It is no news that nuts have turned out to be healthy and some of the most nutrient-rich snacks in the recent past. In a world filled with harmful fatty and processed foods, these tiny delights have many health benefits to offer. Out of the nuts like pecans, walnuts, peanuts, cashew nuts and almonds, hazelnuts are the most underrated nuts. Also known as Filberts, these sweet-flavoured nuts are mostly found in shakes, chocolates and most desserts that are hard to resist; however, they are hardly eaten in their actual form. Hazelnuts are believed to contain vitamins, minerals, proteins, fiber and healthy fats. According to the book Healing Foods by DK Publishing, hazelnuts have abundant amounts of antioxidants which can improve the overall health to a great extent.Here are some health benefits that will convince you to eat hazelnuts daily.

1. Promotes Heart Health

Hazelnuts are known to fight against heart diseases; thanks to the presence of various vitamins and minerals in them. They contain a large amount of fiber and monounsaturated fatty acids that help reduce LDL cholesterol (unhealthy) and increase the HDL cholesterol (healthy). The presence of magnesium may promote healthy rests between the contractions, further preventing overexertion of the heart.

2. Rich In Antioxidants

According to the book Healing Foods, eaten with their skin on, hazelnuts contain three times as much antioxidant proanthocyanidin, which helps prevent free radicals from damaging organs and cells.

3. May Help Fight Obesity

Hazelnuts are known to be great stimulants for healthy metabolism in the body. Consuming these nuts may induce weight loss due to a boost in metabolic activity. Thiamine, a vitamin present in hazelnuts help convert carbohydrates into glucose, which is the source of energy that the body uses to operate. The presence of fiber, high fat and protein helps you stay full for longer and curbs any cravings or hunger pangs.

4. Increases Muscle Strength

Hazelnuts are an excellent sources of magnesium, which plays an important role in regulating the amount of calcium that goes in and out of the body. The presence of sufficient amount of calcium in the body promotes muscle contraction and further allows the muscles to relax when not in need. This further prevents muscle tension, cramps, soreness, spasms and fatigue. Magnesium also helps in building muscle strength.

5. Takes Care Of Skin and Hair Health

The robust amount of vitamin E present in hazelnuts help maintain the skin and hair health. Vitamin E protects the skin and hair from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays, reducing the risk of skin cancer and dark spots.

6. Improves Cognitive Function

Hazelnuts are a powerhouse of vitamin E, folate, thiamine and fatty acids that help in keeping the brain sharp and improves cognitive function as well. Higher levels of vitamin E coincide with less cognitive decline as individuals age.

Hazelnuts are high in calories and so are other nuts; however, they can be consumed in a limited quantity along with other nuts like almonds and walnuts in order to extract all the goodness from them. Now, you have more reasons to add hazelnuts to your daily diet.