The ancient history of nuts and their wide application
Nuts have been very important in the human diet for thousands of years. Archaeological findings show that fruits such as hazelnuts and almonds were part of the diet of people in the Paleolithic era, while in ancient Greece the walnut was a symbol of fertility. Their oils were used in cosmetics, cooking and medicine.
The ancient Romans also used nuts, especially hazelnuts, in their diet and as an ingredient for the preparation of wine. During the Middle Ages, trade in nuts became a significant part of the world economy, and they spread from Asia to Europe, thanks to merchants on the Silk Roads.
In the Renaissance period, nuts were considered a luxury food and were used to prepare rich dishes. During the colonial era, European powers discovered new types of nuts in the countries they colonized, so peanuts, cashews and Brazil nuts became popular in the world, and industrial modernization and technological progress enabled mass production.
Nuts in the modern diet and their health benefits
Today, nuts are an essential part of different cuisines and diets around the world. They are rich in proteins, healthy fats, minerals, vitamins and fiber. Nuts are extremely nutritionally rich, but their caloric value is also high, therefore moderate consumption is recommended to ensure the necessary nutrients. They are used as a healthy snack, an addition to meals, as well as in the food industry for the production of butter, oil, milk, etc.
Even today, nut oils are extremely applicable in cosmetics and homeopathic medicine, as well as in nutrition. Due to their high nutrient content and wide use, nuts are an indispensable food in any healthy diet.
Health benefits of certain nuts
Walnut – Heart, Brain and More Health
Walnut is a fruit that we certainly often found in cakes and pies as children. However, what we didn't know at the time was how important the walnut actually is to our health. Walnuts are rich in Omega 3 fats, which are extremely important for heart health.
Regular consumption of walnuts can reduce the risk of heart disease, improve brain health, reduce inflammatory processes in the body, and also maintain gut health and help maintain body weight. Walnuts are a source of fiber and protein, as well as vitamins E and B group, minerals such as magnesium, copper and zinc. They are rich in antioxidants, so they bind free radicals and prevent cell damage, reducing the possibility of the development of cancerous cells.
They can be eaten raw, roasted, blanched or as an ingredient in savory or sweet dishes. How healthy walnuts are is shown by the fact that during the Middle Ages they were considered a symbol of wealth and power, and were even used as currency.
Cashew – A healthy alternative and a good source of vitamin E
Cashew nut It originates from South America, but today it is cultivated in different parts of the world, including India, Brazil and some parts of Africa. Cashews are rich in healthy fats and especially vitamin E, responsible for healthy skin, hair and nails. It contains proteins, minerals, fibers and carbohydrates, as well as antioxidants.
It is used to prepare cashew oil and butter, which are healthy alternatives for a vegan diet. Cashew oil is widely used in cosmetics, as well as in the pharmaceutical industry.
Peanuts - A source of protein and nutrients
Peanuts it originates from South America, but today it can be found on all meridians and has become an indispensable source of protein in many cuisines. Peanuts contain healthy fats, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which is why they are an important food for maintaining the health of the heart and brain, and also reduce the risk of some types of tumors. It can be eaten in various ways and combined with different dishes.
Almond – Mild taste and numerous health benefits
Almond was mostly cultivated in Central Asia and the Mediterranean, and in modern times it is also cultivated in other parts of the world. Almonds are highly nutritious and contain healthy fats, minerals, vitamins and fiber. Almond consumption is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and regulation of blood sugar levels.
Almond milk, flour, and oil are widely used in nutrition, and the almond is also considered a symbol of good luck, fertility, and longevity in some cultures.
Pistachios - Superfood with antioxidants
Pistachios they come from Western Asia and the Mediterranean, and have been cultivated for 7000 years. Pistachios are often used in cooking to add crunch and flavor, and are considered a superfood for their anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory abilities. They are also traditionally used as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.
Hazelnuts - Universally present nuts
Hazelnuts are grown today all over the world and are widely used in cooking due to their wide application and possibility of combining, nice taste and nutritious ingredients. Eating hazelnuts has a beneficial effect on health due to the high content of minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. Hazelnut oil is often used in cosmetics, and the hazelnut is a symbol of wisdom, fertility and prosperity in some cultures.
Pine nuts – Rich pine nuts
Pinioli are part of the diet of ancient civilizations and are often used in Mediterranean cuisine. They are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Pine nuts are used in dishes such as pesto sauce, salads, pastries and desserts.
Nuts - The key to a healthy diet
Nuts are an extremely important ingredient in the diet. In addition to helping to maintain the good health of the entire organism, they improve the quality of hair and skin and supply the body with essential fatty acids Omega 3 and Omega 6 that our body cannot produce on its own.
It is enough to consume small amounts for a full effect on health, so choose your favorite variant and enjoy healthy snacks that are not only tasty, but also useful for the overall well-being of the body. Tell us in the comments how nuts have affected your health and share interesting recipes with us.
