For most of us, what comes to mind when we think of hazelnuts are delicious chocolate spreads and rich crunchy chocolates. And more recently, hazelnut is also becoming a favourite flavor to be added to your coffee.  But take a moment and think about the source of all that taste and flavor – the nut itself. Did you know that hazelnuts are a source of excellent food value and come with a variety of positive benefits for your health and wellness?

Yes, it’s true! To uncover the wonders of hazelnuts, click here.

Hazelnuts are tree nuts that were first cultivated in Turkey and the southern parts of Europe, but are now produced and consumed in various parts of the world. Also known as cobnuts, they are found in the insides of kernels that grow on these trees.

Hazelnuts are a treasure trove of nutrition and contain elements like Vitamin E, monounsaturated fat, copper and magnesium among other things. They are also high in fiber and protein, both of which are essential for the smooth functioning of various processes in your body.

Consuming hazelnuts regularly can have significant advantages, some of which are:

1. Hazelnuts Prevent Cancer

Studies show that these nuts contain the best kind of antioxidants known as phytosterols, which work on neutralizing radicals and preventing cell mutation, thus reducing the risk of cancer.

2. Good For Your Heart And Mind

While hazelnuts do contain a high level of fats, these are mostly of the kinds that are good for your body, such as monounsaturated fats and fatty acids, lowering bad cholesterol levels and improving good cholesterol levels, thereby keeping your heart healthy and preventing the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases. Eating hazelnuts regularly reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes, and helps maintain a healthy lipid profile.

The oleic acid in hazelnuts not only maintains heart health, but also keeps your brain functioning. It works on various brain-related functions and protects you from mental illnesses like depression and schizophrenia. Hazelnuts also contain Vitamin E, an essential element in maintaining the alertness and sharpness levels of your brain.

3. Protects Fetus

These nuts are highly recommended for pregnant women since they have a significantly positive impact on the fetus’s health - hazelnuts contain a B-complex vitamin called folate that prevents neural tube defects in newborn children.

4. Gives You Glowing Skin

These nuts are a fantastic source of Vitamin E and consuming just 100 gms of these nuts a day can give you your required daily amount of this vitamin. Vitamin E is responsible for keeping your skin healthy, and helps fight against signs of aging like wrinkles, crow’s feet and pigmentation.

The benefits of hazelnuts are not limited to these – These nuts are also gluten-free, making them a safe ingredient for those allergic to this substance, and contain groups of B-complex vitamins, thus promoting the optimal functioning of various bodily functions. They also have iron among their list of nutrients, thereby making them a must-have for those afflicted with anemia. Their Vitamin E content not just gives you soft supple skin but also boosts your immunity, protecting you from allergies and common colds. And the best part of it all – Hazelnuts can help you shed those excess kilos since they keep you satiated for longer due to their high fiber content, keeping you away from unhealthy snacks between meals.

While hazelnuts are primarily products of the colourful autumn season, they are available round the year. Always opt for the natural versions over their processed counterparts since the former have more nutritional value, and less harmful substances like additives, colour and chemicals. Hazelnuts can be stored for years if kept carefully in airtight containers.

Confused about how to add hazelnuts to your daily diet? Fret not! You could eat them whole, and even roast them, or grind them to make dips and desserts. They are also great additions to salads.

Explore the goodness of these kernels here.