Health benefits of pine nuts
Pine nuts or say, chilgoza pine nuts are one of the most nutritional species of pine. They are edible seeds of pine tree fruit and are sweeter in taste. Some pine eaters, however, complain of bitter and metallic taste one or three days after their consumption (pine nut syndrome). Chilgoza pines have a buttery texture and are low in calories. They make for the best healthy snack and are thus, preferred by diabetics or people on a weight loss journey. In this article, we will discuss the amazing health benefits of pine nuts. Take a look.
Manage diabetes Diabetes is mainly associated with increased oxidative stress in the body. A study has shown that oral administration of pine nuts can improve insulin resistance and decrease fasting blood glucose by reducing oxidative damage to the liver. Pine nuts can be used as a potential therapeutic food item in the prevention and management of hyperglycemia.
Prevent heart diseases Impaired vascular functions are linked to increased risk of heart diseases. According to a study, nuts such as pine nuts can improve vascular functions and decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as coronary heart disease. This is because they are rich in folate, magnesium, vitamin E, arginine, potassium along with polyphenols and healthy fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats).
Help with weight loss A study has shown that ellagic acid, a naturally occurring polyphenol in nuts are effective in attenuating obesity and related complications such as insulin resistance, fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes. As pine nuts are also rich in ellagic acid, their consumption can help reduce adipose tissues and effectively manage obesity.
Have anticancer potential Polyphenols in pine nuts have great anticancer potential and may help prevent cell division, which is the main cause of cancer. According to a study, dietary polyphenols in pine nuts may help
reduce the risk of prostate cancer, lung cancer and other cancer types by inducing apoptosis that helps remove cancerous cells and maintains balance in the body. Also, selenium in the nuts may also help reduce the risk of cancer.
Reduce ageing Ageing is the major risk factor for chronic diseases, mainly due to chronic inflammation and oxidative damage. As pine nuts are highly packed with antioxidant compounds, they may help improve endothelial functions and reduce inflammatory biomarkers, thus positively reducing the ageing factors and associated cognitive decline.
May reduce allergy risk in children Nut allergy is the most common food allergy in children. According to a study, high consumption of tree nuts by non-allergic pregnant women can help reduce the risk of nut allergy in children. The consumption of pine nuts is effective in reducing nut allergy at a genetic level. However, more research is needed in the area. Some studies also suggest that pine nuts are a good alternative for people with wheat allergy as they are gluten-free.
Boost immunity The high content of minerals such as manganese, potassium, calcium, zinc, iron and selenium in pine nuts may help boost immunity effectively. They help improve the immune functions by increasing the number of white blood cells which in turn, help fight the pathogens and strengthen the immunity.