Aug 06 2009
The Top 5 Healthiest Nuts
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For many years, nuts have gotten a bad rap for being high in fat. But in reality, nuts are a vital part of our diet, as they are high in monounsaturated fats that actually keep us heart-healthy and disease-free.
Healthy nuts are also great sources of protein, minerals and other life-enhancing nutrients. Scientific studies now show that different types of nuts and seeds can actually prevent heart disease, weight gain and the accumulation of LDL cholesterol.
All nuts should be organic, eaten in their raw state, and not irradiated or roasted. Here is my list of the five healthiest nuts you should add to your diet. (In no particular order)
1. Almonds
A small handful of almonds gives you almost 25% percent of your daily needs for magnesium, and more bone-strengthening calcium as an equal amount of cow milk.
They are also high in many antioxidants, such as vitamin E and selenium. Studies show that almonds may play and important role in preventing colon cancer due to their high fiber content. Almonds also help us to actually lower negative forms of cholesterol in the blood stream.
2. Walnuts
One of the best nuts on earth, walnuts may actually increase our brain function. Studies show that consumption of walnuts is related to heart-health, better cognitive function, as well as the reduction of skin and bone conditions. Packed full of an antioxidant known as ellagic acid, researchers have shown that walnuts contain 16 disease-fighting polyphenols.
3. Pecans
Recent clinical studies show that this nut significantly lowers cholesterol. Pecans are also a great source of twenty essential vitamins and minerals.
4. Brazil Nuts
Also high in heart-healthy nutrients and minerals like copper, niacin, vitamin E, fiber, magnesium, and selenium, studies on Brazil nuts show that this protein-packed snack may aid in the prevention of breast cancer.
5. Cedar Nuts
Siberian Cedar nuts, originating in Russia, hold 70% of the essential amino acids that the body needs. They also contain high amounts of Vitamin A, B and D, as well as% tocopherol-containing Vitamin E. This exotic nut also contains a special form of Vitamin P, a vital fatty acid similar to fish oil, which is known for reducing the amount of LDL cholesterol, keeping the arterial walls free of disease-causing inflammation and plaque.
Raw nuts are a big part of my diet and pack the most energy of any other food. They make a healthy snack that is low in calories. Healthy nuts are definitely a great addition to your diet.
February 9th, 2010 at 1:31 pm
Brazil nuts are very healthy, and not so easy to find. Its a shame because more people should eat them as opposed to the other junk food that’s out there….
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September 19th, 2009 at 12:06 pm
I love CASHEW nuts
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September 6th, 2009 at 6:48 pm
Nuts are too good for health. But, you can’t eat more on a day. It might cause some ill effects if you take more nuts. Otherwise, when you take up two nuts for a day, your health will be good.. I love wallnuts..
Angeline @ marcus evans scam
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September 4th, 2009 at 5:07 am
Pistachios and Pine nuts are missing in this list.
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September 2nd, 2009 at 3:33 pm
Raw nuts are also a great source of essential fatty acids like Omega-3. Wonderful for your health!
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August 28th, 2009 at 10:04 pm
This is a great list of nuts, I’ve also never had cedar nuts but it sounds like I need to give them a try. Raw almonds are also great, so are brazil nuts.
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August 28th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
what about shelled Hemp Seeds? Try reading up on these amazing natural food… you might be suprised how good they are for you. they are a good source of EFA’s (essential fatty acids) and help a multitude of conditions.
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August 28th, 2009 at 2:25 pm
Have never even seen cedar nuts! Will have to try them out.
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August 28th, 2009 at 7:01 am
Generally i take almonds because it provides clarity and shine to skin.. The Cedar nuts are my favorite.. Even in chocolates, i love taking up almond and cedar chocolates..
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August 28th, 2009 at 6:23 am
I have been munching on a bag of almonds all week – great to see that they are so good for me!
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August 27th, 2009 at 8:35 pm
I’m so glad that you mentioned Brazil nuts. They are my favorite nuts and they really are healthy for you. The only problem is that brazil nuts are sometimes hard to find. Luckily, there is a Whole Foods near my house that sell raw brazil nuts, as well as other nuts, so I pick those up alot.
Brazil nuts are my favorite healthy snack at work. I’ll have to try Cedar nuts.
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