We all have childhood stories of our mothers and grandmothers trying to feed us nuts. As they say, moms know best.
Nuts are a super-food that helps in weight loss while providing you nutrition. An ideal Keto snack option boasting low-carb and high-fats, nuts are rich in vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber. While you can pick any nuts of your choice, there’re few which are more beneficial than others. In this article, we will discuss the best nuts to choose for your Keto diet and their benefits.
- Pecan:
Pecan is the most Keto-effective nuts available. Research proves that one ounce of Pecans contains 20 grams of fat and only 1 gram of net carbs. Loaded with a host of nutritional benefits, pecans are not only low in carbs and high in fat but also enriched with the goodness of important nutrients like phosphorus, zinc and thiamine (vitamin B1). They help in the reduction of insulin levels which is necessary for losing weight.
Pro tip: Eat Pecan as a snack or use them as a crust for your fish or chicken meals.
- Brazil Nuts:
Brazil nuts are found in South America. They’re a rich source of Selenium which boosts fertility and reproduction. It has been noted that the Keto diet leads to Selenium deficiency. The good news is that you only require a single Brazil nut is enough to fulfil your daily Selenium requirement.
- Chia Seeds:
Chia seeds are tiny beads of magic that help you reduce your waistline like nobody’s business. They contain high levels of essential fats. As per research, 60% of their fat content is Omega-3. Sprinkle them on your smoothies and enjoy your ride to a healthier body.
Pro tip: You can make a delicious Chia pudding by soaking the seeds for a few hours.
- Macadamia Nuts:
Macadamia nuts originate from Australia and are a favorite amongst Keto enthusiast. They help in improving cholesterol levels and are beneficial for heart health. As per studies, they help in increasing good cholesterol and decreasing bad cholesterol.
Pro tip: You can include Macadamia in your diet by using them in Keto-friendly butter and flour.
- Peanuts:
Peanuts are considered more of a legume and less of a nut. But, they’re easily available and very popular. They contain amino acids which help in muscle building. They’re a delicious snack in themselves and are also a great addition in smoothies. If you’re an Asian, you will have hundreds of recipes with peanuts.
- Walnuts:
Walnuts are found all over the world. They contain a high amount of good fat which helps in maintaining cholesterol and blood pressure. You can enjoy them in Keto-friendly brownies and fudge.A
- Almonds
Regarded as one of nature’s most nutrition-rich “superfoods”, almonds boast of a rich content of heart-healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. In fact, research has proven that a diet rich in almonds stimulates weight loss by reducing hunger and curbing appetite. What’s more? Whole almonds couple well with a variety of foods and make a convenient option for snacking on the go.
Pro Tip: Almond flour is a great substitute for traditional all-purpose flour and can be incorporated into your keto regime to make low-carb versions of muffins, pancakes, and crackers.
THE VERDICT:
Nuts are crunchy, delicious and the best source of all kinds of nutrition. They’re a snack and they can also add a distinct flavor to a variety of recipes.
It’s a blessing that they’re an integral part of the Keto diet. Their inclusion helps in maintaining your health while accelerating your weight loss process.
So, stop resorting to complicated, unhealthy snacks when you can easily have a handful of your favorite nuts.