Walnuts are also a great source of several important minerals. Just a quarter cup of chopped walnuts can provide a significant portion of your daily requirements for manganese, copper, magnesium, and iron.
Walnuts Are Packed With Antioxidants
One of the most impressive features of walnuts is their extremely high antioxidant content.
Most
nuts contain beneficial polyphenols, but walnuts stand out among them. Scientific research has found that walnuts are one of the richest dietary sources of these powerful compounds.
Polyphenols help protect the body from oxidative stress, which occurs when unstable molecules called free radicals damage cells. Over time, oxidative stress can contribute to chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Because of their high antioxidant levels, even consuming two or three walnuts per day may help protect the body against cellular damage and inflammation.
A Rich Source of
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Walnuts are one of the best plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids. In fact, a one-ounce serving provides about 2.5 grams of omega-3s.