Longevity, in a Nut Shell

Eating tree nuts or peanuts daily can help you live longer, according to Dutch research published in the Journal of Epidemiology. Results come from a large study of about 120,000 men and women between the ages of 55 and 69, who researchers have been tracking since 1986. Earlier studies showed that nuts reduced the risk for heart disease, but this current research found that nuts also reduce the odds of death from cancer, diabetes, respiratory conditions, and neurodegenerative diseases. It is believed that healthy fats and fiber in nuts are at least partially responsible for the benefits. Brands of peanut butter made with added salt, sugar, and vegetable oils, which often include trans fat, was not beneficial. The maximum therapeutic amount was 15 grams (half a handful) of nuts daily, but some benefits were also seen with only two-thirds of that amount (10 grams).