Nutrition
Walnuts
Walnuts are a powerhouse of nutrients. Recent
studies have confirmed that walnuts have many potential health
benefits ranging from cardiovascular protection, to being
an excellent “brain food” along with their anti-inflammatory
properties, helping in treating a number of inflammation related
diseases. Walnuts are an excellent source of Omega-3 essential
fatty acids and contain an antioxidant compound called ellagic
acid that supports the immune system and appears to have anticancer
properties. An important source of monounsaturated fats, walnuts
have favorable effects on lowering total cholesterol levels,
LDL cholesterol an Lp(a), another lipid compound that increases
blood clotting and when elevated is considered a risk for
atherosclerosis. Numerous compounds have been identified in
walnuts including 16 polyphenols and 3 tannins, with antioxidant
activity so protective it has been described as “remarkable.”
Not only are walnuts a beautiful, ornamental nut, they can
be used in a wide variety of recipes or eaten as a nutritious
snack.
Almonds
Almonds are a good source of highly digestible
protein. They also contain a substantial amount of dietary
fiber (3 gm. Per ounce), proven to have cholesterol-lowering
effects in the body. Almonds are rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant
that has been shown to decrease the risk of certain forms
of cancer, heart disease and cataracts. A one ounce serving
of almonds provides approximately 7.3 milligrams of alpha-tocopheral
vitamin E, the more powerful and absorbable form of the vitamin.
In addition to the numerous health benefits of eating almonds,
they are a delicious, practical snack and a versatile addition
to many food dishes.
Pistachios
Pistachios are a delicious snack choice. One
ounce of pistachios contain more than 10% of the Daily Nutritional
Value for dietary fiber, vitamin B-6, thiamin, phosphorous
and copper. They are naturally cholesterol free and especially
rich in phytosterols, which are directly associated with lowering
cholesterol levels. Pistachios are a high quality source of
plant protein, providing a balanced profile of essential amino
acids, the necessary building blocks for growth and healing
in the body.
Cashews
Cashews have lower fat content than most other
nuts. Approximately 65% of their fat is unsaturated fatty
acids, primarily olecic acid, which is the same heart-healthy
monosaturated fat found in olive oil, proven to help reduce
triglyceride levels in the body. Cashews are also a good source
of copper, an essential component of many enzymes involved
in metabolic processes. They contain a generous amount of
magnesium, as well, which is important for good bone health
and necessary to regulate nerve and muscle tone. In addition,
cashews are a good source of zinc, which affects many immune
function processes. Native to the coastal areas of Brazil,
cashews have made their way worldwide into many recipes as
well as being a nutritious, great tasting snack food.
Pecans
Studies have consistently shown that the unsaturated
fats in pecans can help lower cholesterol levels. Pecans contain
plant components with antioxidant properties, which can slow
the oxidation or “rusting” of LDL (bad) cholesterol.
Besides being a zesty addition to many recipes, pecans contain
over 10 vitamins and minerals which include vitamin A, vitamin
E, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium,
several B vitamins and zinc. The photochemicals found in pecans
may have a protective effect against certain diseases such
as various cancers and heart disease. One ounce of pecans
contains the same amount of fiber as a medium-size apple.
Pecans taste great and are packed with nutrients, very good
reasons to include them in a balanced diet. |
Banana Chips
These yummy chips are an excellent source of
potassium and are full of antibiotic properties that help
the body fight off infections and viruses. Bananas are and
excellent energy snack because they contain Vitamin C and
B6. They also have more digestible carbohydrates than other
fruits and properties that help cure a upset stomach.
Apricots
Apricots are rich in Vitamin A, magnesium and
potassium assisting the body with endurance, energy and stamina.
As well as being tasty they contain beta-carotene, iron and
carotenoids, which may help prevent cancer.
Cranberries
Cranberries are a powerhouse of antioxidants.
They have significant amounts of phytonutrients that may help
to protect against heart disease, cancer and other diseases.
They include more antioxidant phenols than 19 more commonly
eaten fruits as well as help with the health of the urinary
tract. The anti-adhesion properties of cranberries may also
inhibit the bacteria associated with gum disease and stomach
ulcers. This tart but tasty fruit is packed with health benefits.
Pineapple
Dubbed “the pine of the Indies”
by early explorers and commonly eaten with apples, the pineapple
is a great source of vitamin A and C. It is high in Bromelain,
a protein digesting enzyme which aids the body’s digestive
system as well as having known anti-inflammatory properties.
The lush, tropical sweetness of pineapple and its health properties
make it an important addition to any diet.
Papaya
A sweet and unique flavor makes dried papaya
a favorite snack. Containing more beta-carotene than carrots
as well as being high in vitamin C, potassium, magnesium and
calcium; papaya is very beneficial for the body. Papaya also
helps the body produce arginine, an essential amino acid known
to activate the human growth hormone (HGH) which is crucial
for cell rejuvenation and rebuilding in the liver, muscles
and bones. Alkaline in composition, papaya is soothing for
upset stomachs and also helps to relieve constipation. Sweet
and refreshing, papaya contains papain, an enzyme which contributes
to the breakdown of food and aids overall in the digestive
process.
Peaches
Peaches are abundant in vitamin A, which helps
maintain healthy skin and eyes. In addition, vitamin A assists
in building strong bones, teeth and hair and it is necessary
for numerous cellular functions. Peaches are also rich in
vitamin C, known to support the body’s immune system,
essential for healthy gums and vitamin E which research has
shown is crucial in preventing cardio-vascular disease and
certain forms of cancer. Peaches are also a good source of
dietary fiber.
Pears
Pears are a good source of vitamin C and dietary
fiber as well as being high in thiamin, riboflavin, niacin
and folic acid as well as calcium, potassium, phosphorus and
other minerals. The fruit sugar in pears is Levulose, which
is easily tolerated by diabetics. Pears are higher in pectin
than apples, a fiber promoting regularity. Pears are a beautiful,
scrumptious part of a healthy diet. |
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