Benefits of Walnuts

Dried fruits and nuts are the powerhouses of energy, as they are loaded with calories. But, these are not unhealthy calories. Dried fruits and nuts, especially, nuts are high in omega fatty acids and contain many micro nutrients which in small amounts are very beneficial to the health. One of the healthiest nuts are walnuts. There are many health benefits of walnuts, and making them a part of your diet will enrich your diet.

Walnuts are dry nuts which are enclosed between two semi spherical hard shells that are joined. The fruit inside has a characteristic shape of a butterfly, and the nut inside is edible that resembles the brain. Walnuts grow on huge deciduous trees, which can grow up to 40 meters in height. These nuts are harvested during December, but as they can be dried and consumed, one can find them all year round. Walnuts are very good for vegetarians, as they contain omega-3 fatty acids, which is almost absent in a veggie diet, as the only other source of omega-3 is fish. Hence, people who are vegetarians should definitely make walnuts as a part of their diet. Mentioned below are the various nutrients present in walnuts and the benefits of walnuts.

Health Benefits of Walnuts

Nutrients in Walnuts
Walnuts are packed in energy content, 25 grams of walnuts, which is ¼ cup can provide around 123 calories. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Many people try to compare the benefits of walnuts and almonds. Both are rich in nutrients, however walnuts health benefits show that it is the only plant source for omega-3 fatty acids. However, almonds also have their own benefits, and hence, shouldn't be ignored. Apart from omega-3, it also contains a good amount of copper and tryptophan, and is rich in manganese.

Benefits of Walnuts
Here is a list of the various benefits of walnuts, which can be contributed to the omega-3 fatty acids content present in them.

• Omega-3 is a very important nutrient, which can prevent many diseases. Walnuts have a high concentration of these good fats, which lower the risks of cardiovascular diseases, promote better cognitive function and have anti-inflammatory property that protect against asthma, rheumatoid arthritis and other skin diseases related to inflammation like psoriasis and eczema.
• Walnuts can lower the cholesterol level, due to the nutrients it contains, like antioxidants, phenols, vitamin E, gallic acid and ellagic acid.
• Walnuts are great brain food, as they are rich in omega-3 which plays an important role in the process of important nutrients entering the brain cells, and the exit of waste cells.
• Omega-3 also helps to reduce depression and ADHD. Also, the omega-3 with manganese help to maintain bones in a good condition.
• Eating walnuts regularly helps to prevent gallstones, also it contains melatonin which promotes a good night's sleep.
• Most nuts are good for skin. Benefits of walnuts for skin are due to the antioxidants they contain. As nuts contain vitamins A and E, they protect the skin against free radical damage, thus preventing the signs of aging. Also, the good fats which are omega-3 in walnuts, help to maintain a nourished and smooth complexion.
• Benefits of walnuts for hair include stronger hair, more conditioned and moisturized hair. Also, walnuts contain micro nutrients which prevent hair fall from occurring. Almonds are other good nuts preferred for hair health. You can mix almond and walnut oil and apply it on your scalp to condition it.

This was all about walnuts nutrition and the health benefits of walnuts. So, include them in your diet, and enjoy the health benefits provided by walnuts.