Nuts have been considered extremely healthy for the body for a long time because of all their good qualities. They’re rich in antioxidants and minerals. They’re also great to consume if you want plenty of healthy fat and a perfect aid for fighting for your cholesterol, blood pressure, concentration, and even your mood! According to dietitian and nutritionist Brianna Fear-Keen, they’re also great additives for loads of meals!
The Popular Choice – Almonds
As is clear to everyone, almonds are perhaps the most popular and affordable among all nuts. And they’re also incredibly healthy, according to dietitians. They are rich in fiber, magnesium, Vitamin E, and manganese – to name a few of their health benefits. Although they may have higher fat content, they boost immunity, help with muscle recovery, and reduce cholesterol. The recommended intake is about 30 grams of almonds a day.
Pecans – Rich in Zinc and Protein
Pecans are a lot like almonds – they are also plenty healthy as they have a high fiber content and are rich in calcium, zinc, protein, carbohydrates, and manganese. And, as is known, zinc is particularly beneficial for the hormonal health of men and women. Since they are also high in triglyceride levels, they help lower the risk of heart disease and are great for wound healing and recovery.
Cashews as a Great Mood Booster
Sometimes our mood is not quite as up there as we’d want it to be. That’s when cashews come right in! They are among the nuts perfect for a mood boost. Dietitian Isabelle Goodwin, who works primarily in the mental health and eating disorder area, says that cashews have the highest protein content of tryptophan, which is an amino acid forming serotonin – the happiness hormone! Cashews can elevate your mood and help with concentration and even memory.
Walnuts – Power for the Brain
Isabelle Goodwin explains that if someone wants to improve their brain and eye health, they should take advantage of walnuts. Omega 3 fats are probably the most important for our health, and none of us get enough, but walnuts are a great source. And if you’re a person who doesn’t enjoy the taste of fish, which is also rich in Omega 3, walnuts are a great alternative. If you want to get enough, a handful three or four times a week would be the perfect amount!
Brazil Nuts Against Heart Disease
Since the Brazil nut is a lot larger than all the others on the list – a small amount is just enough to reap its wonderful benefits. This helps protect the body from heart disease and even cancer since it’s high in a mineral called selenium. Isabelle explains that people suffering from thyroid disease should take advantage of the nut since their bodies suffer from the lack of the mineral. But there is no need to go overboard in the amount you take – about two a day would be perfect for the body!
As if people didn’t already know, nuts of all sorts and kinds are a great source of beneficial minerals and components that are healthy for the human body. The next time you’re looking for a snack, you should think about having a nut or two. You’ll soon figure out that your body will feel much better internally with regular nut intake!