Nuts are a fantastic source of nutrients, including healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. Antioxidants are compounds that help protect the body from oxidative stress, which can lead to chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. But which nuts have the most antioxidants?
The answer is walnuts. Walnuts have been found to have the highest levels of antioxidants among all nuts. They contain over 20 mmol antioxidants per 100 g, mostly in their pellicles.
Pellicles are the thin, papery skins on the surface of the walnut kernel. This is where most of the antioxidants are located, so it’s best to leave the skin on when eating walnuts.
What makes walnuts stand out, even more, is that they have a combination of more healthful antioxidants and higher quality antioxidants than any other nut.
They are particularly high in a type of antioxidant called polyphenols, which have been shown to have a range of health benefits. Polyphenols are thought to help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and protect against oxidative stress.
In the past, pecans were thought to be the highest in antioxidants. However, recent studies have found that walnuts have both higher levels and higher quality of antioxidants than pecans. This means that walnuts are not only a tasty snack but also an excellent choice for promoting overall health.
While walnuts are the highest in antioxidants, other nuts are still a good source of these compounds. Almonds, hazelnuts, and pistachios, for example, also contain polyphenols and other antioxidants. So, if you’re looking to boost your antioxidant intake, consider adding a variety of nuts to your diet.
If you’re looking for the nut with the highest levels of antioxidants, walnuts are the way to go. They contain over 20 mmol antioxidants per 100 g, mostly in the pellicles, and have a combination of more healthful and higher quality antioxidants than any other nut.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for a snack, reach for a handful of walnuts for a nutritious and delicious treat.