Nuts have always been considered a healthy snack alternative to chips and other processed foods that are also great for on-the-go. Whether you’re a die hard peanut fan or you swear by your cashew butter, each nut is very different in their health benefits. Nevertheless, there is one certain downside to all nuts. They have a high calorie and fat count, meaning you shouldn’t “go nuts” by eating many of them at once. However, when eaten in moderation, the right nuts can help you get on track to achieving your healthy lifestyle goals.
Best Nuts For Low-Calorie Diets
If you are trying to reduce your calorie count, almonds, cashews, and pistachios are your best options. These nuts have the lowest amount of calories per ounce, at 160 calories. If you’re not sure how much an ounce of each is, that is equivalent to approximately 23 almonds, 26 cashews, and 49 pistachios. So if you want to feel like you are eating more, pistachios are your best bet. Just remember to look for raw versions of these nuts. Many “roasted” types have lots of hydrogenated oils and fats added, which pack on the calories.
Best Nut For Heart Health
All nuts contain some amount of good monounsaturated fats, but walnuts are the real winner with having high amounts of ALA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid. Omega-3s are important for heart health, for they reduce heart arrhythmias and inflammation! In fact, eating several walnuts a day can help to lower your risk for heart disease. This is a great preventative measure if the illness runs in your family.
Best Nut To Boost Your Brain
For all peanut lovers, you’ll be happy to know that this legume has fats and minerals that are necessary for brain development. The mineral folate is even known to protect the brain from cognitive decline later in life. A one ounce serving, which is about 28 peanuts, also packs 7 grams of protein. Now that’s a powerful combo!
Photos: Freepik and Pixabay
