Raw Organic Hazelnuts
The hazelnut, also known as the filbert, is cultivated in many parts of the world including the Mediterranean region, western Asia, New Zealand and the Pacific Northwest region of the United States.
Our raw organic hazelnuts are all grown locally without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, allowing you to enjoy them with the assurance that they are produced in a more environmentally friendly and sustainable manner.
We hand select only the finest whole hazelnuts, shell them and then air-dry them perfectly. Eating our organic hazelnuts raw guarantees you will get the highest nutritional value possible, since many of the beneficial antioxidant nutrients are concentrated in the thin skin of the nut, and there is evidence to show that the number of antioxidants decreases after roasting.
Raw hazelnuts have a deliciously rich, nutty flavor that is both satisfying and comforting. The natural taste of hazelnuts is often described as mildly sweet with earthy undertones. They can be enjoyed in various ways, including as a standalone snack, added to salads, yogurt, or cereal for extra flavor and texture, or they can be incorporated into baked goods such as cookies, cakes, and bread. They are also well known as the base of the popular, sweet spread Nutella.
The upside of eating hazelnuts goes beyond the sensory pleasure they provide; it is also about the many health benefits they deliver, reflecting their rich nutritional profile.
Nutritional Benefits
Hazelnuts provide significant amounts of healthy mono and polyunsaturated fats, plant protein, fiber, numerous vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. As an added bonus, they are gluten and sodium-free.
Healthy Fats: Hazelnuts are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, including omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, such as oleic acid. These fats are beneficial for heart health as they can help reduce levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and lower the risk of heart disease.
Protein: Hazelnuts are a good source of plant-based protein, and an excellent choice for those looking for alternatives to animal-based protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, as well as supporting muscle growth and maintenance.
Fiber: Hazelnuts are high in dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble. Fiber is important for digestive health, prevents constipation, and supports a healthy gut microbiome. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels and may aid in weight management by promoting feelings of fullness.
Vitamins and Minerals: Hazelnuts are rich in several vitamins and minerals, including vitamins B1 (Thiamin), B3 (Niacin), B6, B9 (Folic Acid) and vitamin E. Minerals present include manganese, copper, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, selenium, and zinc.
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative damage, while manganese plays a role in bone formation and wound healing. Copper is important for energy production and iron absorption, while magnesium supports muscle and nerve function.
Antioxidants: Hazelnuts contain various antioxidants, including vitamin E, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
Gluten-Free: Hazelnuts are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe and nutritious option for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
A concrete way to illustrate just how nutritious hazelnuts are is the example below of the nutrients provided by just one ounce, or about 20 hazelnuts:
Calories: 176
Total fat: 17 grams
Protein: 4.2 grams
Carbs: 4.7 grams
Fiber: 2.7 grams (11% of the DV)*
Vitamin E: 21% of the RDI**
Thiamin: 12% of the RDI**
Magnesium: 12% of the RDI**
Copper: 24% of the RDI**
Manganese: 87% of the RDI**
*Daily Value (DV) and Percent Daily Value (%DV) work together. DVs are the recommended amounts of nutrients to consume
**Reference Daily Intake (RDI) is used to indicate optimum daily intake level of a nutrient. .
These nutrients provide a wide range of health benefits. Here are some of these.
Hazelnut Health Benefits
Reduces Inflammation
The antioxidants in hazelnuts including vitamin E, phytochemicals, and flavonoids help to reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Studies show that eating just 2 oz. of hazelnuts every day for 12 weeks helped reduce inflammatory markers.
Heart Health:
According to research, regular consumption of hazelnuts is beneficial in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Research has documented reductions in bad (LDL) cholesterol and total cholesterol levels for those who ate hazelnuts, while good (HDL) cholesterol and triglycerides remained unchanged. Moreover, the high content of fatty acids, dietary fiber, antioxidants, potassium and magnesium in hazelnuts seems to help normalize blood pressure.
In general, eating 1-2.5 oz. of hazelnuts per day has been linked to improvements in heart health parameters.
Brain Health:
Hazelnuts contain antioxidants such as vitamin E and flavonoids, which are beneficial for brain health. These antioxidants help protect brain cells from oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
Hazelnuts also contain tryptophan, an essential amino acid involved in the production of serotonin, which can impact behavior, depression, pain sensitivity, and alertness. Hazelnuts also contain tyrosine that enhances brain functioning.
Reduces the Risk of Cancer
Hazelnuts’ high concentration of antioxidant compounds, vitamins and minerals provides them with some anti-cancer properties. According to the American Institute of Cancer Research, hazelnuts contain alpha-tocopherol (a vitamin E rich in antioxidants). It reduces the risk of cancer by killing free radicals in the body that are responsible for damaging cell DNA.
Similarly, hazelnuts provide a whopping 87% the RDI for manganese in a one-ounce serving. Manganese has shown to help the functions of specific enzymes that could reduce oxidative damage and decrease the risk of cancer
Some in vitro studies showed that hazelnut extract could be beneficial in the treatment of cervical, liver, breast and colon cancer. Research also suggests that regular consumption of hazelnuts effectively reduces the risk of colon cancer in women as the phytochemicals present in hazelnuts improve cell survival.
Bone Health:
Hazelnuts are a good source of essential vitamins like C and E and minerals like magnesium, calcium, iron, manganese, and potassium that improve bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Improved Digestion:
Research indicates that dietary fiber, polyphenol compounds, and the unsaturated fatty acids present in hazelnuts increase the number of microbes in the gut and improve gastrointestinal health. It helps treat irritable bowel syndromes and constipation. The fiber and polyphenols present in hazelnuts also work as probiotics that boost digestion.
The insoluble fiber in hazelnuts also helps the intestines absorb water and increase the bulk of waste products, which speeds their passage and expulsion. This can help reduce the risk of some digestive system cancers.
Weight management: Despite being calorie-dense, hazelnuts can aid in weight management when consumed in moderation. The combination of healthy fats, protein, and fiber helps promote satiety and can prevent overeating.
Hair and Scalp Health
Hazelnuts are a rich source of vitamin E, which according to recent studies, promotes hair growth for those with alopecia. The high amounts of protein, zinc, and selenium present also improve scalp health and prevent hair loss.
Healthier Skin
Phenolic compounds help to slow down skin aging, protect the skin from sun damage, and treat various skin issues like wounds, wrinkles, and acne. Hazelnuts contain high amounts of phenolic compounds like tannins and flavonoids and thus enhance skin health. They also contain antioxidants and vitamin E that reduce signs of skin ageing and keep skin looking youthful.
The Bottom Line
Hazelnuts are packed with nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidant compounds and healthy fats. They provide many health benefits that enable us to live healthier lives, feeling better, looking younger and functioning longer. These nuts can be enjoyed in various ways, including as a standalone snack, or added to salads, yogurt, or cereal. All in all, hazelnuts are an excellent and delicious source of nutrients that can be easily incorporated into your diet.
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Resources Used for NWWF Blog#21 Raw Organic Hazelnuts
https://bebodywise.com/blog/hazelnut-benefits/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323807
https://www.organicfacts.net/hazelnut-benefits.html
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hazelnut-benefits#TOC_TITLE_HDR_5