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walnuts and almonds

SNACKS BASED ON DRIED FRUITS

Nut-based snacks emerge as a nutritious and satisfying alternative to ultra-processed snacks high in refined carbohydrates.

In the constant search for healthy options, snacks are often considered the weak link in our dietary choices. However, with a conscious and deliberate approach, snacks can become valuable allies in our quest to maintain a balanced and healthy diet.

 

Consumption of nuts as a snack vs consumption of snacks high in refined carbohydrates

 

Next, we will explore the benefits of incorporating these delicious snacks into our daily diet without jeopardizing our overall diet.

1. Satisfaction:

Nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, and pistachios, are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them highly satiating snack options.

Unlike high-carbohydrate snacks, which can cause spikes and drops in blood sugar levels, nuts provide a more stable release of energy, keeping us satisfied longer and preventing unwanted cravings.

2. Weight Control:

Incorporating nut-based snacks into our diet can contribute to weight control in several ways. The combination of healthy fats and protein in nuts promotes feelings of fullness, which can help reduce overall calorie intake throughout the day.

Additionally, the fiber present in nuts also plays a crucial role in slowing down digestion and promoting satiety, which can help avoid over-consumption of unhealthy foods.

3. Benefits for Cardiovascular Health:

Numerous studies have shown that regular consumption of nuts is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases. This is due in part to its unique nutritional profile, which includes unsaturated fats, antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds that help improve heart health.

By choosing nut-based snacks instead of high-carbohydrate options, we are choosing to promote long-term cardiovascular health.

 

Nuts have a nutritional profile rich in macronutrients: unsaturated fats, as well as bioactive compounds and fiber

4. Diabetes Control and Metabolic Health:

For those concerned about blood sugar control and metabolic health, nut-based snacks offer a superior alternative to high-carbohydrate snacks.

Due to their low glycemic index and ability to improve insulin sensitivity, nuts can help stabilize blood glucose levels. They reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Additionally, their robust nutritional profile makes them a smart choice for weight management and metabolic risk factors.

It is important to mention that during menopause, there is a significant decrease in estrogen levels, accompanied by an increase in fat accumulation.

This hormonal imbalance towards a higher androgen/estrogen ratio during the menopausal transition promotes the accumulation of abdominal fat.

Abdominal fat contributes to insulin resistance and a cascade of effects that increase the risk of metabolic syndrome.

Research indicates that dietary factors, particularly the Mediterranean diet, may modulate the metabolic syndrome phenotype. Nuts, typical of this dietary pattern, play a crucial role in promoting health benefits at this stage.

5. Nutrition:

In addition to their specific health benefits, nuts are also a rich source of a variety of essential nutrients.

Containing omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, magnesium and zinc, nuts offer a wide range of nutrients that contribute to the body's general health.

By including them regularly in our diet, we can be sure that we are providing our body with the necessary elements to function optimally and stay healthy in the long term.

 

Nuts provide essential nutrients that we do not obtain by consuming ultra-processed snacks

 

In short, opting for nut-based snacks instead of high-carbohydrate snacks can make a big difference in our overall health and well-being.

From promoting satiety and weight management to protecting cardiovascular and metabolic health, nuts offer a multitude of benefits that make them a smart choice for anyone looking to improve their diet.

By making small changes to our daily eating habits, we can reap big rewards in terms of long-term health.

Choosing the most appropriate snacks is an important part of our diet, do not hesitate to opt for nuts if you need them, but I would go further to say that, sometimes, the best snack is the one that is not consumed.

And I say goodbye as always, wishing you Health!

 

Sources:

– Sumislawski, K., Widmer, A., Suro, RR, Robles, ME, Lillegard, K., Olson, D., Koethe, JR, & Silver, HJ (2023). Consumption of tree nuts as snacks reduces metabolic syndrome risk in young adults: a randomized trial. Nutrients15(24), 5051. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15245051

– Bauset, C., Martínez-Aspas, A., Smith-Ballester, S., García-Vigara, A., Monllor-Tormos, A., Kadi, F., Nilsson, A., & Cano, A. ( 2022). Nuts and Metabolic Syndrome: Reducing the Burden of Metabolic Syndrome in Menopause. Nutrients14(8), 1677. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14081677

 

I leave you an idea to prepare a snack based on nuts…

 

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