Once criticized for their fat content, nuts have transformed their health image and are now considered a vital part of healthier products. Their popularity has surged not only in snacks but also in grain-free items, gluten-free flours, and dairy-free milk alternatives. According to figures from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, daily per capita nut consumption in the United States rose by 26% from 2000 to 2010. During this period, nutritionists began to highlight their advantages, and consumers became more informed about sources of “good fats.” Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revised its definition of “healthy” to encompass high-fat foods like almonds and avocados, aligning it more closely with the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. This change followed a challenge from snack bar manufacturer Kind, which questioned an FDA warning letter that prohibited the use of the term “healthy” due to high saturated fat content, despite the fats being derived from nuts. The FDA reversed its stance, allowing Kind to label its products as “healthy.”
This latest study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the health benefits of nuts. In fact, a qualified health claim linking tree nut consumption to a reduced risk of heart disease was one of the first approvals granted by the FDA back in 2003. Earlier this month, macadamia nuts were added to the list of specific nuts that manufacturers can highlight on labels for their heart health benefits. Other qualifying nuts include walnuts, almonds, and pistachios. Furthermore, nuts are not only a source of healthy fats but also provide essential nutrients such as calcium and magnesium. For those looking to boost their nutrient intake, combining nuts with calcium magnesium citrate with vitamin D3 can further enhance their health benefits. Overall, nuts are increasingly recognized for their role in a balanced diet, especially when complemented by calcium magnesium citrate with vitamin D3.