Different Types of Nuts and Their Benefits
October 17, 2023
4 mins
Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This makes them beneficial to your health and an excellent addition to nearly any diet.
Types of Nuts
Nuts can be broken into two main groups: tree nuts and groundnuts.
Tree nuts
As the name implies, tree nuts are nuts that grow on trees.
Tree nuts include almonds, hazelnuts, cashews, brazil nuts, macadamia nuts, pine nuts, pili nuts, walnuts, and pecans.
Groundnuts
The most commonly known groundnuts are peanuts.
Peanuts (unlike tree nuts) come from under the ground, where they grow within pod-like structures.
Nuts, Legumes, Drupes, and Seeds: What’s the Difference?
It may come as a surprise that almonds, pistachios, and peanuts are not considered genuine nuts. Still, they are considered nuts from an unofficial, culinary standpoint. Most nuts fall into three categories.
Genuine nuts
Genuine nuts are dry fruit with hard shells and single seeds. The only true nuts include acorns, chestnuts, and hazelnuts. Still, this doesn't take away the benefits of the other “culinary nuts” you may be familiar with.
Legumes
Peanuts belong to the legume family of plants. Other legumes include peas, beans, and lentils.
Drupes and seeds
Drupes and edible seeds encompass most other common nuts.. Pistachios, almonds, walnuts, and cashews all fall into this category. Unlike true nuts, these nuts grow within a fruit.
Nuts Worth Keeping on Your Radar
Almonds
Almonds are the world's second most popular nut and the most consumed tree nut.
While originally from the Middle East, you can find almonds in nearly every grocery store. They are now produced mainly in North America, Europe, and Australia.
Here are several ways almonds can benefit one’s health.
Heart health
Nuts are full of crucial minerals like magnesium, potassium, and manganese, all of which support cardiovascular health. They also contain good, monounsaturated fats, which are helpful for lowering bad cholesterol. This makes almonds particularly beneficial for men who wish to achieve stronger erections – which are reliant on ample blood flow.
Antioxidants
Almonds are a great source of antioxidants. Antioxidants are molecules that help fight a form of cellular stress known as oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is linked with numerous ailments, including erectile dysfunction and cancer.
A study found that participants who consumed almonds saw positive changes in oxidative biomarkers.
Vitamin E
Almonds are an excellent and natural source of vitamin E, which plays a vital role in oxidative balance within the body. A single serving of almonds, equivalent to about 22 almonds, contains nearly half of an average individual’s daily requirements.
Peanuts
There is no denying the popularity of peanuts. Native to South America, these groundnuts are now enjoyed globally in a variety of culinary cuisines.
Below is a closer look at the health benefits of eating peanuts.
High in protein
Peanuts are naturally high in protein. Peanut products can be an excellent source of protein for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone who needs more protein in their diet.
Promote satiety
Peanut butter is great for promoting fullness while providing your body with protein, healthy fats, and other vitamins and minerals. This makes peanuts a better choice than other high-calorie foods that don’t fill you up.
Hormone production
The healthy fats found in peanuts — particularly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats — play a crucial role in hormone production, including testosterone, which is essential for sexual health. These fats also support the development of healthy sperm and improve sperm quality by enhancing membrane fluidity and protecting sperm cells from oxidative stress.
Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts originated in eastern and southern Europe. Researchers believe that these nuts have been utilized for thousands of years. Today, hazelnuts are known for their unique flavor that pairs nicely with desserts. Hazelnuts are also found in pesto, hazelnut butter, and coffee creamer.
While hazelnuts aren’t as common as almonds and peanuts, they have excellent wellness-boosting properties.
Increasing sperm count
Having a low sperm count can affect male fertility and overall health. Among other positive lifestyle changes, adding hazelnuts and other nuts to your diet can help.
A 2018 study found that eating nuts helped support sperm quality. This makes them a superfood for those concerned about male infertility.
Other studies show nuts can help support sexual arousal.
Gastrointestinal health
Hazelnuts are an excellent source of dietary fiber, an indigestible organic molecule that facilitates regular bowel movements.
Eating hazelnuts and other nuts can help adults prevent constipation.
Selenium
Hazelnuts are an excellent source of selenium – which contains enzymes that help create DNA and protect against cell damage.
How Rex MD Can Help
There are tons of types of nuts, and virtually all of them can offer health benefits when eaten in moderation. If you’re looking for a medication-free route to improve your sexual health, incorporating nuts into your diet is a great start. You may also be interested in trying ED meds in conjunction with dietary changes. If that’s the case, Rex MD is here to help.
Offering generic and brand name erectile dysfunction medications like Viagra® and Cialis®, Rex MD helps men have a better time in the bedroom. Get started with a free online consultation today. If prescribed, we’ll mail your meds straight to your door quickly and discreetly. No more awkward doctor’s appointments or inconvenient visits to the pharmacy – Rex MD has got you covered.