Regular consumption of nuts may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases up to 30%, according to the INC (International Nut and Dried Fruit Council).
These data, taken from the research PREDIMED (“Primary prevention of cardiovascular disease with Mediterranean diet”), also indicate the reduction in the incidence of diabetes by means of a daily portion of nuts, which is equal to about 30 grams of product.
The INC shows these data coinciding with World Heart Day, since cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death worldwide. In particular, according to the World Health Organization, in 2008 over 17.3 million deaths were caused worldwide for this reason that, according to this source, will cause about 23.3 million deaths worldwide in 2030.
“Due to its many beneficial properties, nuts are food that not only provide nutrients, but also improve health significantly and reduce the risk of chronic diseases,” claims Jordi Salas-Salvadó, chairman of the INC World Forum for Nutrition Research and Dissemination. Also, the INC recommends regular consumption of nuts in order to reduce “bad cholesterol” (LDL) between 7 and 10%. Properties and benefits Among its many beneficial properties, several scientific studies show that nuts also reduce the glycemic index (GI), prevent blood clots and provide more fluid blood, improve endothelial function of blood vessels and have an anti-inflammatory effect.
These benefits are given to multiple components of these products, such as Vitamin E, folic acid, magnesium, arginine, plant sterols, phytochemical compounds and low levels of saturated fatty acid substances, among others.
