Walnuts can be really fun snacks, just absentmindedly breaking the shells and popping them in your mouth while watching a movie instead of popcorn, or on a really long road trip. They can also be used in creating a variety of really tasty dishes and desserts. They taste quite pleasant but don’t remain the same if you drink some water afterward. The water will taste slightly bitter in your mouth, and walnuts do make you thirsty so it’s kind of hard avoiding that. This reason has been found to be the most used why people avoid the nut. But the good news is the aftertaste is nothing compared to the numerous benefits you get from eating walnuts. Here are 6 benefits of eating walnuts:
- REDUCES RISKS OF SOME CANCERS
Research has proven that eating walnuts significantly reduces the risks of some cancers such as breast cancer and prostate cancer. They contain polyphenols that serve anti-inflammatory purposes in your body which in turn reduces the risk of cancerous cells developing.
- HELPS MANAGE AND LOWER RISKS OF DIABETES
Walnuts are just the thing for controlling weight as although they contain calories, the energy absorbed from them is 22% lower than normal. The lesser weight helps you manage diabetes and also goes a long way in reducing the risk of developing the illness.
- HEALTHY BRAINS
Studies have shown that the consumption of walnuts has helped to manage the decline in cognitive abilities in older adults. The polyphenolic compounds reduce inflammation of brain cells, help in the formation of new brain cells and also improve signaling between the cells. This reduces the risk of neurologically related illnesses in older adults.
- SOURCE OF OMEGA 3
Omega 3 acids are known to reduce inflammation in the body. Walnuts are a great source of these as eating a single serving every day provides you with 60 percent of the recommended daily need. Research also shows that an increase in omega-3 levels in the body also helps to reduce body mass.
- HEALTHY HEARTS.
Walnuts contain a healthy amount of bioactive components that help to regulate harmful bacteria in the gut. The benefit of this is reduced blood pressure and cholesterol levels in the body which helps to reduce the risks of stroke, heart attacks, and other heart-related diseases.
- BOOST IMMUNITY.
Walnuts are a wonderful source of antioxidants. Antioxidants are an essential make-up for a functioning immune system and the addition of walnuts to your diet gives you another avenue to take in much-needed antioxidants.
Perhaps the bitter aftertaste is a small price to pay, or alternatively, you can just avoid that by using walnuts to cook various dishes.
