Nuts contain healthy unsaturated fats, protein, fiber, and other nutrients

Nuts are flavorful little packages of healthy unsaturated fats, protein, fiber, and other nutrients.

For example, peanuts and pecans contain lots of B vitamins; almonds are rich in calcium and vitamin E; walnuts have lots of folate, vitamin E, and alpha-linoleic acid (ALA, an omega-3 fatty acid). And all nuts have magnesium.

“In just a handful of nuts, which is about an ounce or a quarter of a cup, you get a lot of bang for the buck. They contain anywhere from 3 to 7 grams of protein per ounce, 1 to 3 grams of fiber, and 160 to 200 calories,” says registered dietitian Kathy McManus, director of the Department of Nutrition at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

Nuts and seeds are also rich in fiber, which is important for gut health and keeping you regular.

Sensational seeds

Tiny little seeds are also loaded with great big benefits. In one tablespoon of chia seeds, for example, you’ll get 2 grams of protein, 4 grams of fiber, and 78 milligrams of calcium. A tablespoon of flaxseed has 2 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber. Hemp seeds contain only 1 gram of fiber in a tablespoon, but 10 grams of protein.

“Seeds have mostly healthy fats, some fiber, and about 150 calories per ounce. And they do have protein, about 5 to 9 grams per ounce,” McManus notes. “Flaxseeds and chia seeds are also good sources of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, with two or three times the ALA of walnuts.”

You can overdo it when it comes to nut and seeds consumption. “If you eat more than one or two handfuls of nuts per day, you’re adding extra calories — maybe too many — that can take the place of other healthy foods and add weight,” McManus warns.

Think in terms of small portions. Have a handful of nuts or seeds for a snack. Or add a few nuts and seeds to meals throughout the day.

Harvard health publishing

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