The season for fresh hazelnuts does not last long, so it is worth knowing when to reach for them and how to use them in your daily diet. We check what properties they have, how they differ between fresh and dried ones, and how much of them you can eat a day to be good for your health.
Hazelnuts ripen in late summer – usually from late August to September. This is when you can find them in stores and markets in fresh form, still in green shells. In this form, they have a more delicate taste and are juicier, although it must be remembered that they spoil quickly and are best eaten within a few days. The time for natural, fresh hazelnuts is therefore quite short. Fortunately, dried fruits are available all year round – they have a more intense flavor, are longer lasting and still retain most of the valuable nutrients.
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Hazelnuts have been appreciated in cooking and natural medicine for centuries. This small, crunchy fruit is rich in nutrients – from vitamin E, called the vitamin of youth, through B vitamins, to magnesium, phosphorus, calcium and iron. The unsaturated fatty acids they contain support the heart, lower bad cholesterol levels and may reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. Many people wonder what properties hazelnuts have and whether it is really worth including them in the diet.
It turns out that regular consumption not only supports the functioning of the circulatory system, but also improves memory, concentration and mood. Nuts also support digestion thanks to the presence of fiber, and thanks to antioxidants, they delay the aging process and take care of the condition of the skin, hair and nails. It is a real treasure trove of health closed in a small, brown shell.
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Although hazelnuts are healthy, it is worth remembering that they contain a lot of fat and calories. Therefore, the key is moderation. Dietitians emphasize that a handful a day – about 25-30 grams – is the optimal amount that will provide valuable nutrients and at the same time will not excessively burden the calorie balance. In practice, it is approximately 15-20 pieces. Many people wonder how many hazelnuts you can eat a day to fully benefit from their properties and not overdo it.
Regularly drinking this portion supports the heart, concentration and digestion, and at the same time fills you up for a long time and can replace less valuable snacks. However, excess – especially in the case of people who care about their figure – can lead to a calorie surplus, so it is best to treat them as a healthy addition to a varied diet.
Hazelnuts are an ingredient that will work not only as a quick snack. They can be added to oatmeal, yogurt or salads to enrich the taste and nutritional value of the meal. They also go perfectly with desserts – from cakes and creams, through homemade bars, to classic pralines.
Roasted in a dry pan, they gain a more intense aroma and are perfect for sprinkling cream soups or vegetable dishes. In plant cuisine, they are often used to prepare nut milk or spreads.
Source: guster.pl, Terazgotuje.pl
