Snacks can get us into trouble.  When we are searching for the perfect food to sustain us between meals, we often go for what we crave.  We want salty, sweet, or fatty foods that can put us over our caloric limit for the day.  One bad snack is all it takes to ruin a day’s healthy diet.
Luckily, there is one salty, fatty snack that we can consume without all the guilt – nuts!  Whether you crave the sweetness of almonds, the creaminess of cashews, or the crunch of pistachios, there’s a healthy nut for everyone.  Here are a few great choices deciding which nuts you prefer:

Pistachios.

You may have seen this nut featured in popular commercials, and there’s a reason that you should be paying attention.  Pistachios are health-boosting in a number of ways.  Recent studies show that they help your cardiovascular system by decreasing cholesterol and increasing antioxidant levels.  These specific antioxidants reduce inflammation and plaque in blood vessels, potentially reducing the risk of later heart attacks and strokes.

Almonds.

Feeling a little under the weather?  These nuts are loaded with nutrients that will boost your immune system.  Thanks to high levels of vitamin E, vitamin B, and magnesium, they are a delicious way to fight those nasty colds going around this season.

Walnuts.

Packed with omega-3 fats, these nuts help to fight inflammation associated with everything from arthritis to heart disease.  Not only that, but they are also full of alpha linoleic acid (ALA) which may decrease heart arrhythmias and naturally clears out arteries after a fatty meal.

Peanuts.

Okay, these are technically legumes, but they still pack a punch when it comes to nutrients.  Peanuts have high levels of folate, a mineral that protects against cognitive declined.  They also help the brain with their healthy fats and vitamin E.

Pecans.

While they’re not they healthiest baked into a pie, pecans can do great things, especially for men.  They are loaded with beta-sitosterol, a plant steroid that relieves symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, a.k.a enlarged prostate.
So, the next time you’re searching for something to snack on, grab a handful of nuts instead of something too sweet or sugary.  They’ll satisfy your cravings and keep you feeling great! Visit Freedom Home Care for specialized in-home senior care. Call us today to learn more!