Doctor says having snack daily 'slashes heart disease risk'

A doctor is recommending a particular type of nut (Image: Pexels)

A daily dose of hazelnuts could be a game-changer for heart health, boasting an ability to slash disease risk significantly. Dr Emma Patel highlighted the common nut's surprising health benefits, often overlooked due to its association with sweet treats.

Packed with monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and magnesium, hazelnuts are powerful in supporting cardiovascular functions, improving blood lipid profiles, quelling inflammation, and boosting arterial health.

Dr Patel has been investigating the potential of home-grown produce in partnership with Ashridge Trees and champions the inclusion of hazelnuts in diets for their ease of cultivation at home. She extolled the virtues of the humble nut, saying: "Hazelnuts are not only delicious, but also incredibly versatile. What sets them apart is their accessibility - they're easy to grow at home, making them a sustainable and practical addition to any heart-healthy diet."

The health claims are backed by research published in The European Journal of Nutrition, where participants ingesting 25g of hazelnuts each day noted a remarkable 12% decrease in LDL cholesterol within a mere four weeks—translating to a staggering 30% diminished risk of heart disease over a year when consumed regularly.

Hazelnuts are being hailed as a heart-health marvel due to their rich content of monounsaturated fats and antioxidants such as phenolic compounds, which are known to fight oxidative stress and prevent damage to arteries. The presence of magnesium in these nuts is also crucial for regulating blood pressure and ensuring the heart functions properly, making them an even more valuable addition to a health-conscious diet.