Go ‘nuts’ over a healthy snack
By Mark Vavoulis • Nov 18th, 2009 • Category: True Health News, Whole Food Nutrition
Grabbing a handful of nuts is an easy way to have a healthy snack that’s high in nutrition.
According to a new Mayo Clinic report, nuts contain nutrients proven to be helpful in boosting heart health and lowering cholesterol, including unsaturated fats, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, 1-arginine and plant sterols.
These nutrients have also been shown to reduce LDL, or "bad" cholesterol, levels in the blood.
Experts say eating nuts may also reduce the risk of developing blood clots and improve the health of the lining of the arteries.
Although nuts are nutritious, they’re also high in calories so experts say to eat them in moderation. For example, an ounce of almonds contains 169 calories and 15 grams of fat. About a handful of any type of nut each day is enough to reap the health benefits without overdoing it.
Individuals who eat nuts as a part of a healthy diet are also encouraged to choose low-salt or salt-free varieties.
While nuts have long been believed to be an essential part of a heart-healthy diet, their efficacy in reducing the risk of heart disease has not yet been proven conclusively.
Mark Vavoulis
Questions for Mark Vavoulis? | All posts by
Mark Vavoulis



