Nuts may be small but they pack a powerful and nutritious punch—they’re chock-full of heart-healthy fats, minerals, protein, and vitamins. But did you know that some nuts are better for specific health goals than others?
Calorie Counting. If you’re counting calories, you may want to consider choosing the lowest calorie nuts: almonds, cashews, and pistachios. Almonds are the lowest calorie nut, and each of these nuts is best for your diet when consumed raw and unsalted. Cashews are a great sources of copper, magnesium and manganese.
Heart Health. There’s no better nut for heart health than walnuts. Walnuts are packed with alpha-linoleic acid (ALA)—a plant-based omega-3 essential fatty acid. Walnuts are also an excellent source of antioxidants and a good source of protein. Research suggests that walnuts were as effective as olive oil in reducing inflammation and oxidation in the arteries after eating a fatty meal.
Disease Prevention. Almonds take the spotlight again when it comes to general health. In addition to being the lowest calorie nut, almonds are also the one nut that provides the most calcium. They’re also an excellent source of fiber and vitamin E. Fiber helps lower cholesterol, makes you feel full, and is thought to help prevent diabetes.