Nuts about Nuts

A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine about the benefits of nut consumption revealed that a handful of nuts a day could decrease your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer and help you live longer. A serving size of nuts is just 1 ounce. The information came from two extensive studies following more than 120,000 people over multiple decades. The studies showed that those who eat nuts at least once every day had a 20% lower death rate than those who did not. The nut type was insignificant, and benefits were noted in those who ate peanuts or assorted tree nuts.

While many people may believe that consuming nuts could lead to obesity, studies have shown the opposite to be true. Those who consume more nuts daily had a lower rate of obesity, less weight gain, and reduced waist circumferences. Some of the health benefits of eating nuts are likely due to the nutrients that nuts contain. They have unsaturated fatty acids, high levels of protein, and vitamins including Folate, Niacin, and Vitamin E. Phytochemicals stored in nuts may also provide beneficial anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic and antioxidant properties. Macadamia nuts contain Omega 3 and Omega 7 fatty acids, and the benefits of these fatty acids. In addition, some reports have associated those who consume them with improved cholesterol levels, beneficial cardiac effects, and lower levels of inflammation.