Eat Walnuts in Particular

The walnut is the only nut that provides significant amounts of alpha-linolenic acid, one of the three omega-3 fatty acids. Because your body cannot produce this acid, it needs to be provided daily from other sources. Seven walnuts can fulfill your daily need for these essential fatty acids. Omega-3s are brain food. Their high amounts of unsaturated fat help lower LDL or “bad” cholesterol in your blood and increase HDL, the “good” cholesterol. By eating a handful of walnuts a day, you can also reduce your risk for heat disease.

Eat a Nut

Nuts are high in fat, but they contain minerals, fiber, and nice amounts of protein. All nuts and seeds are small powerhouses. They are so powerful, in fact, that just having a serving of nuts five times a week can significantly reduce your risk for heart disease. However, nuts are high in calories and should be eaten in moderation; think of a serving as a tablespoon or two. Look for nuts that are unsalted; it’s not important whether they are roasted or unroasted. Nuts are great sprinkled on foods high in vitamin C, such as fruit and vegetables, because the vitamin C increases the body’s absorption of the iron in nuts.