The Superheroes of Superfoods

Those squirrels racing around your backyard furiously eating, scattering or hoarding one of their primary food sources are on to something.

Moms on the go should partake of nuts, one of the most popular superfoods around. Nuts such as walnuts and almonds provide us with the healthy fat we need as well as with plenty of fiber and protein.

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“If you want to decrease your risk of cancer, heart disease and diabetes, control your weight with no hunger pangs, and reduce the visible signs of aging such as wrinkles and sagging skin, I recommend that moms ‘go nuts,’” says New York-based health and wellness expert Randi Luckman.

Just look at the benefits of eating this superfood on a regular basis:

They’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Of all the nuts, walnuts have been shown to contain the highest amounts of these important fatty acids. “Alpha-linolenic omega-3 fatty acids lower our LDL (bad) cholesterol and may reduce inflammation in our arteries,” says Luckman. “Walnuts are also a great source of antioxidants, vitamin E, selenium, and magnesium.”

They’re rich in fiber. All nuts contain fiber, which makes us feel full, so we eat less if we’re trying to lose weight or maintain an ideal body weight. Fiber also plays a role in preventing regulating our blood sugar, she says.

They’re rich in protein. Nuts and seeds are roughly 15 to 30 percent protein and an excellent source of mono- and polyunsaturated fats, according to Dr. Wayne Scott Andersen in his bestselling book, “Dr. A’s Habits of Health.” “The steady, powerful fuel they provide makes nuts and seeds great snacks for fueling breaks, with enough protein to give a pleasant, long-lasting feeling of fullness.”

They make great snack food. Enjoy a helping of raw, unsalted nuts between meals, suggests Luckman. “They’re filling, satisfying and healthful.”

That fuel between meals, adds New Jersey-based nutritionist Janet Blum, “helps us keep our metabolism burning most efficiently. It also helps us avoid overeating at meal time.”

Just be sure to limit your intake of this high-octane source of fuel, as the calories can add up fast.

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