The Benefits of Nuts in a Raw Foods Diet
For the person who practices a raw foods diet, nuts are important because they are the primary source of protein. Nuts can be delicious when fresh out of the shell, but the raw foodist will most likely avoid those nuts which have been roasted, taking away the raw value of the nuts. The best place to shop for these nuts is at an organic food store since most grocery chains sell them roasted, with added salt and spices which can take away the natural flavoring of the nuts. Below are ten nuts, all high in protein, with additional nutrition information:
Pecans. These delicious nuts, while frequently used in candy, are high in unsaturated fat. They also contain antioxidants that reduce bad cholesterol. Pecans also have vitamin E.
Filberts/hazelnuts. These nuts contain thiamine, B6, and trace amounts of other B vitamins. They are a good as a source of energy as a snack.
Walnuts. Walnuts reduce bad cholesterol, and are good for blood vessels and heart health. Walnuts contain antioxidants. The amino acid arginine in walnuts is what keeps the blood vessels in good condition. These nuts also lowers blood sugar, preventing the onset of diabetes type 2.
Pine nuts. These nuts come from the Stone pine cone tree. Pine nuts contain fiber, thiamine, and B1.
Almonds. These versatile nuts for eating must be domestic, not wild. Almonds have no carbohydrates, and are rich in vitamin E. Almonds also reduce bad cholesterol.
Cashews. A delicious snack nut, cashews are rich in thiamine and have other trace B vitamins. Cashews are also rich in phosphorus, magnesium, zinc and iron.
Peanuts. These nuts are also called groundnuts. Peanuts are rich in protein, and niacin, which is good for the brains, and blood flow to the brains. Peanuts have antioxidants, which can reverse heart disease, and reduce cancer risk. They are also rich in folate, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc.
Brazil nuts. Popular during the holidays, Brazil nuts are rich in selenium, magnesium, and thiamine. Selenium may reduce risk of some cancers.
Macadamia. Another favorite of mine, macadamia nuts are high in monosaturated fat, the good fat that lowers bad cholesterol. These nuts also contain calcium, fiber, and trace B vitamins.
Pistachio. A nut native to the Near East, pistachios reduce heart disease, and are high in good cholesterol. The nut has a low water content. Makes a great snack nut.
Suggestions for use:
Add raw shelled nuts to a salad. Mix three or four different nuts for snacks throughout the day. Add raw nuts to sushi rolls mixed with rice and vegetables.
Image Credit: Pixabay.
