Nutrition From Nuts and Seeds

Some nuts and seeds have high amounts of nutrients that are needed by your body and can help ward off certain diseases. They are concentrated nutrition that should be part of your regular diet.

Calcium and magnesium, which are needed to prevent osteoporosis and maintain structure of bones, can be found in almonds, pistachios, hazel nuts and pumpkin seeds. Sesame seeds and pumpkin seeds both have zinc that the prostate gland uses to produce fertile sperm.

If your doctor has indicated you need more iron try sunflower seeds and pistachios. They both have high amounts of it. Potassium is a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and can be found in chestnuts and sunflower seeds.

Pregnant women who need folic acid can try pistachios which have a high concentration of this. Menopausal women should know that almonds, Brazil nuts and hazelnuts are high in vitamin E which can help ease their symptoms. Brazil nuts also have selenium which is an antioxidant that protects against heart disease.

Some studies have shown that certain nuts and seeds can help prevent disease. Walnuts, which have ellagic acid, and almonds, which have oleic acid, are said to have anti-cancer properties. Flax seeds are another food that may have many benefits. They are supposed to have anti-tumor properties linked to lower incident of breast and colon cancer. Flax seeds also contain phytoestrogans which are known to help balance hormone levels.

Check with your doctor and add appropriate amounts of nuts and seeds to your diet. They are not only a great, delicious snack food, they can be added to many recipes for a unique taste.

Ann is a home based business entrepreneur who researches and reviews many products and writes about her personal interests. Visit her newest site Grind and Brew Coffee Makers for great information on Cuisinart Grind and Brew coffee makers.