The popularity of Hazelnuts has grown to the immense love the world has for them today. There exists well-developed folklore concerning the hazelnut, rich with stories about its resourcefulness. [1] It was the Europeans to brought hazelnut to the United States when they immigrated to America. The first commercial nursery was established in Flushing, New York under the watchful eye of Robert Prince in 1737.
The hazel plant is native to the north-temperate hemisphere and belongs to the birch family (Betulaceae). It is deciduous and its heights range from 3 to 36 metres. Hazelnuts are nuts derived from the hazel plant. Hazelnuts are known to grow all across the world. Their growth is suitable for moist and cold environments. They are observed to grow well in Europe, Asia and Mediterranean regions. Turkey is the largest producer of hazelnuts trailed by Italy, Azerbaijan and the United States. [1] It is commercially viable, widely used in perfumes, soaps and food products. [4]
Hazelnuts are known as an excellent source of fats, protein and carbohydrates and their ability to provide energy. [3] Though, lacking fibres, it may disturb digestion when consumed in excess. [3]
Health Benefits:
Hazelnuts provide a myriad of health benefits illustrated in the following section:
- Supplies an abundance of essential minerals and vitamins: The Hazelnut possesses a chemical profile demonstrated as follows – One ounce (28 grams, or about 20 whole kernels) of hazelnuts contains:
[2]Calories 176 Total fat 17 grams Protein 4.2 grams Carbs 4.7 grams Fiber 2.7 grams Vitamin E 21% of the RDI Thiamin 12% of the RDI Magnesium 12% of the RDI Copper 24% of the RDI Manganese 87% of the RDI Hazelnuts provide an abundance of essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, manganese, magnesium and copper. They also possess a high content of omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids. [2]
- Reduce inflammation: Hazelnuts possess phenolic compounds which aid in reducing inflammation and cholesterol. Studies reveal that eating 60 grams of it every day for 12 weeks reduced inflammatory markers in obese people. [2]
- Beneficial to the heart: Hazelnuts are beneficial in increasing the oxidative capacity of the body resulting in the reduction of blood lipids levels. This, in turn, reduces the risks to the heart. [2] Phenolic compounds present in Hazelnuts also help maintain optimal blood sugar levels. However, its extended effects need to be researched further. [2]
- Helps fight against Cancer: Hazelnuts may help in the reduction of cancer-related risks due to their high concentration of vitamin E, phenolic compounds, and manganese. However, the research is not conclusive. [2]
- Easily added to the majority of diets: They can be easily added to the diet for most people. They can be added to other dishes and consumed individually in a variety of ways [2]
Side Effects:
Though deemed safe for most people, some people may be allergic to hazelnuts and may suffer severe reactions. Those allergic to peanuts, Brazil nuts and birch pollen may be allergic to hazelnuts as well. Avoid the consumption of contaminated products. In the case of pregnancy and breastfeeding, discretion is advised since it is not enough information regarding its side effects. [5]
Promising a healthier future
For over three decades now, Anzen Exports has been a trusted exporter and distributor in the pharmachem industry. The organization’s wide array of top-of-the-line products includes Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API), herbal extracts, nutraceutical ingredients, and cosmetic ingredients. It is our constant endeavour to inform our customers about various medical and health conditions, their causes and the treatments available for them.
Disclaimer:
Anzen Export’s blog posts have been written with the information gathered from approved medical journals and websites online. Our research and technical team strive to provide relevant information through such articles. To be best informed, we advise consulting a doctor about an ingredient or medicine before taking it.
References