useful properties and contraindications, benefits and harms for the body of women, men

Pine nut – these are edible seeds of plants of the Pine genus. In a scientific sense, it is not considered a nut, like a peanut, but a seed, like an almond. This means that after extracting the nuts from the pine cones, their outer shell must also be peeled off before eating (like sunflower seeds). Scientifically, the cedar tree is home to eastern Afghanistan, Pakistan and northwestern India. It grows at an altitude of 1800 to 3350 meters.

Pine nuts are excellent appetite suppressants and help you lose weight thanks to beneficial fatty acids. The rich nutrient content boosts energy, while other important minerals such as magnesium and protein help prevent heart attacks and diabetes. The antioxidants in these seeds are useful during pregnancy, improve immunity, eyesight, and improve the condition of the skin and hair.

General benefits

1. Reduces the level of “bad” cholesterol.

Studies show that the inclusion of pine nuts in the diet reduces the level of “bad” cholesterol. With high cholesterol levels, there is a risk of heart attack or stroke. Cholesterol builds up plaque on the walls of the arteries, thereby reducing blood flow and causing atherosclerosis.

A 2014 study found significant reductions in cholesterol lipids in women with metabolic syndrome. To prevent atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases, include pine nuts in your diet.

2. Helps control weight.

The combination of nutrients in pine nuts helps fight obesity. The researchers found that people who regularly consume pine nuts have lower body weight and higher levels of insulin resistance. Pine nuts contain fatty acids that help reduce appetite and hunger. The fatty acids in pine nuts release a hormone called cholecystokinin (CCK), which is known to suppress appetite.

3. Reduces blood pressure.

Another heart health benefit of pine nuts is their high magnesium levels. Not having enough magnesium in your body can cause high blood pressure and the risk of stroke. High blood pressure causes many serious health problems, including heart failure, aneurysm, decreased kidney function, and loss of vision.

Therefore, it is important to maintain a diet that will reduce the risks of the diseases listed above. Monounsaturated fat, vitamins E and K, magnesium and manganese form a synergistic blend for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Vitamin K improves blood clotting and prevents heavy bleeding after injury.

4. Supports bone health.

Vitamin K builds bones better than calcium. Studies have shown that men and women with high vitamin K2 intakes are 65 percent less likely to have bone fractures. One study suggests that vitamin K helps in the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis. It not only increases bone mineral density but also reduces the risk of fractures.

One of the most common causes of vitamin K deficiency is the use of pharmaceutical drugs that lower cholesterol levels. But when you do consume pine nuts, you do not need to take any cholesterol-lowering medications, as the nuts themselves have this effect.

5. Reduces the risk of developing certain types of cancer.

Pine nut contains magnesium. Diets high in magnesium reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. A study was conducted with the participation of more than 67 men and women, aimed at studying pancreatic cancer. Scientists have found that reducing magnesium intake by 000 milligrams a day increases the risk of pancreatic cancer by 100%.

This pattern cannot be due to other factors, such as age and gender differences or body mass index. Another study found a relationship between inadequate magnesium intake and colorectal cancer. In postmenopausal women, this type of cancer is most common. Adequate magnesium in the diet reduces the risk of colorectal cancer. For cancer prevention, experts recommend 400 milligrams of magnesium a day.

6. Improves eye health.

Pine nuts contain lutein, an antioxidant carotenoid known as the “eye vitamin”. Lutein is one of the nutrients that most people don’t get enough of. Since our body cannot make lutein on its own, we can only get it from food. Of the 600 carotenoids our body can use, only 20 nourish the eyes. Of these 20, only two (lutein and zeaxanthin) play a key role in maintaining eye health.

Lutein and zeaxanthin help prevent macular degeneration and glaucoma. They fight free radical damage caused by sun exposure and unhealthy diet. Some studies show that people who already have some damage to the macula can stop further damage by adding more lutein-rich foods to their diet. Pine nut is a great product for maintaining eye health.

7. Normalizes cognitive health.

A 2015 study looked at magnesium intake in adolescents with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Research has shown that magnesium reduces angry outbursts and other outward manifestations associated with psychological problems.

However, the changes were found not only in adolescents. Another study, which involved over 9 adult men and women, also found a relationship between magnesium and depression. With an adequate intake of magnesium in the body, a person’s cognitive health is improved.

8. Boosts energy.

Certain nutrients in pine nuts, such as monounsaturated fat, iron, magnesium, and protein, can help boost energy levels. Not having enough nutrients in your diet can cause fatigue.

