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Health Benefits of Walnuts

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Walnuts are one healthy nut. History traces back walnuts to over 8,000 years ago. Walnuts have long been revered for their health benefits. Today, walnuts receive much attention due to their Omega-3 fat content. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential – they are needed for your health but your body cannot produce them. You can get your recommended intake of Omega-3 fatty acids by consuming walnuts.

Aside from being an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts are high in ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) and are full of powerful antioxidants. One antioxidant in particular, ellagic acid, has long been recognized as a critical component to helping boost the immune system. Walnuts also are a good source of protein, dietary fiber, phosphorus and magnesium

My Health Food Quick Notes
Excellent Source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Help Lower Cholesterol
Decrease Risk of Heart Disease
Decrease Inflammations
Improve Brain Function

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Health Benefits

Walnuts help improve cardiovascular health. This is due to a variety of factors. Walnuts are an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids that is essential for normal growth, development, brain function and help improve blood flow. Omega-3 fatty acids directly help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, atherosclerosis, cancers, arthritis and inflammations. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have also been shown to help lower blood pressure.

Help Lower Cholesterol

Walnuts are also a great source of mono-unsaturated fats. Mono-unsaturated fats have been shown to help lower cholesterol levels and also help lower the risk of heart disease. In fact, walnuts have been shown to lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels effectively. Walnuts also contain ellagic acid, a nutrient that has been shown to have antioxidant potential. The antioxidant activity that walnuts offer further helps lower cholesterol levels.

Walnuts and Brain Function

Walnuts are great food for the brain. This is again due to the rich presence of Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega 3 helps retain the integrity of cell membranes, including the cellular membranes present in the brain. Adequate levels of Omega 3 can also help reduce the risk of depression. Studies also indicate that walnuts may help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

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