The Amazing Health Benefits of Hazelnuts
Health organizations worldwide recommend the daily intake of nuts in order to improve overall health. Hazelnuts have an abundance of amazing health benefits and are a tasty and filling source of nutrition.
Hazelnuts for a Healthy Heart
According to the FDA, consuming 1.5 ounces of hazelnuts per day can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Hazelnuts are a significant source of vitamin E (alpha-Tocopherol) which is an important fat-soluble vitamin and antioxidant which may help reduce the risk of heart disease. Just a one ounce serving of hazelnuts contains about 45 percent of the daily recommended intake of vitamin E.
Great Source of Folate for Pregnant Women
Hazelnuts contain the highest amount of folate of any nut. A 100 gram serving of hazelnuts contains 30 percent of the daily recommended value. Folate is a B-vitamin that is naturally found in foods. A form of folate, called folic acid, is extremely beneficial for women who are pregnant. Folic acid, or B9, aids in the growth and development of unborn babies and can prevent megaloblastic anemia and neural defects. Hazelnuts are a great and natural way to get your folate intake that will benefit both mother and baby.
Dietary Fiber Source
Hazelnuts are a great source of dietary fiber. In fact, a one ounce serving of raw hazelnuts provides 2.7 grams of dietary fiber. It is recommended that adults consume around 26 grams of dietary fiber per day. Dietary fiber is good for your digestion and can also help lower your cholesterol.
Mineral Rich with Manganese and Copper
Although hazelnuts are mineral rich in general, two minerals particularly stand out, and they are manganese and copper. Copper is important for iron absorption and iron helps metabolize proteins, assists in the production of hemoglobin and red blood cells, and can prevent anemia. Manganese is a vital mineral for bone formation and plays a role in fat and carbohydrate metabolism, calcium absorption and blood sugar regulation.
Improves Blood Cholesterol
Studies suggest that eating one gram of hazelnuts per kilo (2.2 pounds) of body weight can reduce the oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol. LDL cholesterol sticks to the walls of arteries, resulting in blood clots and can eventually lead to a heart attack or stroke.
At Hazelnut Hill, you can purchase hazelnuts in bulk, hazelnut chocolate and hazelnut candy for when you’re in need a sweet treat. All our hazelnuts are home-grown Oregon hazelnuts from our local orchard.