Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Question of the week: Oh Nuts!!!!!

The following question was submitted by one of my readers to be addressed on my blog, "Are nuts ok to snack on and if so, are there certain types I should look for? "

Nuts are a great choice for a snack for almost everyone. They are chock full of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients such as fiber! Nuts are naturally cholesterol free and contain only a trace of natural sodium (unless salt is added during roasting). Since nuts contain protein, "healthy fat" (monounsaturated or MUFAs), and fiber, they can be very satisfying.

While they are a healthy, "nutrient dense" snack, please keep the following in mind:
*Nuts are highly caloric and high in fat (albeit the healthy kind) so keep your serving to 1 handful to 1.5 handfuls per serving size.
*Look for varieties that are raw or dry roasted. Salt, honey roasting, cinnamon sugar and other "coatings" can add extra unwanted calories.

Extra Facts:
*Walnuts contain Omega-3s
*Peanuts contain folate and niacin (B-vitamins)
*Whole almonds are a naturally high source of vitamin E, calcium, magnesium and potassium. Almonds are the tree nut highest in protein, fiber, calcium, vitamin E, riboflavin, and niacin when compared ounce for ounce.

For more great information on these types of nuts and others:
http://www.nuthealth.org/

2 comments:

  1. I just had cashews as a snack! Glad to know it was a good choice! ;-)

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  2. Avoid deep fried foods or ones that have been cooked at high temperatures. ActiveMan Nutrition

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