Health Benefits of Walnuts
Crack
open the health benefits of walnuts! Walnuts are rich
in healthy poly-unsaturated fat, antioxidants and essential
minerals. The key to enjoying this nutrient-rich nut
is portion size. A portion of walnuts is 1 ounce, or
about 14 walnut halves, and contains 190 calories.
Compared with other tree nuts, walnuts contain the highest amount of omega-3 fatty acids. Just 1 ounce of walnuts contains 2.5 grams of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is close to 100% of the recommended daily value.
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that the body cannot produce and must be obtained through diet. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce blood pressure, reduce low-density lipoproteins (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol, and reduce triglyceride levels. In addition, studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation in the body which can reduce the symptoms of chronic diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, and cardiovascular disease.
Walnuts contain the highest amount of antioxidants of any tree nuts. Antioxidants are molecules capable of slowing or preventing oxidation, a process that can damage cells in the body.
Studies have shown that polyphenols reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. A handful of walnuts contain more polyphenols than a glass of red wine.
Walnuts also contain relatively high levels of L-arginine, an essential amino acid that must be obtained through diet and cannot be synthesized by the human body. L-arginine is converted to nitric oxide in the body, which helps relax blood vessels. Studies show that L-arginine helps lower blood pressure, by maintaining the body’s nitric oxide levels.
An ounce of walnuts provides 4 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber. Fiber helps regulate movement through the gastro-intestinal tract and helps you feel fuller longer which can prevent over-eating. In addition, it has been shown to decrease LDL and blood pressure as well as help diabetics maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Walnuts are also rich in the minerals magnesium, phosphorus, copper, and manganese.
About Walnuts
Walnuts come from an ornamental tree that can grow up to 130 feet high. There are three main types of walnuts; the English walnut, also known as the Persian walnut, the Black walnut, and the White or butternut walnut. The most popular type in the US is the English walnut, which has a thinner shell and is the easiest to crack open. The Black walnut has a thicker shell and more pungent flavor. It is mostly cultivated for its strong wood. The white walnut is sweeter and oilier than the other two, but it is not commonly found in stores.
Due to their high fat content, walnuts are extremely perishable. Shelled walnuts should be stored in an airtight container and placed in the refrigerator for up to 6 months or the freezer for up to 1 year. Unshelled walnuts should be stored in the refrigerator or a cool, dark place for up to 6 months. When walnuts become rancid, they will smell like paint thinner.
Did you know?
Two thirds of the world’s walnuts come from California’s central and coastal valley.
Tips for adding walnuts to your diet
-
Add chopped walnuts to yogurt and berries for a healthy parfait
- Add chopped walnuts to your salad, sandwich, ice cream, or cereal
- Use ground walnuts to thicken chili or stews
- Use ground walnuts instead of pine nuts in pesto sauce
- Spread ground walnut butter on your toast
- Coat chicken or fish with chopped walnuts and fresh herbs before cooking
Walnut oil has a slightly nutty flavor and is delicious mixed with vinegar as a salad dressing. It can also be used for low and moderate cooking, but not high heat.
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