Friday, 11 June 2010

Walnuts


English Name: Walnuts

Common Indian (Hindi) Name: Akhroat

  • Walnuts are technically drupes or drupaceous nuts, and thus not true botanical nuts.
  • These are one of the best plant sources of protein.
  • They are rich in fiber, B vitamins, magnesium, and antioxidants such as Vitamins E.
  • Nuts in general are also high in plant sterols and fat - but mostly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (omega 3 fatty acids - the good fats) that have been shown to lower LDL cholesterol.
  • Walnuts, in particular, have significantly higher amounts of omega 3 fatty acids as compared to other nuts.
  • More than a decade of scientific evidence shows that incorporating walnuts in a healthy diet reduces the risk of heart disease by improving blood vessel elasticity and plaque accumulation.
  • Walnuts have also been shown to aid in the lowering LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) and the C-Reactive Protein (CRP). CRP was recently recognized as an independent marker and predictor of heart disease.

No comments: