Hazelnuts, like all tree nuts, have great health benefits. Here is a quick snapshot of why it is most definitely worth including hazelnuts in your diet:
- Nutrient dense: Hazelnuts are a rich source of mono- and polyunsaturated fats, and contain a decent amount of omega-3 and omega-9 fatty acids. Hazelnuts are notably rich in manganese and copper, as well as Vitamin E, Thiamin and Vitamin B6.
- Antioxidants: Hazelnuts are packed with antioxidants, and there are various studies that have demonstrated that eating hazelnuts regularly significantly reduces oxidative stress on the body.
- May promote heart health: The significant amounts of antioxidants and healthy fats in hazelnuts may lower levels of 'bad' (LDL) cholesterol. There are several studies that have confirmed this - also showing that the 'good' (HDL) cholesterol and triglycerides stay unchanged.
- May reduce risk of cancer: The high proportion of antioxidants - in particular proanthocyanidins - that are in hazelnuts may contribute to protection against cell damage that could cause or promote cancer. The high proportion of manganese in hazelnuts would also help, since manganese has been found to help enzymes reduce oxidative damage and decrease the risk of cancer.
- May decrease inflammation: The healthy fats in hazelnuts contribute to their links with reduction in inflammatory markers. Again, there are a range of studies that have demonstrated this, in people with high cholesterol, overweight and obese people, and also healthy people.