Go Nuts (Literally!) with ATL Fitness Club

So if you're into healthful snacks in between meals, you probably know that one of the best foods you can nosh on is a handful of nuts.

That's because they're jam-packed with protein, vitamins, minerals, and even heart-healthy fats.

But which nuts are best (and worst) for you? Here's some helpful info to ensure you make the right choices...

Why eat nuts as a snack in between meals?
A spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics says, "Their mix of omega-3 fatty acids, protein and fiber will help you feel full and suppress your appetite."

Which nuts have the fewest calories?
All nuts are nearly equal in terms of calories per ounce (in moderation, of course!).
The top 3 lowest-calorie nuts at 160 per ounce are:

-almonds (23 nuts; 6 grams protein, 14 grams fat)

-cashews (16 to 18 nuts; 5 grams protein, 13 grams fat);

-pistachios (49 nuts; 6 grams protein, 13 grams fat).

Which nuts should I avoid?
Avoid nuts which are packaged, roasted in oil, are high in sodium, or contain corn syrup. Try eating them raw or dry roasted instead...Or make your own homemade mix (Here's an ATL Fitness Club favorite: raw almonds sprinkled with cinnamon & stevia and roasted in the oven at 250 degrees for about 25 min.).

Other "nutty" info:
Ounce for ounce, macadamia nuts (10 to 12 nuts; 2 grams protein, 21 grams fat) and pecans (18 to 20 halves; 3 grams protein, 20 grams fat) have the most calories -- 200 each -- along with the lowest amounts of protein and the highest amounts of fats.
Macadamias and pecans, however, are still good nuts (since the difference between these and the lowest calorie nuts is only 40 calories an ounce).

Moral of the story:
As long as you're practicing good portion control and not eating nuts by handfuls at a time, any kind of raw, plain nut will give you a good dose of healthy fats and nutrients.

So what are you waiting for? If you're in need of a healthful snack, get crackin' on some nuts!
-- ATL Fitness


For more information on fitness , strength , cardio , or nutrition visit our web site:
ATLfitnessclub.com .