Low Glycemic Index Foods – Enjoying Healthy Nuts

People are continuously looking for healthy foods that taste good and can also fill them up. Low glycemic index foods (also referred to as GI) include nuts which are a wonderful treat. They are healthy and contain loads of vitamins, minerals and good fats. They are also good for your heart.

The great thing is that there are plenty of different types ranging from walnuts to almonds to cashews amongst several others. What you might not know is that in each nut you'll find more than just tasty flavor, you'll also find huge health benefits.

Given below are some of the most fascinating facts about the benefits of some of the world's tastiest nuts:

Cashews – Cashews have a GI of 22 , which is very low and extremely healthy. People can easily become full after eating only a handful of cashews and keep their hunger under wraps for hours after consumption. Cashews are probably one of the most popular snack foods in the world and also contain fat, but not the kind that people should steer clear of. Cashews contain unsaturated fatty acids called oleic acid, which is a type of fat that is very good for the heart.

Macademias – These are considered favorites by many . Macademias contain a generous amount of magnesium, protein, fiber, healthy monounsaturated fats, and potassium. They help to provide an energy boost, and can also provide a lift in mood. The fiber helps with digestive health and staying full. Another great thing about these is that they help to lower bad cholesterol. They have a GI of 0, meaning that there is no effect on blood sugar levels whatsoever. It's the perfect healthy snack!

Walnuts – Walnuts are packed full of health benefits. They contain 16 polyphenols, 3 tannins, and an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids. They also contain ellagic acid, which helps to strengthen the immune system and fight cancer. Walnuts are great for helping out with asthma, eczema, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis. They have a GI of 0.

Almonds – Almonds have a GI of 0 , and has no effect on blood sugar levels. Anyone can consume this tasty snack and not have to worry about getting hungry again for at least a few hours. Almonds are great for people who are dieting. Those with heart problems will especially benefit from the cholesterol-lowering benefits these almonds contain. They are also rich in copper, potassium, vitamin E, manganese, selenium, and calcium.

Brazil – These have a GI of 0 and they contain an abundance of selenium, which can help to fight off breast cancer and neutralize free radicals. They are also rich in vitamin E, fiber, magnesium, niacin, copper, and protein.

Pecans – Studies have shown that eating just 3/4 cups of pecans per day may potentially clear the arteries and lower bad cholesterol. Pecans have a GI of 0. They also contain an abundance of B vitamins, phosphorus, copper, vitamin E and A, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, along with several other necessary nutrients.

Enjoy them moderately, use them to add flavor to snacks, salads and more. Just remember they do have a high caloric count – so moderation is the key.