In recent times, the benefits of nuts have come under the limelight by nutritionists and dieticians, alike. Each nut possesses their individual set of unusual health benefits. Some general benefits of nuts which have been recognized includes the ability of nuts to help battle and protect one against heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity and weight control. Yes, the weight conscious will be thrilled to hear that recent research suggests that nuts may help keep off a few pounds from the waistline, provided they are consumed properly.

Effectively, nuts have earned the right to secure a tiny, yet valuable part of your diet. The emphasis on the word ‘tiny’ because the benefits of nuts will only be fully secured if they are consumed in moderation and moderation alone. So go get your bowls of nuts ready and nibble (slowly) while you read this article that details the diverse health benefits of nuts.

Walnuts

When talking about the benefits of nuts, walnuts almost immediately surface to mind. The delightful set of the diverse health benefits of this brain shaped nutritional genius include the following;

• Anti-cancer properties:  Walnuts are a handsome source of antioxidants and anti inflammatory properties which helps minimize the cancer risk which may be caused by free radical damage to the cells/oxidative stress or inflammation.
• Heart Health: Extensive research has been conducted on the role of walnuts in relation to cardiovascular health.
• Omega-3s: Walnuts are a source of Omega 3 fatty acids which help protect cardiovascular health, prevent/treat depression and mood swings and may help prevent macular degeneration.
• Diabetes: Walnuts may help prevent the high possibility of cardiovascular trouble in type 2 diabetes patients.
• Weight Control: Nibbling on walnuts may help control food cravings and sustain hunger which could help stop you from consuming extra calories.

Almonds

Almonds contain an extremely rich fiber content, which contributes to benefits of Heart health and for preventing Colon Cancer. Almonds also contain Selenium, a measurable amount of Vitamin E, calcium which helps stabilize the gastrointestinal tract, and even helps keep cholesterol in check. The health benefits of almonds don’t end there. They too, happen to keep your hunger sustained, therefore, treating/ preventing obesity or unhealthy weight gain and helps provide you with loads of energy to get you throughout the day.

Brazil Nuts

Brazil nuts are believed to help reduce the risk of breast cancer due to the presence of selenium. Brazil nuts also hold handsome amounts of protein and vitamin e, fiber, niacin, magnesium and copper. They therefore help increase bone health and also help prevent osteoporosis all the while maintaining and improving the integrity of cell membranes.

Pecans

When talking about the benefits of nuts, pecans don’t immediately come to mind. Pecans are naturally high in unsaturated fat and low in unhealthy saturated fat therefore making it an ideal food in fighting against high levels of Cholesterol. Also, due to pecans rich antioxidants content, they help prevent various types of cancers, and also help keep skin beautiful as they rid the body of Free Radicals that cause Oxidative Stress.

Pistachios

Pistachios, according to research contain the highest LDL lowering plant sterol therefore being another cholesterol lowering food. Pistachios also contain a high content of potassium, especially when compared to other nuts. They also contain important carotenoids such as Zeaxanthin and Lutein which help promote and maintain eye health by increasing good vision.