In the study, the group that ate extra nuts consumed a mix of walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts. Several other recent studies also show that nuts have powerful medicinal benefits (when eaten as part of an overall healthy diet), including these five:
- Pistachios lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel function, Pennsylvania State University researchers reported in a 2012 study. An earlier study also found that the tasty nuggets help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol.
- Walnuts aid weight loss, because when eaten in moderation, they help dieters feel full, a Harvard study reports. Nuts are packed with potassium, magnesium and other health-boosting minerals, along with protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Nuts protect against heart disease, by reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol and combatting inflammation. In the well-known Harvard Nurses Study, women who are nuts daily had a 30% lower rate of heart disease.
- Almonds trim diabetes risk by improving insulin sensitivity, a Loma Linda University study reports.
- Walnuts may boost men’s fertility by enhancing sperm health, a 2012 study found. An earlier study also reported that walnuts have higher quality antioxidants than any other nut. The tasty treats may also help reduce prostate cancer risk.
