Extensive scientific research shows that eating a handful of nuts every day significantly improves health. People who eat at least one hundred grams of nuts a day have, on average, a 22 per cent lower risk of dying prematurely. This applies to all sorts of ages and different dietary habits. Nuts contain healthy fats, fibre, plant proteins and important minerals that together produce these positive effects.
The benefits are especially clear for the heart. Nut eaters have a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular disease, including a 25 to 29 percent lower risk of coronary heart disease. In studies involving people who already had a higher risk of heart problems, adding nuts to the diet resulted in a substantial decrease in serious heart conditions and even strokes.
Besides their impact on the heart, nuts also reduce the risk of cancer. Antioxidants and fibre in nuts protect the body's cells, thereby counteracting harmful processes that promote the development of cancer. This explains why some forms of cancer are less common in people who regularly eat nuts.
Despite nuts containing a lot of calories, their consumption does not lead to weight gain. Nuts actually provide a feeling of fullness and stimulate a healthier appetite. Anyone who adds nuts to their daily diet is making a small effort with major health benefits.
For everyone who wants to age healthily, incorporating nuts into the daily diet is a simple and effective step to extend life and protect the heart.
Source: Buck Institute
