People who eat nuts gain less weight

People who eat nuts are more likely to maintain a steady weight and lower their risk of obesity.

That’s according to new research from Loma Linda University in California, during which diet and lifestyle information was gathered from more than 373,000 people in 10 European countries.

The researchers found participants gained an average of 2.1 kilograms during the five-year period of the study.

However, people who ate the most nuts not only had less weight gain but also a 5% lower risk of becoming overweight or obese.

Previous studies on nuts have found that they confer a variety of health benefits, including healthy ageing and memory function in older people.

This study, however, is the first time the link between nuts and weight has been investigated on such a large scale. Peanuts, which are technically a ground nut, were included in the study along with almonds, hazelnuts, pistachios and walnuts, which are classified as tree nuts.

The study’s lead author, Jose Sabaté, recommends that people eat nuts more often, pointing out that they offer energy, good fats, protein, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals.

“To me, this confirms that nuts are not an obesogenic food,” he said. “Eat nuts during your meal. Put them at the centre of your plate to replace animal products. They’re very satiating.”

I keep saying a handful of nuts is the way to start your day.