In Ayurveda, nuts are categorized as tonics (having positive effects on body, mind, and spirit) and are nutritives that are strengthening and rejuvenating. They help increase fat, marrow, nerve, and reproductive tissue, and aid in building blood and muscle.
They help to increase immunity (ojas) in the body and are considered Sattvic (pure). Tree nuts also contain phytochemicals, which classify them as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and antivirals. The downside is that nuts are high in calories, heavy, oily, and hard to digest. Therefore, they should be eaten in moderation, particularly for those with Pitta and Kapha constitutions.
Soaking nuts and seeds reduces heat and phytic acid/tannin, which makes them easier to assimilate and absorb. Additionally, blanching and peeling nuts remove their outer covering, thereby increasing their digestibility.
Nuts are an excellent source of fiber and are high in vitamin E, B, calcium, selenium, copper, magnesium, riboflavin, iron, potassium, zinc, niacin, thiamine, and folate. They are believed to protect us from chronic diseases like diabetes and heart issues.
In general, nuts have the sweet and astringent tastes, which are best for Vatas and Pittas, and the Astringent taste is best for Pittas and Kaphas. Nuts are typically heating in nature, which is best for Vata and Kapha.
Vata benefits most from nuts due to their high fat content. Almonds are the best, but roasted ones should be avoided because they are dry. However, salted raw almonds are good, as are nut butters.
Pittas do best with sunflower seeds, pinenuts, and coconut. Blanched and peeled almonds are good because they are cooling.
Kapha’s should limit nuts because of astringency, heaviness, and the increase of Ama (toxins). Walnuts are best because of their heating quality, but sunflower and pumpkin seeds are considered tri-doshic.
Nuts and seeds are considered a good weight loss snack due to their high protein and fiber content, which promotes a feeling of fullness and helps maintain balanced glucose levels.
Avoid nuts if you have poor gut health, digestive issues, bloating, acidity, GERD, diarrhea, IBS, ulcerative colitis, or nut allergies.
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