Recent studies have unearthed some fascinating information about nuts. Before 1990, they were thought of as nothing more than high-calorie, high-fat food that may cause weight-gain and potential heart problems. Over a decade later our views have completely changed, and we have a much better understanding of nuts, now recognizing them as a wonderful food with many benefits for the human body that cannot be ignored.
Yes, nuts do contain plenty of fat and calories, - About 200 calories per ounce – but this is a rather deceptive number, as they aren’t nearly as fattening as they might seem on the surface. Almost all of the fat nuts contain are either polyunsaturated or monounsaturated. – Two forms of fat that not only don’t contribute nearly as much to weight gain as others, but actually can help to lower LDL cholesterol levels! And considering today’s emphasis on eating heart-healthy foods, this is a great find. Studies have shown that nuts are actually very good for the heart, and the general consensus is that a person who has a diet that includes eating nuts on a regular basis has a 35% lower risk of having heart disease in the future!
Nuts are plentiful sources of protein. Proteins are necessary for the body’s day-to-day function, and are also difficult to obtain in a vegetarian diet, because most plants only contain pieces of proteins. Nuts, however, are sources of complete proteins, making them a wonderful addition to vegetarian diet, but also ideal for a cardiovascular-minded diet. Unlike meats and other conventional producers of protein, nuts are actually beneficial for the heart instead of being damaging.
Nuts are terrific sources of energy. Protein is an important ingredient for energy, and when combined with the other minerals in nuts make them perfect for providing longer, more constant energy levels. In addition to proteins, nuts also happen to rich in the powerful antioxidants selenium and vitamin E. Anti-oxidants have recently been identified as having powerful anti-aging effects on the body due to their ability to block the damage caused by free-radicals, substances that contribute to early aging.
Studies have shown that, interestingly, all forms of nuts seem to have the same benefits for the body. While there is no evidence pointing to any particular nut being the most beneficial, the most effective nuts are generally believed to be cashews, almonds and peanuts. A healthy amount to be consumed on a daily basis is about one to two ounces. This provides the body with the maximum amount of benefit, while cutting down as much as possible the high calorie levels. The only downside to nuts, in fact, seems to be that it can be difficult to eat only a handful or so a day; most people instead seem to continue munching on them once they’ve passed the two ounce-a-day limit.
Overall, nuts are a powerful food that is packed with surprising and astounding benefits. Their ability to reduce the risk of heart disease while protecting against aging and providing solid energy levels makes them a highly desired health food, as long as a person keeps their intake levels low. They are still loaded with calories, and can contribute to weight gain if high levels are consumed on a regular basis. If you keep your intake down, however, you’ll notice remarkable improvements in your health, and you can rest easier at night knowing that you are helping your heart and bettering your chances at escaping cardiovascular disease.
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