Nuts and Seeds Diet: The Importance of Nuts and Seeds in Our Diet
EducationNuts and Seeds Diet: The Importance of Nuts and Seeds in Our Diet
It is no wonder the popularity of nuts and seeds in the diet are on a rise. These are extremely healthy and considered one of the best healthy foods. We need all the nutrients of nuts and seeds for a healthy body and growth. Another good thing about nuts and seeds is these are very tasty and satisfying as well. Nuts and seeds can be eaten raw or cooked. These can be used as healthy snacks for a healthy diet. There are various types of nuts and seeds are available and regular consumption of nuts and seeds can decrease the chances of many diseases. Just like the importance of green vegetables – nuts and seeds also have the great importance in our diet.
Nutrients of Nuts and Seeds – The Health Benefits of Nuts and Seeds
It is true that nuts and seeds are great for health but we need consider that these are high on calorie too. So overeating them can make a negative impact on health. Therefore, it is important for us to consume these foods moderately. The major advantage of nuts and seeds are they contain excellent nutrients. These are great sources of protein and people who are vegetarian can get a lot of protein by consuming nuts and seeds. They are also highly rich with B Vitamins and Vitamin E. They are also a good source of lecithin- a fatty substance that can be found in plant tissues. Not only this they are also rich with different plant substances like flavonoids. Nuts and seeds are also excellent sources of dietary fiber, phytochemicals, and antioxidants. A good amount of Omega 3, Omega 6 and Omega 9 fatty acids can be found in nuts and seeds. In addition, they contain minerals such as Selenium, Potassium, Calcium, Sulphur and Sodium. An essential amino acid called arginine can be found in nuts and seeds. They also provide important phytonutrients protease inhibitors, ellagic acid, and other polyphenols.
Health Benefits of Nuts and Seeds
One of the major benefits of nuts and seeds is that they are good for controlling the diabetes. Nuts contain monounsaturated fats which are responsible for lowering the risk of Type 2 diabetes. Being a good source of arginine nuts and seeds are good for immune functions and hormone growth. Arginine also plays an important role in heart health. It is beneficial to cardiovascular diseases, blood pressure and blood clot formation. Phytochemicals in nuts and seeds also reduce the levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and helpful to prevent some cancers. Research showed that nuts and seeds can be helpful to reduce insomnia and also good for asthma. Nuts and seeds are great for health because they contain a lot of antioxidants. Nuts and seeds are full of vitamins and minerals that is why they are great for rejuvenation of cells which is good for preventing premature aging.
Some of the highly nutritious and popular nuts and seeds are:
Almonds, Cashew, Brazil nuts, Walnuts, Hazelnuts, Peanuts, Coconut, Chestnuts, Pistachios, Sunflower seeds, Pumpkin seeds, Flaxseeds, and Whole Sesame seeds.
Nuts and seeds are super foods. They are nutritious and great for our health. But it is important that we should have these in moderation to get the best result.