Pine nut is actually a seed produced by a certain variety of pine tree. They are tiny, but do not underestimate its goodness. Pine nuts are an excellent source of iron, manganese, copper, magnesium & high monounsaturated fat, which keeps the cardiovascular system healthy.
It’s also packed with vitamins A, C & D, which boost the immune system. Pine nuts contain almost three milligrams of iron in one-ounce serving. They are also higher in protein than most nuts & are a good source of thiamine, potassium & phosphorus. Pine nuts are best kept in the refrigerator, in airtight containers.
Pine Nut History
The eating of pine nuts dates back to ancient Greek and Roman times when they were commonly preserved in honey. Pine nuts were a common food for Native American Indians of various tribes, as well as Latino, Mediterranean, and Oriental cultures.
As such, pine nuts are known by many names including Indian nuts, pinon, pignon, pignolia, pignoli, pinolos, pinhao, and pignole.
Health Benefits
Listed are a few health benefits of pine cones and the reasons why you should add them to your diet
Pine nuts can be a potent appetite suppressor as they are a good source of a polyunsaturated fat known as pinolenic acid. When you eat a handful of pine nuts, the pinolenic acid stimulates the secretion of a hormone produced by the intestines known as CCK. CCK sends the signal to your brain that you’re full which turns off your appetite.
Pine nuts are nutritional powerhouses. A single serving of the pine nut can provide up to fourteen grams of protein per serving, depending upon the species. Pine nuts are anywhere from ten to thirty-four percent protein.
Pine nuts are also an excellent source of fiber as well as vitamins E, K, and niacin. In terms of minerals, they’re an excellent source of magnesium and potassium which is important for maintaining a healthy heart and blood pressure.
Pine nuts are high in monounsaturated fats, which have been shown to reduce blood cholesterol levels and also help to protect the arteries from damage which can lead to a heart attack.
Pine nuts are also high in antioxidants which help to protect the cells of the body from free radical damage.
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