Nutrition education website nutsforlife.com.au, an initiative established by the tree nut industry, aims to enlighten us on the latest scientific findings on nuts and their role in health and wellbeing. Although this isn’t an independent site free from commercial interests, it does contain lots of interesting facts on one of my favourite snacks. Plus there are heaps of delicious recipes that don’t seem all that difficult to make! The latest is Pine Nut Pesto Pasta, which looks like the most divine vegetarian pasta dish I have ever laid eyes on. Or if you’re a sweet tooth perhaps the Pecan Plum Pudding is more your style! The only discernable similarity in all these recipes is that they contain tree nuts – of course – which include almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, chestnuts, hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios and walnuts. Though it seems not all nuts are created equally with different varieties having varying degrees of beneficial nutrients as well as fat. Check out Dr Sear’s nutritional breakdown – it appears the raw and unsalted almond wins hands down.
A few nutty facts!
* An average serve of nuts provides more than 20% of recommended daily intake of Vitamin E, an important antioxidant.
* Eating nuts regularly may reduce the risk of developing heart disease and prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes.
* A handful of nuts five or more times a week can help you achieve and maintain a healthy body weight.
So go nuts I say! A large variety of quality nuts can be found at The Nut Market on James Street in Fortitude Valley or for a cheaper alternative check out Coles for their home brand Raw Nut Delight packs. A leisurely stroll through one of Brisbane’s fresh fruit and vegetable markets will also uncover some fresh, home grown choices. Try New Farm’s Farmers Markets every second Saturday from 7am to 12 noon at the Brisbane Powerhouse – it’s described as a feast for the senses!
