Myth: Consuming walnuts will not improve diet quality on a daily basis.
Truth: This is false.
Studies have shown that tree nuts, like walnuts, can improve diet quality. In a study published in the British Journal of Nutrition, researchers examined whether an older adult’s nutrient profile could be improved just by adding walnuts to their diet.
Research has shown that daily walnut consumption improves an individual’s mean daily energy intake. Specifically, polyunsaturated fatty acids, magnesium, copper, and manganese were significantly higher in the experimental group. Saturated fatty acids, including animal proteins, total carbohydrates, and sodium were also significantly lower in the experimental group. These changes are attributed to the walnut’s ability to reduce cholesterol intake, reduce saturated fatty acids, and increase consumption of polyunsaturated fatty acids.
This study shows promise in encouraging individuals to incorporate walnuts into their diet to improve their quality. For full access to this article, please click here.
Reference
- Bitok E, Jaceldo-Siegl K, Rajaram S, et al. Favourable nutrient intake and displacement with long-term walnut supplementation among elderly: Results of a randomised trial. Br J Nutr. 2017;118(3):201-209. doi:10.1017/S0007114517001957
