Summer comes with images of frosty sweets and tropical delights. But, beneath the surface, our bodies still require essential nutrients to stay energized and healthy.
Nuts are a small powerhouse of nature, packed with many health benefits. They provide plenty of good fats that satisfy your hunger and boost energy. Nuts, rich in fibre, protein, and essential minerals and vitamins can improve digestion, increase energy levels, and even support good skin and hair. While some may believe nuts are a heavy winter snack, a handful of these powerhouses are the ideal pick-me-up for the hot season.
So, let’s ditch the mindset that healthy summer snacks must be bland and boring. Here’s a mix of refreshing and nourishing nut options that will keep you energized, healthy, and ready to conquer the summer season, the healthy way.
Here are 6 power packed nuts to help you beat this summer in a healthy way:
- Almonds: These vitamin E powerhouses are a great source of monounsaturated fat, which can help you feel full and control your weight. Magnesium, found naturally in almonds, may ease muscle relax and possibly relieve common summer headache symptoms.
- Walnuts: Walnuts are a master source of omega-3 fatty acids, critical for maintaining brain function and reducing inflammation and anxiety during hot weather. Walnuts also have a nice crunch that helps fulfilling cravings for sugary treats.
- Macadamia Nuts: Don’t underestimate the power of these buttery snacks! Macadamia nuts are rich in monounsaturated fats and provide a good dose of fibre, keeping you full and energized throughout the day. In addition, they are a delicious source of manganese, a mineral that boosts metabolism and helps regulate blood sugar.
- PistachiosThese bright green gems are a good source of antioxidants that help fight free radicals and protect skin from sun damage – essential for those long summer days outside. Pistachios are also a surprisingly good source of fibre, which aids digestion and keeps you fuller for longer.
- Cashews: These creamy sweets are a good source of copper, which plays a role in energy production – perfect for beating summer lethargy. Cashews are also a natural source of zinc, which can help support a healthy immune system – perfect for warding off summer colds.
- Raisins: Rich in natural sugars and surprisingly high in water content, raisins help hydrate and provide a quick energy boost, making them ideal for hot summer days. They also provide an excellent supply of potassium, an electrolyte that is lost through sweat.
So put away the sugar-filled goodies and grab these summer friendly nuts. Their unique nutritional profile and delightful crunch will keep you refreshed, energized, and prepared to beat the summer heat.
