Buying Guide for Walnuts
Walnuts are nuts, and they are delicious. A little goes a long way in terms of enjoyment, but they are high in fat. Walnuts are high in Omega-3 Fatty Acids, which are great for heart health. They are also high in antioxidants, which are good for your skin. Walnuts are not just for snacking though, they are great for adding flavor to foods. They are great for baking and are used in both sweet and savory dishes. Read through our guide below to know more benefits of walnuts.
Benefits of Walnuts
Rich in Nutrients
A quarter cup of walnut halves about one ounce contains 18 grams of good fat, 4 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber, nearly half the daily recommended manganese intake, and small amounts of magnesium, iron, calcium, and B vitamins.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Anti-inflammatory properties are found in walnuts. Inflammation is the cause of many diseases such as diabetes, rheumatism, arthritis, etc. Regular consumption of walnuts can help fight these diseases.
Good for Skin and Hair
The body is most damaged by free radicals in the environment. These are the main causes of wrinkles and dry skin. Walnuts help combat these free radicals. Regular consumption of walnuts helps reduce dark circles under the eyes.
Boost Metabolism
A handful of walnuts can speed up a sluggish metabolism. Essential fatty acids are found in them and they aid digestion, growth and development, as well as other metabolic processes.
Factors to Consider before Buying Walnuts
Check for Allergies
It is well known that nuts such as tree nuts and peanuts are allergens. You should avoid them if this applies to you or someone in your family. Please consult a Registered Dietician for more specific advice.
Check for Added Oil
Oil-roasted nuts should be avoided. The natural oils in nuts would make adding more oil redundant, not to mention unhealthy.
Look for the Texture
You should look for uniform-colored shells when purchasing nuts in the shell. Don't purchase nuts in the shell that have cracked or holey shells. A plump nut will not rattle in the shell, signaling that it is not shriveled, and should feel heavy for its size. Make sure the shelled nuts are uniform, have a nice color, and are plump.
Better Storage
Nuts must be stored carefully because their fat content causes rancidity to set in shortly after they're shelled. Keeping shelled nuts in an airtight container in a cool, dry place is not a problem; they will keep for months. It is still best to keep nuts in their shells refrigerated during humid, warm summer months.
Conclusion
Walnuts are great for your health. We hope that you will use the information from this buying guide to help you choose walnuts that can help you save money and enjoy the health benefits for a long time to come. You can take a look at our selection of walnuts in the featured section above. We have reviewed and recommended them based on their portion size, taste, smell, and ingredient quality.
