart. Till recently nuts have been blacklisted due to their high content of fat. Yet this fat, specifically mono-unsaturated and polyunsaturated fat, is now being proved to be associated with heart health. Both of these unsaturated fats have the ability to reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol. (read more)
While nuts tend to be heart healthy because of their high antioxidant content, the almond packs the most wallop. Closely related to the peach, apricot and cherry, the edible seed of the almond tree is a great source of vitamin E, magnesium and potassium. Almonds help combat cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis and diabetes. One study, in the Journal of Nutrition, showed that flavonoids in the skin of the almond work in concert with the vitamin E found in the meat of the nut to more than double the antioxidant punch either delivers separately. (read more)
Nuts: traditionally, they’re part of many of the snacks we eat, and they’re an integral ingredient in many cookies, breads and other baked goods. In recent years, nuts have also been used to garnish salads, add protein and flavor to vegetable side dishes, and are a featured part of stir-fries and other ethnic dishes.
According to Hersheys.com, nuts have been, and continue to be, a staple food for many world cultures. They’re known as tree nuts and include almonds, walnuts, Brazil nuts, hazelnuts (also called filberts), macadamia nuts, pistachios and pine nuts. Peanuts, although actually legumes, often are grouped in with tree nuts and may be eaten raw or prepared in dishes, just like tree nuts, the Web site explained.
Nuts have also come into the spotlight in recent years because of their nutritional benefits, which are listed in general nutrition and health information on the Hershey.com Web site. Nuts are part of the U.S. Food Guide Pyramid, in the “Meats, Poultry, Fish, Beans Eggs and Nut group,” and one-third cup of nuts may be substituted for a one-ounce serving of cooked lean meat. Nuts are loaded with folic acid and vitamins E and B6, and minerals magnesium, copper, zinc, selenium and potassium. Although nuts are full of fat, that fat is unsaturated and may actually decrease levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels. A storehouse of vitamins, minerals, unsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids, nuts have been included in the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which recommends four to five servings of nuts a week to lower cholesterol and high blood pressure. (read more)
Some scientists are beginning to think that eating certain fruits and nuts may delay old-age problems like Alzheimer’s disease. (read more)
Pecans, loved for their sweet crunch and undeniable flavor, are coming out of their shells and gaining recognition as a healthy addition to a well-balanced diet. Once thought of as an indulgence, clinical research findings show that pecans can be enjoyed as a healthy snack year-round. (read more)
