GOING NUTS OVER NUTS

A NUT FANATIC
THE STAR NUT - WALNUT



 More Singaporeans now have gotten more health concious. A greater number of people are looking into nuts, which are packed full of nutrients.

Studies shown that walnuts contains twice as much antioxidants as that in a handful of other nuts such as pecans and almonds. 

Antioxidants help to protect cells from damage by harmful substances which could cause cancer or heart disease. Walnuts are also one of the few plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids. This nutrient, more commonly found in fatty fishes such as tuna and salmon, reduces inflammation and helps fight chronic disease .

Other plant sources of omega-3 includes flax and chia seeds. Omega-3 is also known as "brain food" as it is thought to boost memory and brain health. Come to think of it, doesn't it look like a brain too?!

Eating 12 walnuts a day could lower total and bad cholesterol levels without affecting that good cholesterol. "Good" cholesterol, prevents "bad" cholesterol from being deposited on artery walls. This helps to reduce the risk of heat disease.

Walnuts are high in polyunsaturated fat and low in saturated fat. Polyunsaturated fat improves the effect of 'good' cholesterol. Saturated fat and trans fat on the other hand, raise bad cholesterol levels, the unhealthiest form of fat.

Taken as part of a low-fat, plant-based diet, walnuts can help prevent arteries from hardening. But, be aware that eating too much may not do your body good as they are high in calories. thus, moderation is key. Don't just eat walnuts only, have a variety of nuts to reap the most benefits. ( Generally nuts are high in unsaturated fat and they are also a good source of protein and fibre. It is best eaten raw and unsalted )

Try changing your snacks from packets of chips or a chocolate bar to a packet of nuts instead. It is as tasty, plus, containing a lot more nutrients compared to chips or chocolate.

Don't fancy walnuts? Try others kinds of nuts such as Brazil nuts, Almonds, Cashews, Pistachios. Time to get ''nut-cited' !

XOXO