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Nuts are great snacking partners when it comes to eating a healthy and balanced diet. Despite being high in fat, they are packed with nutritious minerals and fibres that can significantly impact your health. If you are a fan of nuts, here are some interesting facts and health benefits about your favourite nuts.
- Peanuts
Peanuts are the most popular nuts consumed; they account for 36% of all nut consumption globally. Peanuts are quite famous in the US, with Americans spending almost $800 million a year on peanut butter. This might come as a surprise to everyone, but peanuts are not really considered nuts they are legumes that grow underground alongside beans and peas. Peanuts are rich with healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamin B and potassium. Peanuts are an excellent snack for people with diabetes, they can help control blood sugar levels because they are low in carbs. However, you need to have this rich legume in moderation as part of a healthy balanced diet.
- Cashews
Did you know that cashew nuts are fruits? Cashews are fruits that grow on a large tropical tree. Cashews can help boost your immune system, they are a great source of antioxidants and are rich in protein.
- Hazelnuts
This super delicious power nut is commonly used in Turkish cuisine, no wonder it is one of the most flavourful cuisines, which is why Turkey is the world’s biggest producer of hazelnuts. Turkey produces nearly 75% of the global supply of hazelnuts. A hazelnut tree can live through generations, as it can continue to produce until it’s over 80 years of age. Ancient Romans used torches made of hazelnut branches at wedding ceremonies because they represented happiness and prosperity. Hazelnuts are very nutritious they are rich with vitamin B, vitamin E, iron, magnesium and fibers.
- Pistachios
Pistachio is another nut added to the list of fruits. Pistachios get their famous green colour from high antioxidant content found in them, which are the same antioxidants found in vegetables. A serving of 49 pistachio nuts have the same amount of protein found in one egg. In China a Pistachio is called the “happy nut”. In Chinese culture pistachios represent health, happiness and good fortune, no wonder why we can’t stop smiling while eating these delicious nuts. Pistachios are packed with nutrients and minerals such as vitamin B, copper, and potassium; in fact, pistachios contain more potassium than half a large banana.
- Almonds
If you are a huge fan of almonds, then you should thank bees. Almond trees can’t really grow on their own without the help of bee pollen. Almonds are also popular among chocolate manufacturers, about 40% of the world’s almond crop is bought by them. Almonds are also very beneficial for your gut they contain a good number of probiotics that will help keep your gut and intestines healthy.
- Walnuts
Walnut is the oldest tree to ever exist, they date all the way back to 12,000 years ago. Walnuts are the healthiest nuts, they contain a very high amount of omega 3, they can help delay aging and aid with weight loss.
- Chestnuts
Nothing captures the spirit of the Holiday season like these delicious nuts. Chestnuts are the only nuts that contain vitamin C, they provide about 20% of your daily vitamin C intake. Chestnuts are the main ingredient in the French expensive treat Marron glacé, which is a dried and candied chestnut, it is extremely popular during Christmas time.
- Macadamia
Did you know that macadamia nuts tell farmers when they are ready to be harvested? When ripe macadamia nuts fall off the tree, that’s when farmers know it’s time for harvest. Macadamia nuts are very harmful for dogs, if you have a little pooch at home make sure to keep him away from macadamia nuts. Macadamia is rich with omega-7 fatty acids that help promote skin, nail, and hair health. They also may help reduce heart disease risks, can promote brain health, and reduce the risk of diabetes.
Now that you know so much about your favourite nuts head to the Waterfront Market which offers a wide variety of nuts, with more than 30 retailers offering amazing deals on local and imported nuts. If you are craving some cashew nuts or need for some pine nuts for a delicious Kebbeh recipe then Waterfront Market is the place to go.