9 Different Types of Nuts and their Benefits

What are the Benifits of Eating Nuts?

Nuts are a good source of nutrients and can have several health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet. Some of the benefits of eating different types of nuts include:

Heart health: Some types of nuts, such as almonds and walnuts, are high in monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats, which are known to be heart-healthy. Studies have shown that consuming nuts can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Weight management: Although nuts are high in calories, research has shown that people who regularly consume nuts are less likely to be overweight or obese. This may be due to the fact that nuts are high in fibre, which helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Diabetes management: Some nuts, such as almonds and pistachios, are high in fibre and protein, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that consuming nuts may help to lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Brain health: Nuts are a good source of antioxidants and polyphenols, compounds that can help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Some research has suggested that consuming nuts may have a protective effect on brain health and may even help to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

Cancer prevention: Some nuts, such as Brazil nuts and almonds, are high in selenium, a mineral that has been shown to have anti-cancer properties. Some studies have also suggested that consuming nuts may help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, including breast cancer.

Different Types of Healthy Nuts Available at Happilo

These different types of nuts are available in single packages as well as in combos. 

Walnuts

Walnuts are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids essential for brain and heart health. They are also a good source of antioxidants and have been shown to help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Almonds

Almonds are high in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy fats. They are also a good source of protein, fibre, and vitamin E, an antioxidant that can help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.

Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts are a good source of monounsaturated fats and vitamin E. They are also high in manganese, which is needed for bone health and metabolism.

Cashews

Cashews are a good source of monounsaturated fats and vitamin E. They are also high in copper, an important mineral for producing collagen and iron absorption.

Pistachios

Pistachios are a good source of protein, fibre, and antioxidants. Ideal for gifting, they are also high in potassium, essential for maintaining normal blood pressure. 

Brazil nuts

Brazil nuts are a good source of selenium, a mineral that has been shown to have anti-cancer properties. They are also high in magnesium, which is significant for bone health and muscle function.

Macadamia nuts

Macadamia nuts are high in monounsaturated fats and have been shown to help lower cholesterol levels. They are also a good source of thiamin, a B vitamin that is important for energy metabolism.

Pinenuts

Pinenuts are a good source of vitamin E and manganese. They are also high in monounsaturated fats and have been shown to help lower cholesterol levels.

Pecannuts

Pecannuts are a good source of antioxidants and have been shown to help lower cholesterol levels. They are also high in monounsaturated fats and have a high ratio of polyunsaturated to saturated fats, which is thought to be beneficial for heart health.

How to Add Nuts in Your Daily Diet?

There are many ways to add different types of nuts to your daily diet:

As a snack: Nuts make a convenient and satisfying snack on their own or in combination with other healthy foods like fruit or whole grain crackers.

As a topping: Sprinkle nuts over oatmeal, yogurt, or salads for a crunchy texture and added flavour.

In baking: Nuts can be used in various baked goods like bread, cookies, and muffins for added flavour and texture.

In savoury dishes: Nuts can be used to add crunch and flavour to savoury dishes like stir-fries, salads, and pasta dishes.

As a spread: Nut butter like peanut butter or almond butter can be used as a spread on toast, crackers, or fruit for a protein-packed snack.

It's important to remember that different types of nuts are high in calories, so it's important to be mindful of portion sizes. A serving of nuts is generally considered to be 1 ounce (28 grams), or about a handful. It's also a good idea to choose a variety of nuts to get the most health benefits of nuts.

What are Some Healthy Recipes Made From Nuts?

Who says Healthy can’t be homely or tasty? These have the following homely means with a healthy twist with different types of nuts!

• Almond Butter Chicken: In a blender, combine 1/2 cup almond butter, 1/4 cup coconut milk, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 teaspoon garam masala, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Pulse until smooth. Coat chicken breasts with the almond butter mixture and bake at 400 degrees F for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

• Cashew Curry: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and 1 diced bell pepper and cook until the vegetables are soft. Stir in 1 cup diced tomatoes, 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup unsalted cashews, 1 tablespoon curry powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. As it starts to boil, reduce the flame to low, and let it cook for 10 minutes. Serve over rice or with naan bread.

• Chana Masala with Roasted Pistachios: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and 1 diced bell pepper and cook until the vegetables are soft. Stir in 1 cup cooked chickpeas, 1 cup diced tomatoes, 1 tablespoon garam masala, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. As it starts to boil, reduce the flame to low, and let it cook for 10 minutes. Serve over rice or with naan bread and top with roasted pistachios.

• Pine Nut Raita: In a blender, combine 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup water, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 1 clove garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Pulse until smooth. Serve as a side dish with Indian-style dishes or as a sauce for grilled chicken or vegetables.

• Quinoa Salad with Cashews: Cook 1 cup of quinoa according to package instructions. In a mixing bowl, combine the quinoa with 1 cup diced vegetables (such as bell peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes), 1/2 cup diced cooked chicken (optional), and 1/4 cup chopped cashews. Dress with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.

• Walnut Pesto Pasta: In a food processor, combine 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, 1 cup packed fresh basil, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup olive oil, and 1 clove garlic. Pulse until smooth paste forms. Toss the pesto with cooked pasta and serve.

Pre/Post workout meal recipes with Happilo’s Healthy Nuts recipes! 

• No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites: Combine 1 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup peanut butter, 1/3 cup honey, and 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) in a mixing bowl. Roll the mixture into balls and refrigerate until firm.

• Almond Butter Banana Smoothie: Blend 1 banana, 1 cup unsweetened almond milk, 1 tablespoon almond butter, 1 scoop protein powder (optional), and a handful of ice in a blender until smooth.

The Ultimate Check List to Buy Nuts

Quality

Look for nuts that are fresh, not rancid or stale. They should be evenly colored and free from blemishes or discoloration.

Packaging

Choose nuts that are sold in airtight packaging or bulk bins. This will help to keep them fresher for longer. Avoid nuts that are sold in open bins or bags, as they may have been handled by multiple people and could be contaminated. 

Variety

Choose a variety of nuts to get the most health benefits. Here are all types of nuts to consider include almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, cashews, pistachios, Brazil nuts, macadamia nuts, pinenuts, and pecannuts.

Raw or roasted

Both raw and roasted nuts can be healthy, but it's important to consider the type of oil and seasoning used on roasted nuts. Choose nuts roasted in healthy oil, such as olive oil, and avoid those coated in sugar or other unhealthy additives.

Organic or conventional

Both organic and conventional nuts can be healthy, but organic nuts may be more environmentally friendly and may be grown without the use of synthetic pesticides.

Budget

Consider your budget when you buy nuts online. Nuts can be expensive, so comparing prices and choosing the most cost-effective option may be helpful.

Storage

Keep nuts in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to help extend their shelf life. They can also be stored in the refrigerator or freezer to help them stay fresh longer.

Conclusion 

Nuts are a good source of nutrients and can have several health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet. As mentioned earlier, nuts are high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, as well as a variety of vitamins and minerals. They are also low in cholesterol and sodium, and they contain antioxidants that can help protect against diseases such as heart disease and cancer. It is important to note that nuts are high in calories, so it is important to consume them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

FAQ