If You’re Going To Go Nuts – Go Walnuts!

According to scientists, the health benefits of walnuts exceed all other nuts, and should be included more as part of a healthy diet. A research from the University of Scranton revealed that walnuts contained both quantity and quality of antioxidants, which help stop the chain reactions that damage cells in the body when free radicals are present. So if you’re going to go nuts – go WALNUTS. Below are just some of the major health benefits of walnuts.

Improve Sleep -Walnuts can help promote healthy sleep, thanks to their high protein content – which is important for mental alertness in particular. They also contain an amino acid called phenylalanine, which stimulates the brain to produce serotonin – which naturally stimulates the body to produce sleep-wake hormones, and the vitamin E contained in walnuts is believed to be highly anti-oxidant, so protect you brain against dementia and mood swings.

Weight Loss -A large walnut evokes the presence of two powerful enzymes, which turns the carbohydrates (and proteins) inside human body into an organic compound, twisted with enough twists to help expel the fatty acids and wastes from the body. Apparently, the more than dozen by-products of the humble walnut ultimately converts into an effective and highly pictorial anti-aging remedy.

Moisturizes Skin -Walnuts are specifically designed to keep the skin smooth and moisturized. As a natural moisturizer, walnut oil helps protect our skin from dryness, making it look and feel younger. This is why it is commonly used in soaps and beauty products. Walnuts are also made into face cream.

Relieves Constipation -Having a daily bowel movement is one of the best ways to ensure that your digestive system is working properly. Walnuts are packed with antibacterial properties, which help cause cramps when taken in small quantities. Cramps are very common in children and seniors, so keep those around you healthy.

A Healthy Heart – walnuts also include anthocyanins. This secondary complex carbohydrate is what provides many of the heart benefits for walnuts. This means thatWalnuts help protect LDL “low-density lipoprotein” and prevent heart attacks and artery blockages.

Gain Energy – walnuts are rich in protein, and an energy-boosting B-vitamin called phenylalanine. In one study, athletes ingesting national team walnuts about three times a week were able to draw more power even after exhausting all the tests.

Restore Health and Diversity – walnuts are the largest single protein source in the world. And that’s not even mentioning how walnuts are huge! Did you know that walnuts are a super power source of antioxidants? Amazing, isn’t it? They work by neutralizing free radicals – chemical substances in the body linked to illnesses ranging from cancer to heart disease. By saving our skin from wrinkles and heart disease, walnuts are truly one of the great super foods.

Alzheimer’s and Age-Related Cognitive Decline – A recent study by the University of Pennsylvania and policy research experts showed that walnuts protect the brain cells that have been damaged by oxidative stress, a major cause of Alzheimer’s. So bread with walnuts may be your new best friend.

Diuretic and Digestive System Benefits – Walnuts are diuretic and laxative, which means they help remove toxins from the body. They are also an excellent source of vitamin A, potassium, and zinc, which along with fiber, helps maintain a healthy body weight.

Fiber and Gluten-free Benefits – Walnuts are an excellent source of fiber and gluten-free benefits. Fiber plays a role in improving digestion health, relieving constipation, and lowering blood cholesterol. In addition, some diabetics benefit from eating Walnuts. A recent study shows that eating a handful of nuts can lower a person’s risk of developing Type II diabetes.

Although many people with Alzheimer’s disease have improved motor skills with their daily consumption of walnuts, one such study that researched Alzheimer’s disease found that those who ate four or more walnut halves a week had an improved memory compared to those who did not.

Although Omega-3 fatty acids benefits have yet to be scientifically proven, omega-3 fatty acids can increase memory function and influence inflammatory processes, heart health and even helps to protect our immune system. So could fish oil, why not walnuts?

Orto-organic olive oil- organic sunflower oil- organic soybean oil

1 tbs. extra-virgin olive oil1/4 cup basil, coarsely chopped1 tbs. extra-virgin olive oil blend1/4 cup grated lemon zest2 tsp. dried rosemary1/2 tsp.