Nuts in our diet

Nuts are one of the most complete food sources in nature. Almonds, peanuts, cashews, pistachios, walnuts, hazelnuts, pine nuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds and more, have many calories because of their high fat content. But it is odd how a food with such high fat content has proven to have so many health benefits.

Leading the category as best nuts are almonds, walnuts and cashews, but all nuts contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential in the human diet. Including nuts in our daily diet – providing adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids – appears to reduce bad cholesterol and cholesterol all together, decreases triglycerides and helps the development of youths’ skin.

Also, nuts contain significant amounts of magnesium and proteins, necessary ingredients for individuals who regularly exercise. Tryptophane, an ingredient prevalant in nuts, is a substance responsible for the production of certain neurotransmitters that enhance ones mood. So, when it comes to our day-to-day and the pressures faced by modern man, nuts are an important food that can help us retain a positive mood through our diet.

So, we consume nuts, by integrating them into recipes or snack at work and at home, but are mindful of the amount, a small handful of unsalted nuts will suffice.