8 Health Benefits Of Snacking On Nuts

Small but mighty, nuts are more than just a go-to snack which you can consume anytime you want regardless of a mid-afternoon treat or having them while watching your favourite show on Netflix. They are loaded with nutritional benefits including the likes of healthy fat, fibre and protein as long as you are not allergic to nuts. Of course, moderation matters when comes to snacking on nuts and it’s best to seek those without added salt, sugar or other additives. Here, we have compiled 8 Health Benefits of Snacking on Nuts.


1) High In Antioxidants

Did you know that nuts are packed with antioxidants? Well, thanks to their micronutrients known as polyphenols, the high level of antioxidants can protect your cells from damage against free radicals. Take pecans, for example; these nuts are not only full of antioxidants but also may help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol as well.

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2) They Contain Rich Source Of Fibre

Fibre or more specifically, dietary fibre plays a crucial part in our overall well-being. It benefits our digestive health as well as promotes regular bowel movements on a daily basis. And speaking of fibre, you can get it by snacking on nuts like pistachios, almonds and hazelnuts.

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3) They May Help You Lose Weight

Want to lose weight but unable to give up on snacking? Instead of wolfing down those salty chips, eating nuts might help you reach your weight-loss goals. The reason? Vitamins- and mineral-rich properties as well as healthy fats found in every nut. So, consider incorporating nuts as part of your daily diet plan and of course, remember that moderation is always the key. Some of the weight loss-aided nuts you should snack on include walnuts, pistachios, cashews and almonds.

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4) They Help To Suppress Your Appetite

Worry about overeating? Or perhaps looking to cut back on the calories? Try snacking on nuts, thanks to their high levels of healthy fats and fibre. For instance, eating a handful of recommended nuts like almonds help to make you feel fuller for a longer period of time.

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5) They Promote Good Brain Health

Get this: nuts are beneficial for the brain. They contain four unsaturated fatty acids including oleic acid, omega-3 and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) — all of which are essential for our brain cells. That means eating nuts can help improve your concentration as well as boosting the memory and make you think faster. So, the next time you want to do your brain a favour, consider snacking on these brain-boosting nuts including walnuts, almonds and hazelnuts.

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6) They Contain Amazing Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Inflammation generally acts as a physiological response to prevent us from getting ill. Think of it as a body defender that wards off viruses, injuries and harmful bacteria and responsible for maintaining our health in check. However, suffering from chronic inflammation tells a different story altogether, as it can cause several health risks from affecting the body arteries to increasign the chance of getting neurological problems such as Alzheimer’s disease. Thankfully, there are a few food that help to fight inflammation and one of them happens to be nuts. Packed with anti-inflammatory properties, some nuts like almonds and hazelnuts contain great sources of vitamin E — a crucial vitamin that may defend the body against harmful free radicals and is also able to minimise inflammation.

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7) They Are Beneficial For Men’s Health

For the gentlemen out there, take note: nuts are good for your overall well-being. Eating, say brazil nuts may protect you against prostate cancer, given its selenium-rich properties. Other nuts such as almonds, walnuts and hazelnuts can help to improve sperm count as well as promoting motility and vitality.

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8) They May Suppress The Growth Of Cancer Cells

What do apples, berries, fatty fish and carrots have in common? Apparently, all of them are known as essential foods that may reduce the risk of developing cancer and also inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Added to the list is nuts or more specifically, walnuts since they contain pedunculagin that plays an important role in minimising the risk of breast cancer.

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