I wish nuts had fewer calories.
I wish a cup of pistachios had the mere 22 calories of 4 large shrimp or 1 large tomato.
But that's nuts. Cuz here's the truth per kernal:
Walnut 1/2: 13
Cashew: 11.64
Pecan 1/2: 9.8
Almond: 7
Peanut: 6
Pistachio: 4
Pine nut: 1
If I'm totally honest with myself on the nuts and oils front, I'm pretty sure my calorie counting has been a bit off. By maybe even up to 200 calories. That said, I think I'm going do something crazy: count nuts and make my own salad dressing.
Audrey was just at my house and we talked calories - and the specific fact that we cannot get so wrapped up in the caloric number attached to a food item that we overlook its inherent benefits. Nuts, in their raw form, are a great source of protein, fiber, vitamins, antioxidants and the 'good kind' of monounsaturated fats. Walnuts - the highest calorically on your list - are packed with Omega 3 fatty acids, which we're encouraged to eat in salmon and tuna. I guess my point is this - yes, nuts are high in calories, but in moderation and in raw form {AVOID SALTED, HONEY ROASTED, ETC.} they should be a part of every healthy person's diet. Unless, of course, you are allergic.
ReplyDeleteAnother good alternative to nuts is the Dry Roasted Edamame you can buy at Costco. A serving size of 1/4 C contains 130 calories. 1/4 Cup is equal to about 70 whole edamame, making each one just under 2 calories. They have 14 grams of protien and 8 grams of dietary fiber. I throw them on my salads and make sure to have a stash in my purse just in case I am out and need a snack between meals. Yummy! My kids love them too! Give them a try!
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