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Nuts: source of energy and macronutrients

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  19 April 2007

Gemma Brufau ,
Josep Boatella  and
Magda Rafecas
Gemma Brufau
Affiliation:
Nutrition and Food Science Department – CeRTA, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
Josep Boatella
Affiliation:
Nutrition and Food Science Department – CeRTA, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
Magda Rafecas*
Affiliation:
Nutrition and Food Science Department – CeRTA, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
*
*Corresponding author: Magda Rafecas, fax number +34-934035931, email: [email protected]
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Abstract

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On the basis of the high fat content of nuts, they are traditionally considered as foods that provide a high amount of energy. However, epidemiologic and clinical observations do not indicate an association between nut intake and increased BMI. There is a notorious variability in macronutrient composition among nuts, although they have some consistent patterns. Nuts contain all major macronutrients: protein, carbohydrate, and fat. The total protein content is relatively high, which makes them a good source of plant protein (especially for vegetarians). Although nuts contain low amounts of some essential amino acids, this is not a nutritional concern due to the complement of protein. In addition, nuts have a low lysine:arginine ratio, which is inversely associated with the risk of developing hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis. Carbohydrates are the second highest macronutrient in nuts in terms of total calories provided. The fat fraction is characterized by a high amount of unsaturated fatty acids and a low content of saturated fatty acids. In conclusion, the high content in unsaturated fatty acids, the low lysine:arginine ratio, and the presence of other bioactive molecules (such as fibre, phytosterols, vitamin and other antioxidants, and minerals) make the addition of nuts to healthy diets a useful tool for the prevention of cardiovascular heart diseases.

Type
Review Article
Information
British Journal of Nutrition , Volume 96 , Supplement S2 , November 2006 , pp. S24 - S28
Copyright
Copyright © The Nutrition Society 2006

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