In a recent study by Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School1 it was determined that there is an association between an increase in nut consumption and a decreased risk of pancreatic cysts and cancer.
The study shows that eating a one-ounce serving of nuts at least twice a week decreases your chance of developing a pancreatic pseudocysts, or cancerous cysts.
Five Healthiest Nuts
Here are a few of the healthiest nuts to have for your go-to afternoon snack:
1. Almonds
Almonds are considered a super food because they’re high in Vitamin E, fiber, calcium, zinc and folic acid. They are the most nutrient-dense nut and a tasty snack!
2. Walnuts
Walnuts contain the highest amount of antioxidants. Not only can they help protect you against pancreatic cancer, but they also lower your risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
3. Cashews
Cashews are a great source of magnesium, calcium, vitamin B and folic acid. They also contain twice as much iron as ground beef.
4. Pecans
Pecans are antixodant-rich, making them powerful in protecting you against cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and heart disease.
5. Brazil Nuts
Studies show that Brazil Nuts can protect you against certain cancers, skin disorders and anxiety. Due to the high selenium content, consuming Brazil Nuts even help reduce asthma.
1. Bao Y, Hu FB, Giovannucci EL, Wolpin BM, Stampfer MJ, Willett WC, Fuchs CS. “Nut consumption and risk of pancreatic cancer in women.” PubMed. 26 Nov 2013. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24149179.