Go Nuts: Which Nut Is the Healthiest?
Nuts of all kinds are a healthy snack that have excellent nutritional properties. But is one nut better than all the rest? Here are five of the healthiest nut in the world.
Almonds
Almonds are well known to be a super-healthy snack, and are a great choice whenever hunger pangs strike. Almonds are one of the best nuts to eat if you are diabetic or want to help regulate your blood sugar. Almonds can help prevent blood sugar spikes when eaten throughout the day, helping to keep blood sugar levels on an even keel.
Walnuts
Walnuts may very well be the healthiest of all nuts, simply because it is so rich in Omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3's have been studied extensively, and have been found to reduce the risk of cancer, bowel problems, and even depression. Since your body doesn't make its own Omega 3 fatty acids, it's important to include them in your diet regularly.
Cashews
Cashews are lower in fat than most other nuts, but the fat they do contain is healthy monounsaturated fat that is good for the heart. They are rich in magnesium, which has been shown to promote many functions of the body, including muscle, nerve, and bone function. A single ounce of cashews can help you meet 20% of the recommended daily dose of magnesium.
Pecans
Pecans have the highest levels of antioxidants among nuts, which can help prevent certain types of heart disease. The antioxidants in pecans can also help lower cancer risk and Alzheimer's disease.
Peanuts
Surprisingly, peanuts make the list of the healthiest nuts. Although you may be tempted to pick the peanuts out of your deluxe trail mix, here's a reason not to:
Like all nuts, peanuts are rich in monounsaturated fats. However, peanuts are also full of healthy vitamin E, folate and niacin. A recent study involving 22 subjects suggests that peanuts (and peanut butter) can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by as much as 21%.
There's no doubt about it: Nuts are one of the healthiest snacks you can indulge in. Instead of feeling guilty about getting your snack on, go nuts and incorporate a variety of healthy, antioxidant rich, and delicious nuts into your diet. Sun Vending offers numerous healthy, nut-filled snacks for your convenience, including trail mixes, granola bars, and more. Whether you're enjoying a handful of nuts on their own, or as part of another snack, you can feel good about going nuts with your diet!