Healthy Nuts: An A-Z Guide
Almonds
Studies show that a handful a day–about 23 almonds–can help lower LDL cholesterol levels and fight inflammation.
![Brazil Nuts](http://img1.cookinglight.timeinc.net/sites/default/files/styles/400xvariable/public/image/Oxmoor/oh3476p210-brazil-nuts-m.jpg?itok=6YZUH699)
Brazil Nuts
They pack a punch of selenium, a mineral and antioxidant that may help prevent certain types of cancer.
![Cashews](http://img1.cookinglight.timeinc.net/sites/default/files/styles/400xvariable/public/image/Oxmoor/oh3476p210-cashews-m.jpg?itok=F1WSYpDP)
Cashews
High in oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat also found in olive oil, cashews may help reduce blood pressure.
![Chestnuts](http://img1.cookinglight.timeinc.net/sites/default/files/styles/400xvariable/public/image/Oxmoor/oh3476p210-chestnuts-m.jpg?itok=hk-o54KR)
Chestnuts
Chestnuts contain a high amount of starch and little oil–1 ounce contains just 0.5g total fat. They also offer a healthy dose of potassium.
![Hazelnuts](http://img1.cookinglight.timeinc.net/sites/default/files/styles/400xvariable/public/image/Oxmoor/oh3476p210-hazelnuts-m.jpg?itok=QCkdNZsp)
Hazelnuts
They’re an excellent source of vitamin E, dietary fiber, magnesium, and a heart-healthy compound called proanthocyanidin.
![Macadamia Nuts](http://img1.cookinglight.timeinc.net/sites/default/files/styles/400xvariable/public/image/Oxmoor/oh3476p211-macadamia-nuts-m.jpg?itok=fyTIjDJ0)
Macadamia Nuts
They are one of the few plant sources of palmitoleic acid, which helps lower cholesterol and reduce risk of heart disease.
![Peanuts](http://img1.cookinglight.timeinc.net/sites/default/files/styles/400xvariable/public/image/Oxmoor/oh3476p211-peanuts-m.jpg?itok=b5_nnGp4)
Peanuts
Studies show that eating peanuts and peanut butter can lower cholesterol levels and triglycerides, decreasing your risk of heart disease.
![Pecans](http://img1.cookinglight.timeinc.net/sites/default/files/styles/400xvariable/public/image/Oxmoor/oh3476p211-pecans-m.jpg?itok=gqImhV1l)
Pecans
They’re rich in vitamin E, flavonoids, and plant sterols, natural compounds that help lower cholesterol.
![Pine Nuts](http://img1.cookinglight.timeinc.net/sites/default/files/styles/400xvariable/public/image/Oxmoor/oh3476p211-pine-nuts-m.jpg?itok=f56NU4Nk)
Pine Nuts
Each tiny kernel packs a surprising amount of vitamin E, manganese, copper, and magnesium.
![Pistachios](http://img1.cookinglight.timeinc.net/sites/default/files/styles/400xvariable/public/image/Oxmoor/oh3476p211-pistachios-m.jpg?itok=yrKLfeQP)
Pistachios
They’re rich in carotenoids, including beta-carotene and lutein.
![Walnuts](http://img1.cookinglight.timeinc.net/sites/default/files/styles/400xvariable/public/image/Oxmoor/oh3476p211-walnuts-m.jpg?itok=YSrpY_Vi)
Walnuts
Studies show that walnuts can increase good cholesterol and decrease the bad kind.