Walnuts can clearly earn their title as a super food. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, magnesium and antioxidants. They also are one of the best plant sources of protein, and they contain healthy fats, including Omega 3, that have shown to lower LDL cholesterol. Walnuts are also champions at lowering heart diseases risks by improving blood vessels elasticity and plaque accumulation. This super nut also plays a role in lowering the C-reactive protein (CRP).
Oppositely to some other nuts, walnuts are among the 7 approved by the FDA as the only nuts containing less than 4g of saturated fat per 50g. The other nuts falling into this category are almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, pecans, pine nuts and pistachios.
But while walnuts are a real superfood, they also are very caloric. The best way to reap their health benefits without adding too much calories to your diet is to eat them as a replacement of other foods that might be less healthy, like meat or cheese. If you’re having troubles keeping your calories in control, I would however not recommend to eat more than about 20 walnut halves per day.
Walnuts can be added to your diet in so many different ways. Here are some simple ideas:
- Eat some out of their shells as a snack
- Add some to your salads or pastas instead of meat or cheese
- Start your day with a walnut filled oatmeal or breakfast cereals
- Include them in your baked goods recipes such as cookies, muffins and dessert breads
How do you enjoy walnuts? Are they already in your plate?