With a handful of nuts a day keeps the shape and mood

Nuts are useful in combating abdominal fat and the regulation of appetite, find researchers from the University of Barcelona.


First study finds link between nut consumption and higherlevels of serotonin. It is believed that the hormone reduces appetite, increases feelings of happiness and satisfaction and improve heart health.


To take advantage of the health benefits of nuts, it is necessaryto eat a handful of raw and unpeeled nuts, almonds andhazelnuts a day.


The researchers said the discovery is important for people withmetabolic syndrome, characterized by excess fat, high blood sugar and blood pressure.

The study involved 22 volunteers who suffer from metabolic syndrome. For 12 weeks they observe a diet rich in nuts.


It turns out that those who eat in '30 mixed nuts a day havehigher levels of serotonin compared to people who do not consume these products.


Serotonin is a neurotransmitter and helps the transmission ofimpulses from one department to another in the brain. Althoughit is secreted in the brain, where it performs its functions, about 90% of serotonin in the body is located in the digestive tract and blood platelets.

soucre: Journal of Proteome Research.