Not all nuts are created equal, some may be even greater for your intellect than others! Walnuts don’t just taste good they have also been consumed for their health benefits for many hundreds of years. Not only are they are packed with nutrition but they help improve your brain function as well. Grab a few raw walnuts and enjoy.

Health Benefits of Walnuts

• Boosts brain cognitive health
• Supports cardiovascular health
• Helps prevent cancer
• Diabetic friendly

What is so special about walnuts?

Walnuts originally came from Persia and the most common type eaten today is known as the English Walnut. Both nuts and shells have been used over the years for many health concerns from Alzheimer’s to parasites. These nuts also contain a high percentage of vitamins and minerals.

• High in Omega 3, 6 and ALA fatty acids. Walnuts have beneficial fats that improve your brain and nervous system function. These are the same fats that make up your brain and nervous system. Studies have shown that walnuts help improve memory, reduce inflammation and fight age related free radical damage in your brain, that could lead to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
• Heart healthy. Walnuts contain fatty acids, vitamins and minerals such as calcium and magnesium that help your heart and cardiovascular system. Studies have shown that walnuts can help lower blood pressure as well as your ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol due to their fatty acid content. Many adults are estimated to be 50 to 80 percent deficient in magnesium making walnuts a great snack to increase your levels
• High in anti-oxidants. Studies have shown that mice who ate a walnut rich diet experienced an 80% decrease in breast tumor growth. Another mouse study showed that walnuts decreased the growth of renal, colon and prostate cancers. Walnuts contain Vitamin E, Beta-sitosterol and Pedunculagin, all powerful antioxidants helpful for fighting cancer.
• High in protein. Diabetics have many reasons to love walnuts. They are a great source of protein and healthy fats as well as supporting the lining of your blood vessels, which is helpful for those who have Type 2 diabetes.

How many walnuts do you need to eat?

Walnuts are best consumed raw with the skins intact. Most people prefer to remove the skin as it has a bitter taste but 90% of their anti-oxidant properties reside in the skin of the walnut. Look for organic nuts whenever possible.

• A serving of one ounce or about 7 nuts daily is enough to reap the benefits of this tasty treat.

Walnuts are best stored in an airtight container in a cool place. 'Ask a naturopath' about more foods that can help you stay well and promote brain health.