Going Nutty: Health Benefits of Nuts

That's right people I said nuts!Many of you out there think you can't eat nuts because they are high in calories or they just have way to much fat content.Let's take another look at the all mighty nut and it's health benefits and those of you that are doubtful just may change your mind (if only a little bit).
Starting off scientifically,researchers have found that people who eat nuts on a regular basis have lower risk of heart disease.While nuts are one of the best plant sources high in protein,fiber and antioxidants they have other health benefits that many people don't know about.So let's shed a little light on this "nutty" situation.

There are several beneficial nuts all containing antioxidants vitamin E and selenium both of which help protect against cancer and other chronic illnesses.Brazil nuts help play a vital role in preventing breast cancer cells because of the amount of selenium that they contain.Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that helps to neutralize free radicals in the body.Hazelnuts are one of the richest in vitamin E also a high antioxidant,while pistachios and cashews are high in fiber and iron that is needed for the red pigment in blood.

There have actually been 7 kinds of nuts that have been approved by the FDA as part of the RDA almonds,hazelnuts,peanuts,pecans,pine nuts,pistachios and walnuts all containing less than 4g of saturated fat per serving however there are a few other nuts that offer some of the same health benefits including flax seeds,pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds.As with anything though moderation is the key.

Ok,let's focus on the fat content because this is what many people tend to dwell on when it comes to nuts.Fat content found in nuts are mostly unsaturated fats containing Omega 3 and 6 considered "the good fats"."The good fats" help to reduce irregular heart rhythms,triglyceride,growth of fatty plaques in the arteries and can cut the risk of cancer such as prostate and skin cancer and studies are underway to that could prove to benefit memory loss and dementia.

Here are some tips for buying and storing nuts.Buying whole nuts in their shells is a less expensive way to purchase nuts and they can last up to a year if stored in a cool dry place.Shelled nuts could last up to about six months if kept in a freezer.If you purchase nuts that are sliced or chopped they should be used soon because they do turn bad faster,buying for convenience isn't a long term storage for nuts.Always discard any nuts that are dark or look moldy in appearance.

But,are we done yet?No way,there are more benefits to be had eating nuts.Nuts can actually help in weight loss and can help to improve your health by lowering blood fat levels as well as stimulating a "feel good" hormone in the brain called serotonin that can help ward off depression and help to promote a relaxed state.With all these benefits I think I just may have to go out and buy myself some nuts.Just keep in mind though to follow the guidelines,don't overeat them just about a handful will do.