Incorporating nutritious elements into your daily diet often starts with small yet powerful choices, and nuts emerge as nature's treasure trove of health benefits. Bursting with essential nutrients, healthy fats, and a wealth of vitamins and minerals, nuts present a delicious and versatile option to elevate your nutritional intake. From the delightful crunch of almonds to the rich flavors of walnuts and the satisfying goodness of pistachios, these miniature marvels not only tantalize the taste buds but also offer a myriad of health advantages. Let's delve into a selection of nuts, each a miniature nutritional powerhouse, ready to enrich your diet with both flavor and wellness.
# AlmondsAlmonds are sources of unsaturated fats, high-quality vegetable protein, vitamin E, fiber, minerals and phenolic compounds. It is always advised to first soak almonds in water before consuming them as soaked almonds are more beneficial. This is because the peels are said to contain tannins that inhibit the absorption of nutrients. Start you morning by having a handful of almonds to get your health dose.
# WalnutsAlso known as brain food, daily consumption of walnuts are said to help in healthy ageing, while also improving blood cholesterol levels and maintaining heart health. You can soak walnuts in water too before consuming, or munch on them directly. They make for a great snacking option and to notch up flavour in salads and stir-fries.
# PistachiosNeed a good dose of antioxidants? You can turn to pistas or pistachios for a health fix. Besides, it is also said to help in boosting the immune system and in keeping the heart healthy if consumed in moderation. For those mid-meal cravings, snack on a handful of pistachios but make sure they are not the salted ones. You can also add it to a bowl of yoghurt and top it with some jaggery to enjoy a healthy dessert.
# Cashew nutsCashew nuts, popularly known as kaju in India, is widely consumed in various ways – be it in snacks, sweet dishes, curries or just as it is. Cashews are known for their health properties, thanks to the presence of monounsaturated oleic acid and omega-3 alpha linolenic acid (ALA) and other healthy vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of good fats but should be consumed it limited amounts.
# HazelnutsSay hazelnut and one can’t help but think of creamy Nutella that is made from this rich and sweet tasting nut. It is a great source of antioxidants, good fats, vitamin E and minerals such as copper and magnesium, all of which are known to reduce blood pressure and inflammation.
# PeanutsWho doesn’t love munching on peanuts? What makes this commonly available nut a hot favourite is of course is delicious flavour, but the good part is that is also comes loaded with health benefiting properties. Peanuts are rich in monounsaturated fats, vitamin E and B complex, and minerals like manganese. They also contain antioxidants that help boost the immune system and keep a check on cardiovascular diseases.