California Walnuts | Essential Food for Health

Why Are Walnuts a Smart Snack?

Walnuts are a great snack because they are so good for you.

Walnuts are the only nut that contains a significant amount of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), the plant form of omega-3 fatty acid.
Walnuts contain no trans fat, no cholesterol and no sodium.
Walnuts are a nutrient dense whole food.
Walnuts are a rich source of selenium, melatonin, gamma tocopherol (a form of Vitamin E) and several polyphenols. In several studies, walnuts have been ranked as a whole food highest in antioxidants.
Walnut consumption has proven to significantly lower total cholesterol levels as well as LDL or “bad” cholesterol levels.
Current research shows that including walnuts in the diet can improve the function of arteries, which can further aid in the prevention of heart disease and stroke.
Walnuts are a good source of dietary fiber and protein. They are also a good source of folic acid, vitamin B6, magnesium, phosphorous, and copper. In addition, walnuts contain many antioxidants that may help protect cells from free radical damage.
Walnuts are one of the best known sources of melatonin, a powerful antioxidant that may be associated with reducing risk of developing Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s Disease, and certain types of cancer.