Walnuts: Health benefits
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. These acid helps boost the immune system. Walnuts also are a good source of protein, dietary fiber, phosphorus and magnesium
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 also helps lower blood pressure.
Help Lower Cholesterol
Walnuts are also a great source of mono-unsaturated fats. It helps lower cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease. In fact, walnuts can lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels effectively.
Walnuts also contain ellagic acid. It is antioxidant potential. The antioxidant activity that walnuts offer further helps lower cholesterol levels.
Walnuts and Brain Function
Walnuts are a 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.