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Walnuts – What, Why, and How?
What are walnuts?
Walnuts are a nut grown on trees that are jammed packed with brain, heart and lung powering nutrients. Did you know the following fun facts?
- 99% of the US walnut production is concentrated in California.
- The English walnut tree provides clusters of small flowers called catkins. These flowers may be cross-pollinated or self-pollinated. After the tree produces the catkins, it produces walnuts.
- Walnuts have been a traditional food in diets from the Mediterranean, South America, and Asia and can be used in sauces, stuffing, entrees, snacks, appetizers, and desserts.
- Walnuts are growing in popularity in the US. U.S. walnut consumption has been on the rise reaching a record of 0.54 pounds per person in 2004! Bigger crops and increased information about the health benefits have increased consumer demand for walnuts.
Why are they good for you?
- Walnuts contain Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) a type of Omega-3’sWalnuts are exceptionally high in their content of the omega-3 fatty acid, alpha-linolenic acid compared to other nuts. Omega-3’s are considered to be heart healthy because they help lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow through your arteries. Walnuts are not only good for your heart but are also good for your brain! “Omega 3 fatty acids are the type of fat preferred by the brain and nervous system.”
- Walnuts are rich in Magnesium
Walnuts are a good source of magnesium. Low magnesium diets have been linked to reduced insulin sensitivity and increased risk of type 2 Diabetes.
- Walnuts contain Vitamin E
Walnuts are a good source of the vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing unstable molecules that can damage your DNA cells.
How much should I eat?
Eating walnuts is one easy step a person can take to improve their health each day. Try to eat one ounce of walnuts per day to experience the health benefits. One ounce or 14 halves of walnuts contains 190 calories, 2.6 grams of omega-3 fats and are a great source of Vitamin E and magnesium.
Here are some fun and easy ways to try Walnuts:
- A handful of walnuts makes a great anytime snack
- Add them with fresh or dried fruit.
- Add them to salads, yogurt, breakfast cereals, or oatmeal.
- Add walnuts into side dishes such as white rice, quinoa and whole wheat pastas.
Esmerelda Guerrero is a Student Dietitian from Loma Linda University School of Allied Health Professions. She is a candidate for a combined BS/RD and Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics.
