Fitness Nutrition Forums

Why Nuts Might Actually Be the Perfect Snack

We are always on the go, which means that we seldom have time to sit and cook a hearty meal and find it hard to take the time to replenish nutrients after a workout because there's just no time. What we need is a quick solution, and that's why nuts are such a fantastic snack.

Nuts are high in fat, most of which is monounsaturated fat (the good kind of fat), but also protein and fiber, and they tend to keep you fuller for longer. Another benefit is that nuts can help prevent cardiovascular disease, and according to Reader's Digest, research indicates that by eating nuts on all or most days of the week can help to reduce the risk of a heart attack by 35 percent in both men and women. While HealthLine reports that eating nuts regularly may also improve blood sugar levels and prevent several chronic diseases.

However, when it comes to diet and nuts there are some varieties that tend to be better for you (ounce for ounce). According to Health, macadamia and pecans tend to have the most calories and fat, while offering the least amount of protein. While cashews, almonds, and pistachios are a better choice if you're trying to watch your weight because they are lower in calories. And according to Reader's Digest, pine nuts are a natural appetite suppressant.

One thing to remember when snacking on nuts is to avoid the roasted variety (unless they are dry roasted) as these are usually full of oil, and have also lost a lot of their nutrients through the roasting process. Instead, opt for raw nuts and always in moderation, because even though nuts are good for you (and by far one of the healthiest snacks on the market) they are also calorie dense.


[Image via Shutterstock]

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