1. Almonds and Other Tree Nuts

Though nuts are relatively high in calories, when eaten in moderation, they can actually help you lose weight! In separate studies, researchers at Purdue University and City Hope National Medical Center found that tree nuts, such as almonds, and peanuts increased weight loss in study participants. So enjoy a handful of mixed nuts, or make a custom trail mix of your favorite tree nuts, guilt-free! Nut flour is great for baking, especially if you maintain a gluten-free diet.

2. Kale

We know what you’re thinking: that leafy green stuff? Well, this superfood is not just for rabbits anymore! Kale chips are a popular snack, because they’re good for you and absolutely delicious. They have a subtle crunch and come in a variety of flavors, such as Sea Salt & Vinegar, Spicy Miso, and Cranberry Nut.

3. Dried Fruit

Foods that are high in fiber, such as dried fruit, keep the digestive moving and boost metabolism. Dried plums (or prunes) are especially helpful because of their high iron content, which transports nutrients through the body quickly. Similarly, high potassium in dried bananas helps transfer nutrients to cells, which increases metabolism. Other fruits, such as dried apples and dried raspberries, are also great choices because they’re packed with fiber.

4. Green Tea

Japanese Zen priests were the first to use Matcha Green Tea in ceremonies aiming to achieve beauty, tranquility, and enlightenment. Studies have found that green tea helps burn fat and is high in antioxidants; 100% Matcha Green Tea offers these benefits in highly concentrated form. Mix it with hot water for a comforting beverage (sweeten it with a little honey, if you like!), or use it to make green tea yogurt or ice cream. Yum!

5. Chili Peppers

Capsaicin, the natural chemical in chili peppers that makes you sweat, is precisely what helps you burn energy and lose weight through a metabolic process called thermogenesis. Rehydrate dried chili peppers and add them to curries, soups, and stews to infuse them with flavor. This article shares how to cook with dried chili peppers.

What are your favorite metabolism boosting foods?

The post 5 Metabolism Boosting Foods That Taste Great appeared first on The Nutty Scoop from Nuts.com.

Our Health Nut and Registered Dietitian, Molly Morgan, answers our customers’ most pressing health and nutrition questions and recommends her favorite products!

If you’d like Molly to answer one of your questions in a future blog post, please email your question to health@nuts.com. If we feature your question in The Nutty Scoop, we will also send you a pound of your favorite Nuts.com product.

Diabetes is on the rise in the U.S. According to the latest data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of diagnosed cases of diabetes grew by 50 percent or more in 42 states and by 100 percent or more in 18 states. The CDC estimates that 90 to 95 percent of all diabetes in the United States could be prevented through lifestyle changes.

What can you do to help prevent diabetes? A recent study (Journal of American College of Nutrition, 2011) found that people who regularly eat tree nuts — pistachios, walnuts, almonds, pecans, pine nuts, Brazil nuts and cashews — have a lower risk of Type 2 diabetes. Here are a few ways to incorporate tree nuts into your eating routine to help with diabetes prevention:

Walnuts: Add chopped walnuts to oatmeal and cereals at breakfast.

Cashews: Add cashews to stir-fry and rice dishes.

Did you know that cashews can mimic cream? When cashews are soaked and blended, they develop a creamy texture that is wonderful for salad dressings. Here is what to do: 1. Soak cashews by placing them in a container or bowl, cover with water. Cover the bowl, then place in the refrigerator overnight and let the cashews soak. 2. Drain the water and rinse the cashews. Place them in a blender or food processor with around ¼ cup of water. Blend on high until they are creamy and smooth. 3. Stir in ¼ cup of balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and sea salt to taste. Enjoy!

Pistachios: Lightly toast pistachios and add to salads.

Pine nuts: Use pesto on sandwiches in place of mayonnaise. Try this quick recipe to make a batch of pesto using pine nuts. In a food processor combine 2 cups fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup chicken broth, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, ½ cup pine nuts, and 2-3 cloves of garlic. Combine until chopped.

Brazil nuts: Snack on a handful of mixed nuts that include Brazil nuts, try our Organic Mixed Nuts.

The post Add Tree Nuts to Your Diet for Diabetes Prevention appeared first on The Nutty Scoop from Nuts.com.