Go nuts with Nuts

Nuts are good for the heart, say researchers from Harvard Medical School and the Harvard School of Public Health.

According to the study, healthy men and those who have already suffered a heart attack can reduce cardiovascular risk by eating nuts regularly. Researchers hypothesize that;

• Nuts help lower cholesterol.


• Nuts contain mono-and poly-unsaturated fats known to benefit the heart.


• The Omega 3 fats found in walnuts may protect against irregular heart rythms.


• Nuts are rich in arginine, a substance that may improve blood vessel function.


• Other nutrients in nuts including fiber may also help lower cardiovascular risk.

Nuts are high in calories. Researchers advice that if you add nuts to your diet, cut back on something else. Substitute nuts for chips or cookies, but avoid nuts that are fried in oil or loaded with salt.

By themselves, nuts seem to produce modest declines in cholesterol, but when they are combine with other healthful foods, the results can be dramatic...