Are nuts bad for you?

http://women.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/women/diet_and_fitness/article6114556.ece

"...Brazil nuts are particularly high in the mineral selenium, which acts as an antioxidant and is vital for making a potent antioxidant enzyme that helps to protect our cells against pollutants. Although no firm links have been established, even mild selenium deficiency has been linked to infertility and increased risk of eye problems in later life, such as cataracts and age-related blindness...

...A daily handful of almonds is recommended in the portfolio diet, which scientists in Canada have proven can be as effective as statin drugs at reducing raised cholesterol. This “portfolio” of heart-healthy foods also includes oats, soya, pulses and plant stanols and sterols (found in cholesterol-lowering yoghurts).

Almonds also seem to have a satisfying effect on hunger; probably because of a combination of the fibre, protein (each handful contains 6g of protein, about the same as a small egg) and oils they contain. This makes them a good substitute for more calorific snacks such as cakes and biscuits.

There also appears to be a relationship between regular consumption of walnuts and a reduced risk of heart disease. This may be down to the plant version of omega-3 oils, their super nutrients (which seem to help to stop bad cholesterol from oxidising - the process that makes it dangerous to our arteries), the high monounsaturated fat content of walnuts or a combination of all three.

Health nuts

Almonds also give us bone-building calcium. A 50g serving contains 170mg; almost the same as a 150ml glass of milk.

Peanuts give us folate, the B vitamin that is crucial for helping to prevent spina bifida in a newly conceived foetus and for helping to lower the amino acid homocysteine, which when raised can clog arteries.

Chestnuts have just 170 calories per 100g and only 3g of fat, while coconuts give 351 calories and 36g of fat per 100g.

Cashews are the best for the energy-boosting mineral iron. A 50g portion provides 3mg. You would need to eat a hefty 200g serving of spinach to get the same amount."