‘Consumption of walnuts aids cardiovascular health’

A Nutritionist with Garki Hospital, Abuja, Miss Yemisi Olowookere, has advised Nigerians to consume walnuts as they contain omega-3 fatty acids beneficial to the cardiovascular system.
Olowookere disclosed in Abuja that omega 3 fatty acids help reduce high blood pressure as well as relieve stress.
According to her, consumption of few walnuts per day could help to reduce blood pressure.
“ Walnuts have the highest amount of polyunsaturated “good” fat; they are the only nut with extremely high levels of omega-3 fatty acids.
“Walnuts contain relatively high levels of `l-arginine’, an essential amino acid that can help fight hypertension.
“Omega 3 Fatty acids present in the walnuts are also good for the brain. Having food rich in Omega 3 fatty acids keep the nervous system working smoothly and improves your memory.
Oloowokere said a clinical Nutrition journal recently published results showing that eating walnuts can lower cholesterol by nine to 10 per cent.
She said walnuts contain melatonin and this compound was associated with better sleep patterns.
“Walnuts are really beneficial for immunity. Walnuts have high amounts of anti-oxidants in them that help in keeping your immune system healthy and prevent the onset of diseases.
“Add some walnuts to your diet every day to keep yourself fit as a fiddle,’’ she said.
She said walnuts contain high quality protein more than peanuts about the same as almond, adding that walnuts contain healthy Vitamin B Complex groups like folates, riboflavin, thiamin and more.
The nutritionist said thiamin which the walnuts contain, was necessary for the function of the heart as well as the stability of the nervous system.
“Walnuts are one of the richest sources of vitamin B6 also known as pyridoxine.
Vitamin B6 is involved in proper brain function as well as red blood cell production. Those who are expecting (pregnant women) can gain a lot from having walnuts daily,’’ she said.
Oloowokere said walnuts were among the most concentrated food sources of nutrients provided by nature.
She said that the nut was a very common ingredient of our daily life as we consume walnuts in chocolates, in cakes, in cookies and more.