Heart Healthy Nuts? Add Walnuts to Your Menu Plan

Nuts are full of nutrients and to many, are considered a super food. Walnuts have proven to be quite beneficial when added to a heart healthy diet. Not only do they contain an abundance of omega 3 fatty acids, fourteen walnut halves contain 4 grams of protein. People who are trying to lose weight must monitor how much they consume because of their calorie content. Along with the protein, fourteen halves also contain 185 calories.

The amount of fat contained in walnuts (18 grams) helps the body to function more efficiently. Many people who are trying to lose weight will cut the amount of fat they consume. They forget that the brain needs fat to perform. The same is true for the muscles and joints. Without adequate amounts of fat, muscles and joints can become stiff and slow to respond. The key to solving these problems is to limit the wrong kinds of fat and increase the right kinds.

Fats and proteins found in walnuts and other heart healthy nuts are easily assimilated by the body. They do not accumulate in arteries or add to fatty deposits in the body. While most nuts offer vital nutrients and are beneficial to the heart, it is important to eat them in moderation. Just like any other healthy food, too much is sometimes a bad thing. The amount of calories they contain can actually hinder a person's ability to lose weight.

Instead of eating nuts by the handful, include them in recipes. This is an easy way to monitor portion control while still being able to enjoy the flavor and texture of foods you love.