The health benefits of eating nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds such as almonds, walnuts, pistachios, pecans, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and peanuts all contain a host of healthful nutrients. Just a handful packs a powerful punch of vitamins, minerals and fats, all of which work together to impact your heart, brain -- and your waistline. Just 1 oz. a day can diminish inflammation, provide satiating fiber and protein as well as immune-boosting minerals.

Heart-Healthy Fat

Nuts and seeds contain healthful mono- and polyunsaturated fats. These fats are essential to health by managing inflammation and maintaining the normal structure of every cell in our bodies. Saturated and trans fats, found in meats, full-fat dairy, fried and processed foods can be damaging to our bodies by triggering inflammation. Research shows that diets high in these unhealthy fats can lead to a host of diseases. Choosing healthy fats instead can lower cholesterol and decrease inflammation. A study published by "British Medical Journal" in 1998 found that individuals who consumed nuts five times a week had a 35% reduction in heart disease risk.

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/411381-what-are-the-health-benefits-of-eating-nuts-seeds/#ixzz28Mv43BlS