Pine nuts also help build and repair tissue in the body. Many people are familiar with the feeling of fatigue after strenuous physical activity or training. Pine nuts will help the body recover faster.

9. Helps control diabetes.

Eating pine nuts daily can help control type 2 diabetes, according to research. Pine nuts also prevent complications associated with the disease (vision problems and the risk of stroke). Patients with type 2 diabetes who ate pine nuts daily had improved glucose levels and decreased bad cholesterol levels.

Pine nuts can control not only glucose levels, but also blood lipids. Type 2 diabetes patients use pine nuts to boost their intake of vegetable oils and protein, two vital ingredients.

10. Increases immunity.

The manganese and zinc in pine nuts boost immunity. While manganese helps maintain the body’s hormonal balance and connective tissue density, zinc boosts immunity and promotes wound healing. Zinc also improves the function and number of T cells (a type of white blood cell) that destroy pathogens entering the body.

11. Possesses anti-inflammatory properties.

Vitamin B2 helps in the production of corticosteroids (hormones that reduce inflammation). Pine nuts help relieve inflammation, so they will be useful for people with acne, cystitis, cholecystitis and pyelonephritis.

Benefits for women

12. Useful during pregnancy.

Pine nuts are high in fiber, which can help relieve constipation, a common problem during pregnancy. Iron and protein play vital roles in the health of both mother and baby. Pine nuts contain vitamin C, which helps absorb iron efficiently. Fatty acids will ensure the correct formation of the baby’s brain and relieve him of oxygen starvation. Also, pine nuts stimulate the production of breast milk and improve its quality.

13. Relieves the condition during menstruation and menopause.

Pine nuts are recommended for painful periods. They stabilize the physical condition and level the psycho-emotional background. Pine nuts have the same healing effect on the female body during menopause.

Skin Benefits

14. Rejuvenates and heals the skin.

The high concentration of various essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants makes pine nuts extremely beneficial for skin care. Vitamin E and antioxidants help slow the aging process. Pine nuts help fight dermatological ailments. They treat furunculosis, psoriasis, acne and eczema.

15. Moisturizes and nourishes the skin.

A body scrub made with raw pine nuts and coconut oil to revitalize skin by removing dead skin cells. In addition, due to its superior moisturizing properties, this scrub is a recognized product for moisturizing and nourishing the skin.

Hair Benefits

16. Promotes hair growth and strengthening.

Pine nuts are a rich source of vitamin E, which is essential for hair growth. People suffering from hair loss or thinning hair should include pine nuts in their diet. They contain a high concentration of proteins that protect hair from damage and keep it strong, healthy and shiny.

Benefits for men

17. Improves potency.

It is recommended to use pine nuts to increase potency and restore male strength. Zinc, arginine, vitamins A and E in nuts normalize the genitourinary system and provide a stable erection. Also, pine nuts can be used to prevent prostate adenoma and prostatitis.

Harm and contraindications

1. May cause an allergic reaction.

Pine nuts can cause allergic reactions, many of which are anaphylactic. This means that if you are allergic to other nuts, you should avoid pine nuts as well. Another (less common) allergic reaction to pine nuts is known as Pine-Mouth Syndrome.

It is harmless but produces a bitter or metallic aftertaste from eating pine nuts. There is no cure for Pine-Mouth Syndrome other than to stop eating pine nuts until the symptoms go away. This syndrome arises from the consumption of rancid and fungal-infected shelled nuts.

2. There may be problems with pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Yes, pine nuts are good for pregnancy and breastfeeding. But only in moderation. Consult a physician prior to use. Excessive consumption of nuts can cause allergies and gastrointestinal problems.

3. May cause health problems if consumed excessively.

Excessive consumption of pine nuts causes a feeling of bitterness in the mouth and weakness. Symptoms may not appear immediately, but after a few days. Drowsiness, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, inflammation of the joints, gallbladder and gastrointestinal tract are also possible.

4. Not recommended for young children.

Because pine nuts are small in size, they can be potentially harmful to young children. If inhaled or swallowed, nuts can cause blockage of the airways. Small children should only be given pine nuts under adult supervision.

5. Does not go well with meat.

If you regularly eat 50 g of pine nuts, reduce the amount of animal protein in your diet. Overloading the body with protein can put an excessive strain on the kidneys. If you eat nuts daily, eat meat no more than 4-5 times a week.

