High in fiber and vitamins, nuts are a nutritious and filling snack food. Consider these seven nuts for a healthy and tasty addition to your diet.
Nuts often get a bad rap for their fat content, but they’re actually considered a healthy food if eaten in moderation. According to MayoClinic.com, “People who eat nuts as part of a heart-healthy diet can lower the LDL, low-density lipoprotein or ‘bad’ cholesterol level in their blood. High LDL is one of the primary causes of heart disease.”
Nuts also travel well for a healthy on-the-go snack and are relatively inexpensive. Integrate these nuts into your diet for a healthy alternative to high-calorie sugary snacks.
Pecans
Pecans provide healthy fats and aid in reducing the risk of heart disease. Consider adding pecans to yogurt, fresh salads or cereal. For an inspiring salad idea, try this Fig Pecan and Blue Cheese Salad!
Pine Nuts
Pine nuts pack a punch with their high vitamin A and lutein content, which are essential nutrients for healthy vision. Add vitamin C with this healthy recipe for Lemon and Pine Nut Hummus.
Walnuts
Walnuts are significantly high in Omega-3 fatty acids. Studies also show that walnut consumption reduced breast cancer risk by one-half in laboratory mice, according to a report in the journal Nutrition and Cancer by Marshall University researchers. View several healthy walnut-inspired recipes with these Good-For-You Walnut Recipes.
Cashews
Next time you’re craving a crunchy snack, throw out those greasy potato chips and snack on some crunchy sweet cashews. Cashews are high in magnesium, which plays an important role in maintaining a healthy blood pressure. A great recipe for a healthy alternative to cheese is this Easy Vegan Cashew Cheese.
Pistachios
According to the Pistachio Health Institute, “Pistachios are an excellent source of copper and manganese, and a good source of phosphorus. They’re also an excellent source of vitamin B6, offering 20% of the Daily Value per serving.” Add a healthy twist to your next shrimp dish with this quick and easy recipe for Pistachio-crusted Shrimp with Paprika.
Almonds
Almonds are a powerhouse of nutrients. According to MayoClinic.com, almonds contain more calcium than any other type of nut and are high in vitamin E. Make your next dessert a healthy treat with this Avocado, Chocolate and Almond Trifle.
Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts are also a powerhouse of vitamins. According to OregonHazelnut.org, “Hazelnuts rank #1 among tree nuts in folate content.” Folate plays a role in reducing the risk of birth defects. Hazelnuts are also high in fiber, helping to keep those hunger cravings under control. Add some crunch to your next salad by tossing it with hazelnuts. A super-healthy salad idea is this Spinach and Pear Salad with Gorgonzola Cheese that is tossed with toasted hazelnuts.
More nutty recipes
Apricot pistachio white chocolate bark
Pecan-crusted catfish
Raspberry, peach, almond & pine nut smoothie
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