Many scientific studies worldwide agree that it is one of the most important nutraceutical oil fruits. Nutraceutical foods can offer fundamental nutrients and substances that can prevent a large number of diseases, nourish properly and provide all the essential elements for prevention and maintaining health.
As many people know, they are high-fat, almost 64%. That would lead one to believe that they are the enemy of the figure. In fact, it is exactly the opposite, as the fatty acids in question are omega 3 and omega 6, (fatty acids both monounsaturated (38.62%) and unsaturated (5.2%) and saturated (4.61%), universally known as friends of our well-being. Omega are biologically active fatty acids, and are: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) omega 6, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) omega 3. Hazelnuts are naturally cholesterol-free, and have the ability to lower the level of "bad" LDL-cholesterol, while increasing the "good" HDL-cholesterol, as widely documented in the international scientific literature.
Omega 3 and 6 lower triglyceride levels and prevent the accumulation of "bad" cholesterol in the blood vessels, thin the blood by preventing the formation of thrombi or atherosclerotic plaques and thus maintain normal blood pressure levels, prevent coronary artery disease, heart failure and myocardial infarction; reduce the damage caused by chronic hyperglycaemia; contribute to neurological and cognitive functions; and help maintain joint mobility.
Omega 3 and 6 together with the natural anti-oxidant and anti-ageing vitamin E, in which hazelnuts are rich, keep the skin moisturised, supple and toned, preventing ageing. They are allies of women's beauty and health, as they provide powerful help for those suffering from premenstrual syndrome or to prevent menopausal disorders. They have a strong satiating power, so meaning that 30 g hazelnuts (15/20 hazelnuts) can be an excellent snack, even in the most drastic low-calorie diets. They are rich in noble fibres, 8.1%, which contribute to satiety and digestion.
They also contain B vitamins, especially B1 and B2, which strengthen the immune system, are tonic and restorative, and protect and nourish nerve fibres and eyesight. Rich in Magnesium, Zinc, Selenium and Copper, they prevent cellular ageing and physical fatigue .
They have 13.8% vegetable protein, with some essential amino acids, making them an excellent food for sportsmen and women, including vegans and vegetarians, because they help strengthen muscles, balance energy after and during intense and prolonged muscle work, and are convenient to eat. With their good calcium, magnesium and potassium content , they help to balance salt water after intense training, preventing cramps and fatigue. All these characteristics make them the smart food for all ages and health conditions.
From an organoleptic point of view, hazelnuts offer a unique sensory experience. Their crunchy, buttery texture is combined with a delicate, slightly sweet flavour. This combination of texture and flavour gives hazelnuts an irresistible appeal for many people. No circumstances require the elimination of hazelnut consumption, except in cases of intolerance or allergy.
Not only fruits, however, can have nutritious properties. It is believed that the harvested and dried leaves, or the spring bark of the youngest branches, are excellent for making herbal teas with diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and vasoconstrictive properties in the case of haemorrhoids and varicose veins, to relieve symptoms.
They are versatile in cooking and their uses range from sweet to savoury. Whole hazelnut paste, for example, can be used pure, as a meat accompaniment, even in cooking, to season a pasta for a healthy and tasty first course, or used in many sweet preparations.