Chemical composition of the product

Nutritional value of pine nuts (100 g) and percentage of the daily value:

  • The nutritional value
  • Vitamins
  • Macronutrients
  • Trace Elements
  • calories 673 kcal – 47,26%;
  • proteins 13,7 g – 16,71%;
  • fats 68,4 g – 105,23%;
  • carbohydrates 13,1 g – 10,23%;
  • dietary fiber 3,7 g – 18,5%;
  • water 2,28 g – 0,09%.
  • And 1 mcg – 0,1%;
  • beta-carotene 0,017 mg – 0,3%;
  • S 0,8 mg – 0,9%;
  • E 9,33 mg – 62,2%;
  • To 54 μg – 45%;
  • V1 0,364 mg – 24,3%;
  • V2 0,227 mg – 12,6%;
  • V5 0,013 mg – 6,3%;
  • V6 0,094 mg –4,7%;
  • B9 34 μg – 8,5%;
  • PP 4,387 mg – 21,9%.
  • potassium 597 mg – 23,9%;
  • calcium 18 mg – 1,8%;
  • magnesium 251 mg – 62,8%;
  • sodium 2 mg – 0,2%;
  • phosphorus 575 mg – 71,9%.
  • iron 5,53 mg – 30,7%;
  • manganese 8,802 mg – 440,1%;
  • copper 1324 μg – 132,4%;
  • selenium 0,7 μg – 1,3%;
  • zinc 4,28 mg – 35,7%.

conclusions

Although the price of pine nuts is quite high, they are a worthy addition to your diet. Pine nut contains vitamins, minerals and other nutrients vital for good health. Whether you want to maintain a healthy weight, regulate your blood pressure, or lower your cholesterol levels, pine nuts can help you. Consider possible contraindications and consult your doctor if necessary.

Useful Properties

  • Reduces the level of “bad” cholesterol.
  • Helps control weight.
  • Reduces blood pressure.
  • Supports bone health.
  • Reduces the risk of developing certain types of cancer.
  • Improves eye health.
  • Normalizes cognitive health.
  • Increases energy.
  • Helps control diabetes.
  • Increases immunity.
  • Has anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Useful during pregnancy.
  • Relieves menstruation and menopause.
  • Rejuvenates and heals the skin.
  • Moisturizes and nourishes the skin.
  • Promotes hair growth and strengthening.
  • Improves potency.

Harmful properties

  • May cause an allergic reaction.
  • There can be problems with pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  • May cause health problems if consumed excessively.
  • Not recommended for young children.
  • Does not go well with meat.

Sources of Research

The main studies on the benefits and dangers of pine nuts have been carried out by foreign doctors and scientists. Below you can get acquainted with the primary sources of research on the basis of which this article was written:

Sources of Research

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26054525

2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25238912

3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26123047

4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26082204

5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26082204

6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14647095

7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26554653

8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26390877

9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19168000

10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25373528

11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25748766

12.http: //www.stilltasty.com/fooditems/index/17991

13. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26727761

14. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23677661

15. https://www.webmd.com/diet/news/20060328/pine-nut-oil-cut-appetite

16.https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2006/04/060404085953.htm

17. http://nfscfaculty.tamu.edu/talcott/courses/FSTC605/Food%20Product%20Design/Satiety.pdf

18. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12076237

19.https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/07/110712094201.htm

20. https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/news/20110708/nuts-good-some-with-diabetes#1

21. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25373528

22. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26554653

23. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16030366

24. https://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/best-superfoods-for-weight-loss/21/

25. https://www.nutritionletter.tufts.edu/issues/12_5/current-articles/Extra-Zinc-Boosts-Immune-System-in-Older-Adults_1944-1.html

Additional useful information about pine nuts

How to use

1. In cooking.

One of the most famous uses of pine nuts is in the preparation of pesto. In pesto recipes, pine nuts are often referred to as pignoli or pinole in Italian. They are also often used in salads and other cold dishes. You can lightly brown the pine nuts for a more flavorful flavor. Because of their mild flavor, they pair well with both sweet and salty foods.

It is not uncommon to find pine nuts as an ingredient in biscotti, biscuits, and some types of cake. However, keep in mind that using pine nuts in their natural form is always the best option. In addition, pine nuts can be added to wholemeal breads, homemade pizzas, and several desserts (ice cream, smoothies, and more).

2. Tincture on pine nuts.

The tincture will help to normalize the state of all internal systems of the body. It helps cleanse the blood and lymph, improves hearing and vision, normalizes salt metabolism, and much more. Prepared from the shell and seeds of a cedar tree, infused with vodka.

