The magic of the nuts
Nuts are highly concentrated natural foods that contain a large amount of vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant and helps neutralize the free radicals. In this sense, it protects tissues from damages, which is often the cause of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Another important component in nuts (especially in peanuts) is the folic acid, which is needed for cell division and for the formation of red blood cells. There is an increased need for folic acid during pregnancy for example, as it is important for the proper development of the baby.
Nuts are a great source of some trace elements that are less common in other foods. These include copper (it is involved in protein synthesis, protects the heart and soothes the nervous system), magnesium (strengthens the bones, helps with migraines and depression), manganese and selenium (antioxidant effects) and zinc (boosts the immune system). Nuts are very rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, phospholipids and proteins. They have almost no carbohydrates. You can safely include them in even the strictest diets, but in small quantities - a handful (about 30 g) per day is sufficient and contains between 160 and 190 kcal.
Almonds
The royal nuts (according to legends they adored them in the royal court) are rich in vitamins B and E, minerals (calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc), fiber and fats: 86 % unsaturated fatty acids. They are good for the eyes and the brain and fight against asthma. The homeland of the almonds is west and middle Asia.
Hazelnuts
The homeland of the hazelnuts is Asia Minor (Anatolia). In ancient times, people believed that hazelnuts protect against lightning, bad luck, illness, snakes, mice, etc.
Today's hazelnuts are cultivated and have a thinner shell and a softer taste. They are extremely rich in vitamins B and E, magnesium, potassium and copper, fiber and fats: 88% unsaturated fatty acids. The high content of omega-3 fatty acids makes them indispensable in the fight against aging.
Cashew
Cashew is a thermophilic tree originating from the Amazon. In the language of the South American Indians, "akaju" means "yellow fruit", one of the many names of cashew. It is also called Indian walnut because India is a large producer of the nuts. Cashew is rich in vitamins B and A, iron, protein and unsaturated fatty acids.
Pistachio
Ancient Greeks called the pistachio a "magic nut". Today, Turkey is the largest producer. An interesting fact is that the fruits of the pistachio tree are harvested only by night, because intoxicating essential oils are released under the influence of the sun. Pistachio nuts are full of vitamins and minerals. They are useful against vomiting and liver diseases and protect the heart.
Walnuts
Walnut tree first appeared on the Caspian coast and in northern India. In Europe, nuts were imported from Roman merchants and the Greeks cultivated them because of the valuable walnut oil. Walnut are very rich in vitamins (group B, E, A, C), minerals (magnesium, iron, zinc, iodine, and phosphorus), fiber and fats: 86% unsaturated fatty acids. They are good for the liver and stomach, lowering blood cholesterol levels. It is laboratory tested that there is an ingredient in the walnuts, which can reduce tumor growth.
Peanuts
Peanuts are small, leguminous plants with underground fruits. Their homeland is South America. Peanuts are very saturated because they contain a large amount of fibers. They are extremely rich in folic acid, which slows down the aging process. They also contain resveratrol, the so useful ingredient to which the red wine owes its beneficial qualities. Resveratrol reduces the risk of cardiovascular and cancerous diseases. Peanuts lower cholesterol levels, improve memory and hearing.