Why we're nuts about the health benefits of walnuts, anjeers and almonds

Whether you're someone who prefers to grab a fistful of nuts and dried fruit as an energy booster before a workout or the kind that would rather eat them first thing in the morning, don't miss out on consuming these small-but-mighty nutritional powerhouses. To give you the rundown on why almonds, walnuts and anjeers contribute to a healthy diet, we spoke to the Founder of Kaashi Wellness, Neha Ahuja, who advises us to soak all nuts and dried fruit for at least 4 to 6 hours before consuming them because as we age, the body's capacity to produce omega-3 fatty acids and essential minerals reduces and consuming these foods is the most effective and natural way of balancing the loss.

Since almonds, walnuts and anjeers are commonly found in our households, we wanted to dive deeper into their nutritional profiles and understand their benefits.

Almonds

For many of us, almonds still remain part of a distant childhood memory that involved our parents forcing us to eat our badam before school. However, salted or roasted, in the form of milk, butter, oil or flour, almonds are now the most versatile nut occupying space on every pantry and supermarket shelf. Ahuja tells us these nuts are full of health benefits, because they improve bone health, help rebuild the loss of collagen and elastin and improve skin texture, apart from allowing for easy absorption of supplements, like vitamin A, D, and E

To incorporate more almonds into your diet, try out our recipe for this rich, badam kheer.

Walnuts

It's time to stop picking out the walnuts from your brownies. Yes, we think that those small pieces count. On a different note, we have often believed that this brain-shaped nut is mainly good for the brain, but Ahuja clarifies that they're so much more. Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and are good for your joints, skin health, vision, brain and heart health. Additionally, these nutty tidbits also help in lowering cholesterol levels and as we have seen, quite the topping for desserts too!

What's more, consuming just one or two whole walnuts is enough to reap their benefits. Looking for a fun way to enjoy them? Check our recipe for spinach, walnut and cranberry salad.

Anjeer

Coming from the Mulberry family, anjeers taste like decadent desserts all by themselves because of their sweet, chewy and gooey texture. Lucky for us, these dried fruits are also high in fiber, calcium, potassium and other vitamins and minerals that are known to improve your health. Some of their benefits include preventing constipation, strengthening bones and promoting reproductive health.

With the festive season around the corner, give anjeers the spotlight they deserve by recreating this kaju and anjeer ki mithai at home.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and discussions about health, nutrition and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this, or in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.