Nuts are a great source of protein, fat and minerals, and they provide a healthy boost of energy whenever we need it most. Let’s take a close look at some of the most nutritious nuts you can include in your diet.

Walnuts. Walnuts are incredibly delicious and pack a punch in nutrition: They’re chock-full of antioxidants and proteins that blanket a wide range of health benefits. They’re widely known as a superfood because of near-instant improved body stamina that occurs shortly after consumption.

Try creating packing a trail mix for work that includes walnuts that you can crunch when you get sleepy in the slow hours of the afternoon, or before a long workout.

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Almonds. This popular tree nut is loaded with important nutrients. One of the most popular unique benefits of the almond is how it impacts skin health. Consuming them raw and using them in different forms (almond oil and almond milk from many skin care products) is proven to improve skin complexion.

If you don’t love the taste of raw almonds, try turning them to a different form by soaking them overnight and processing the soaked almonds until the oils are released, the processed almonds liquefy, and a “cheese-like” substance is formed (this will take about 20 minutes). Mix in some olive oil, salt and pepper, and you have a fantastic, healthy dip for veggies!

Macadamia nuts. Because macadamia nuts are so low in saturated fats and cholesterol, they significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, anti-inflammatory conditions, antiaggregatory disease, and immunomodulating diseases.

Macadamia nuts are fantastic when broken down into oil form; while it can be consumed in a diet this way, it can also be used as a beauty aid – it’s easily absorbed into the skin without leaving a greasy feeling, and is a great moisturizer for hair and skin.

Related: Apple Cider Vinegar: 10 Amazing Health Benefits

Pecans. That energizing boost you need before a workout might as well come from a tasty nut like the pecan, which will do the trick with flying colors! Pecans are incredibly rich in nutrients, minerals, antioxidants and vitamins, and they’re also rich in monounsaturated fatty acids. They’re perfect for baking into a tasty treat without feeling the guilt that might come along with a different choice.

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Hazelnuts. They smell amazing and carry amazing flavor, so you’ll be thrilled to learn that hazelnuts are among the most nutritious nuts you can find. They’re a great source of vitamins, minerals, protein, fiber and iron, and they give the body several nutrients via these avenues, which are vital for maintaining top-notch health. Find an organic hazelnut coffee to enjoy the benefits as well as the aroma and the subtle taste of hazelnuts.

Related: How Sweet It Is

There, you have your top-five nutritious nuts to snack on solo, add to your trail mix, or use as a topping for meals.

This article originally appeared in VIVA GLAM Magazine

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