We’ve all heard the health claims associated with nut consumption. They help lower cholesterol, provide protein and fiber, and can even help lower triglyceride levels. But in terms of disease prevention, are nuts really all they’re cracked up to be? A review of twenty studies examining the impact of nut consumption on heart disease and cancer points to yes. Researchers involved in the study found that people who ate the most amounts of nuts reduced the risk for coronary heart disease by 29%, cardiovascular disease by 21% and cancer by 15% when compared to people who ate the least amount of nuts. There was also a reduced risk for diabetes, respiratory disease, and infectious disease, with the majority of risk reduction achieved by consumption of only an ounce of nuts each day. This equates to roughly 24 almonds or 15 pecan halves. There was minimal decrease in risk associated with greater nut consumption, so only a small serving of nuts is needed. If you don’t do so already, now may be the time to consider including an ounce of nuts as a daily snack or as part of a meal to reap the many health benefits associated with nut consumption.
Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/06/well/eat/a-handful-of-nuts-is-good-for-your-health.html?_r=0