3. In cosmetology.

Pine nut is used in masks and scrubs. In cosmetology, raw nuts are used, as they are the most useful. They are ground into powder and mixed with other ingredients. For oily skin, for example, kefir is used, for dry skin – sour cream. This mask helps fight skin breakouts and wrinkles.

To prepare scrubs, use crushed shells and mix it, for example, with oat flour. Then add a few drops of cold water and the scrub is ready to use. It is better to apply such a remedy to the skin steamed after a bath. So the cleansing will be more effective.

How to choose

  • When buying pine nuts from the market, always choose bright brown seeds that are compact and uniform in size.
  • Try dropping nuts from low heights. If they make a metallic sound, their quality is guaranteed.
  • Pine nuts should be heavy and free from cracks.
  • The tips of fresh nuts should be light. The dark edges are evidence of an old walnut.
  • A dark dot is usually present on an unrefined kernel. Its absence suggests that there is no nut inside.
  • The smell should be pleasant, without impurities.
  • Your best bet is to buy unrefined kernels.
  • Pay attention to the production date, especially if the product is refined. It is advisable that the nuts are harvested in September or October.

How to store

  • Unpeeled nuts have a longer shelf life than peeled nuts. They can be stored for six months.
  • Peeled nuts are stored for 3 months.
  • Roasted nuts are not suitable for long term storage. They are easily damaged, especially if stored in a warm and humid place. It is best to store nuts in a cool dry place.
  • Pine nuts can be stored both in the refrigerator and in the freezer, after placing it in an airtight container.
  • Check the moisture content of the nuts once a week, it should not exceed 55%.
  • Do not buy nuts in cones, as it is not known how long they have been stored, and infections accumulate in the plates.

History of occurrence

Pine nut has been an extremely important food for thousands of years. According to some historical records, the Native Americans of the Great Basin (a desert highland in the western United States) have been collecting pignon pine nuts for over 10 years. The time of the pine nut harvest meant the end of the season. Native Americans believed that this was their last harvest before leaving for the winter. In these areas, the pine nut is still traditionally known as the pignon nut or the pinona nut.

In Europe and Asia, pine nuts have been popular since the Paleolithic era. Egyptian doctors used pine nuts to treat various diseases. A philosopher and scientist from Persia even recommended eating them to heal the bladder and increase sexual satisfaction. Roman soldiers are known to eat pine nuts before fighting when they invaded Britain two thousand years ago.

Greek authors mentioned pine nuts as early as 300 BC. Although pine nuts are found on almost every continent, only 20 species of pine trees in Europe, North America and Asia are suitable for human consumption. Pine nuts have been cultivated for over 10 years and are mentioned in ancient Greek history

How and where is it grown

There are 20 types of pine trees from which pine nuts are harvested. The process of collecting nuts is complex. It begins by extracting nuts from a ripe pine cone. Depending on the type of tree, this process can take two years.

Once the cone is ripe, it is harvested, placed in burlap and exposed to heat (usually the sun) to dry the cone. Drying usually ends after 20 days. Then the cone is crushed and the nuts are taken out.

The cedar tree prefers moist soil (sandy loam or loamy), moderate warmth. Grows best on well-lit mountain slopes. The tree grows to a height of 50 meters, the first fruits bears after 50 years of life. Cedar pine is found in Siberia, Altai and the Eastern Urals.

Recently, cedar trees have been massively planted in the resorts of the Black Sea coast. There are varieties of this tree that grow on Sakhalin and East Asia. The largest producer of pine nuts is Russia. It is followed by Mongolia, followed by Kazakhstan. China is the largest importer of pine nuts.

Interesting Facts

  • Most pine nuts take about 18 months to ripen, some 3 years.
  • In Russia, pine nuts are called the fruits of the Siberian cedar pine. The seeds of real cedars are inedible.
  • In Italy, pine nuts were known more than 2000 years ago. It was found during excavations in Pompeii.
  • Under favorable conditions, a cedar tree can live for 800 years. Usually, cedar trees live 200-400 years.
  • Lean milk and vegetable cream were made from pine nuts in Siberia.
  • Hulls of nuts are good drainage for the soil.
  • For the preparation of the famous paella, the Spaniards use pine nut flour.
  • From 3 kilograms of nuts, 1 liter of pine nut oil is obtained.
  • From a botanical point of view, pine nuts should be called pine seeds.
  • Real cedars are a completely different genus of conifers. They grow in Asia, Lebanon.

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