Nuts are high in calories and extremely healthy for the heart, when you enjoy them in moderation, writes Manisha Mehta
Nuts help keep your heart healthy when eaten as part of a balanced diet. Besides protein, and antioxidants most nuts contain heart-healthy substance such as – Unsaturated fats, Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, Vitamin E, Plant sterols (a substance that lowers cholesterol levels) and L-arginine (a substance that improves the health of the artery walls by making them more flexible and less prone to clotting). Nuts make a great healthy snack. However, nuts are super high in calories and fat so it is important to practice portion control.
Almonds – The tasty almonds have high level of plant sterols. Sterols help reduce LDL – bad cholesterol. Almonds combat heart diseases and boosts cognitive functions. Also, it makes a delicious almond butter spread.