Choosing Nuts for Nutrition
Keep almonds handy at all times. Almonds contain a healthy dose of Vitamin E, a significant amount of calcium, and plenty of the good kinds of fats. Have them on hand for a quick snack whenever you have the munchies. The crunch and the taste is satisfying and will help keep you away from carbohydrate-laden sweets. No salt added is best, but if you need a dash, go with the lightly salted brands.
Add macadamia nuts to your breakfast. It's true that macadamias have a lot of fat content, but the majority of it is monounsaturated fat - in other words, the good kind of fat. These can help lower triglyceride levels as well as bring LDL and HDL cholesterol levels into healthy ranges.
Grab a handful of walnuts. With plenty of omega-3 alpha-linolec acid, these can help lower your risk of heart problems as well as boost your body's natural ability to deal with inflammation. Munch on a handful of these before you give in to that urge for a thick steak.
Don't forget the pistachio nuts. They are a great source of lutein and zeaxanthin, essential for maintaining good eye health. Since they also contain protein, they are perfect for a quick snack after exercise, since they help your muscles to recover and refuel quicker.
Have some peanuts. The main benefit of peanuts have to do with the protein content. Unlike some other nuts, they will not do much to help with cholesterol levels and don't have a lot to offer in the way of vitamin content. While there is some fiber, there is not really enough present to make it worth your while. Still, a handful of peanuts before a workout or some other physical exertion will give you an energy boost that is much better than most sports drinks.
Tips & Warnings
Keep your consumption to a handful at one sitting. As with most things, nuts provide more value to your body when consumed in moderation. Hold the salt and butter. Yes, they make the nuts more tasty, but they also add calories, fats and other elements that you really don't need.
Published by Malcolm Tatum
Twelve years in the textile industry, seventeen years in the teleconferencing industry. Content writer for sales collateral regarding teleconferencing services. Fourteen years as a lay minister and devotio... View profile
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