Nuts are Nuts!

When you think of nuts, you might just think of tiny things that you throw at birds to get them to come closer to you. Or you might think of those crunchy little things inside of candy bars. You might also think of nuts as being obstacles in your way from the little chocolate candies in a trail mix. But in actuality, nuts are delicious little nuggets of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. You might even eat more nuts than you realize, because peanut butter is made from peanuts (they’re technically a legume, but the point still stands.) With an incredible flavor and a “nut”ritous, creamy center, it’s definitely worth trying to include them in your everyday diet.

What kinds of nuts are there?

Are you trying to eat more nuts, but you suddenly find out that you get an allergic reaction from eating some kinds? Well, do not fear! There are literally hundreds of different varieties of nuts. Peanuts are an extremely common allergen, so peanut butter may not be included on your sandwich along with jelly. But, there are plenty of other nut butters to choose from, including cashew, almond, Brazil nut, macadamia nut, pecan, hazelnut, and walnut butter! There are plenty of other nuts that come from all over the world, all in their own unique shapes, sizes and tastes. Pine nuts are tiny and flavorful, while Brazil nuts are enormous and a little bitter. You may also find pistachios in your mixed nuts, which have a slight savory flavor to them. With all of these delicious nut options, there must be a reason so many people eat them!

Why are nuts so good for you?

Nuts are one of the most nutrient-dense foods out there. They’re full of goodies like vitamins, minerals, protein, healthy fatty acids, and fiber. According to https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/, nuts contain phytochemicals that act as anti-oxidants, which helps to keep your cells clean from nasty free-radicals. They also contains B vitamins and vitamin E, minerals like potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, and Iron. In just one ounce of almonds, which is about a handful, there’s 4 grams of fiber! This can help you stay regular and perform at your best. They also contains 50% of your daily Vitamin E need, which is important for your skin, brain, vision, and reproductive system. Since these delicious, crunchy little things are so good for you, you should really try eat more nuts!

How can I get more nuts in my diet?

If you’re trying to get more nuts in your diet to earn the plenty of health benefits that they offer, consider all of the different ways you can consume them. Nuts are commonly made into nut butters. Nut butters are made by first roasting nuts and grinding them into a paste, then sometimes salt, sugar, and palm oil are added, which can negate some of the health benefits of the nuts. So, when buying nut butter, the best kind you can buy is %100 Natural, with no added salt, sugar, or oil. Roasted nuts can top a salad, giving a nice crunchy contrast and giving a great toasty flavor that anyone could enjoy. They’re also commonly put in a stir fry to give it a nutty, crunchy burst of flavor. Nuts can also be used in many desert recipes. Baklava is a pastry that’s made with crushed pistachios and honey, and it’s a staple in the middle east. Pecan pie is a popular dessert to bring at Thanksgiving. Muffins, cakes, and cookies can also have nuts added to elevate them to a new level of goodness. You can even top your ice cream with crushed up nuts! Nuts work so well in deserts because they are actually a little bit sweet themselves, and adding them to deserts brings out that sweetness. Sprinkle some chopped and toasted nuts on your oatmeal, or stir in some nut butter. It will give it some contrast, and make it irresistibly creamy!

With all of their health benefits and the many different ways to enjoy them, why not eat more nuts? They’ll make you healthier, happier, and will help you succeed in your journey to eat “nut”ritously!