Nuts, or dry fruits as we locally call them, are a staple winter food; and for good reason too. Besides being the perfect snack to munch by the fireside on cold winter nights, nuts are chock full of nutrition, ranging from polyunsaturated fats to vitamins and essential nutrients. Even if they are not your go-to cold weather snack, the benefits of these 7 most favored winter nuts will make you want to reach for the nearest pack:
1- Peanuts
Along with being relatively cheaper, peanuts contain phytosterols, mono-unsaturated fatty acids, manganese and tryptophan-an amino acid- which aid in cancerous tumor reduction, balancing cholesterol and blood sugar levels in our body and reducing depression. Furthermore, the L-arginine present in peanuts stimulates the release of growth hormones, which can be beneficial in combating hair loss.
2- Walnuts
Bio-available melatonin in walnuts helps regulate sleep, marking them as an excellent treatment for insomnia. High concentrations of Vitamins B and E slow down the aging process and increase memory efficiency. Widely known to contain omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts are good for hair in dry weather. They also have the added benefit of reducing kidney deficiency and regulating urinary frequency.
3- Almonds
Although high in calories, almonds have a laxative effect, thereby aiding in chronic constipation relief. A common ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine, almonds prevent respiratory problems and cure coughs and colds in winters.
4- Hazelnuts
An amazing fruit, hazelnuts are rich in protein, carbohydrates, vitamin E, minerals, and sugar fiber, which are beneficial in cholesterol reduction and prevention of various types of cancer such as colon, prostate and breast cancer. The minerals present in hazelnuts help relieve poor appetite, fatigue and post-illness weakness.
5- Pistachios
Rich in Vitamin E, pistachios shield the skin from UV rays, a leading cause of skin cancer. The antioxidants present in pistachios also prevent skin ageing by neutralizing free radicals. The significant presence of carotenoids luthein and zeaxanthin-that are important components for the treatment of eye diseases- is a trait unique to pistachios.
6- Cashew Nuts
Cashews contain a comparatively lower fat content and can aid in weight loss if eaten in moderation. Unsaturated fatty acids like linoleic and linolenic acids present in cashews play an important part in the prevention of stroke and arteriosclerosis. They also possess anti-ageing properties due to the presence of Vitamin E.
7- Chestnuts
Chestnuts are an effective component for treating hypertension, coronary heart disease and osteoporosis due to the abundance of vitamins, minerals and polyunsaturated fatty acids. They also provide nourishment to the kidneys, stomach and blood.
8- Sesame seeds
Sesame seeds contain a multitude of beneficial things including, but not limited to, vitamin B1, healthy fat, healthy cholesterol, fiber and calcium. Anti-cancer properties are also present within sesame seeds. Consuming sesame seeds controls your blood pressure, raises your immunity and strengthens your heart. Sesame seeds can be consumed with a salad and are even used in laddoo and chikki. These also keep the body warm in the winter.
9- Chia Seeds
The chia seed helps in controlling diabetes and keeping away heart disease due to the abundant amino acids, fibers and beneficial nutrients which reside in it. Weight reduction can also be aided by the chia seed as it absorbs water from the body. Blood sugar levels can also be regulated by consuming chia seeds.
10- Pumpkin seeds
Due to the abundance of fiber, vitamin A, K and C in pumpkin seed, it gives you good sleep, keeps the problem of cheek-bladder and prevents diabetes from occurring. You can use this crispy seed in your soup, salad etc.
11- Pine Nuts
Clinical dieticians in India say that Pine nuts are loaded with vital nutrients and can offer an insane amount of health benefits. These are one of the healthiest nuts you can consume in the winter since they contain an abundant amount of fiber, vitamin A, zinc, iron and magnesium which helps you stay healthy. These nuts can be used in your salads, healthy cookies and desserts as an extra topping to boost your health.
Pine nuts also help with weight loss and getting rid of belly fat. They are an excellent option for those of us looking to get back in shape. Hormonal health can also be maintained by the use of pine nuts since they are loaded with zinc. The zinc also assists with immunity and wound healing according to dieticians and should therefore be included in diet plans with no hesitation.
Although nuts are highly beneficial in the treatment of various diseases, the importance of medical assistance cannot be ignored. You can Book Appointments with Top Nutritionists in Karachi, Multan and Islamabad through Oladoc.com with ease. Call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT Doctor for your dermatological needs.
