Walnuts have been known for their nutritious properties , biological properties ad health promoting effects. Walnut oil has a nutty, delicate flavour and contains beneficial nutrients and polyphenol compounds. Consumption of walnut oil as per studies may help improve the heart and have other potential benefits as well.
Nutrition Profile
Fats
Contain about 65% fat by weight, even though it is rich in fat and calories, but they do not increase the risk of obesity. The major constituent of the oil are oleic acid , linoleic acid and (most abundant), linolenic acid. ALA makes up for about 8-14% of the total fat content.
Protein
It contains protein, particularly high in arginine, which is a potent vasodilator and is considered good for heart patients and athletes.
Vitamins and minerals
They are good source of vitamins and minerals.
Compared to other nuts, walnuts have high amount of vitamin E , which is a potent antioxidant and plays an important role against oxidation of fats. It also contains folic acid which has important biological functions. 1. Good for skin health
They are high in unsaturated fatty acids , including omega 3 ALA (Alpha linolenic acid) and omega 6 LA (Linoleic Acid), both which are essential for healthy skin.
2. May help decrease inflammation
Adding walnut oil may help fight chronic inflammation, which is linked to heart diseases, arthritis, cancers and health issues.
3. Helps lower blood pressure
Diets high in walnuts or walnut oil may help lower blood pressure due to the presence of ALA and polyphenols. Studies suggest that consuming walnuts and walnut oil help improve the functioning of the blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
4. May help control blood sugar
Research studies show that consuming walnut oil in one’s diet may help with type 2 diabetes low their blood sugar levels.
5. Improves cholesterol levels
Consuming walnut oil can help lower triglycerides and LDL (Bad) cholesterol, which otherwise can lead to the development of cholesterol in the arteries and increase the risk of heart diseases.
6. May have anti-cancer effects
Walnut intake maybe linked to a decreased risk of cancer due to presence of ellagic acid which gets covered into urolithins, responsible for showing the anti cancerous effects.
Walnut oil can be easily incorporated in a diet by including them in salads as a dressing. It has many beneficial effects and should be consumed in a diet to gain the above discussed health benefits.