Nuts and seeds should be added to the “five-a-day” guidelines, a report suggests today.
The nutritional benefits of dried fruits, such as almonds and walnuts, and seeds, such as flax and poppy, are comparable to those of fruits and vegetables, he says.
But if they are not promoted in public health campaigns, they are often “overlooked” as a healthy food source.
Experts suggest that incorporating them into the well-known “5 a day” mantra would increase fiber intake in the country, improving overall health.
Studies have increasingly linked a daily handful of nuts and seeds to everything from lower chances of heart disease to cancer.
The nutritional benefits of nuts, such as almonds and walnuts, and seeds, such as flax and poppy, are comparable to those of fruits and vegetables, according to a report.
Experts suggest that incorporating them into the well-known “5 a day” mantra would increase fiber intake in the country, improving overall health.
Studies have increasingly linked a daily handful of nuts and seeds to everything from lower chances of heart disease to cancer.
While dried fruit already counts, NHS guidelines state that they “should be consumed during meals, not as a snack between meals, to reduce the risk of cavities” and nuts and seeds do not feature.
Nutritionists argue that this overlooks potential health benefits and is out of step with other national dietary recommendations such as Denmark, Belgium and Germany.
They argue that people should be encouraged to eat them before other snacks, usually high in salt, fat and sugar, to reduce obesity and other diseases.
Dr Max Gowland, biochemist and founder of the Prime Fifty range of nutritional health supplements and author of the report, said the country’s health status “urgently needs improvement”.
He said: ‘The scientific data on the nutritional profiles of nuts, seeds and dried fruits is very compelling.
‘It is entirely reasonable to say that we should not only try to increase our intake of nuts, seeds and dried fruit, but also explore ways to improve the promotion of these products.
Dr Max Gowland (pictured), biochemist and founder of the Prime Fifty range of nutritional health supplements and author of the report, said the country’s health status “urgently needs improvement”.
Dr Gowland said: “The scientific data on the nutritional profiles of nuts, seeds and dried fruits is very compelling.”
Nutritionists argue that people should be encouraged to eat nuts and seeds before other snacks, usually high in salt, fat and sugar, to reduce obesity and other diseases.
“This increased consumption would certainly result in increased intake of essential micronutrients, beneficial saturated fats, and increased intake of dietary fiber.” Nuts have had a difficult time shaking off the “unhealthy” label due to their high fat content, although most are now considered “good” fats.
They are generally considered a nutrient-rich food that provides fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals and other micronutrients that could help reduce the risk of heart and circulatory diseases.
A systematic review of nuts last year suggested that eating more nuts reduced the chances of heart attack and stroke by more than a fifth.
The British Nutrition Foundation recommends a diet with more whole, minimally processed foods, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains, as the best approach for long-term health.
Chief executive Elaine Hindal said: “These foods can play an important role in diets that follow the Eatwell Guide and are often overlooked when considering the gap between the amount of fiber we consume as a nation and the level of fiber we we know it’s important.” to ensure general health.
Tim Spector, Professor of Genetic Epidemiology (pictured), King’s College London, said it offers “compelling evidence” for the vital role these foods could play in improving the country’s diet.
Spector said: “This comprehensive review, supported by a large body of rigorous research, establishes a very compelling argument for the inclusion of nuts, seeds and also dried fruits in our daily dietary practices.”
Officials said that while they recognize that nuts and seeds can be part of a healthy, balanced diet, they are not classified as fruits or vegetables and therefore do not count towards your five-a-day intake.
“Beyond the nutritional benefits of dried fruits, nuts and seeds in recommended amounts, we recognize that they may have practical benefits as a convenient alternative to on-the-go snacks high in fat, salt and sugar, an important element to overcome Common challenges in the UK diet.’ The report, commissioned by Whitworths, has been submitted as evidence for the review currently being carried out by the Food, Diet and Obesity committee.
Tim Spector, professor of Genetic Epidemiology at King’s College London, said it offers “compelling evidence” for the critical role these foods could play in improving the country’s diet.
He said: “This comprehensive review, backed by a large body of rigorous research, establishes a very compelling case for the inclusion of nuts, seeds and also dried fruits in our daily dietary practices.”
“Adding these foods to the recommended five daily servings of fruit and vegetables, swapping ultra-processed snacks for these whole foods, along with a major government-led awareness campaign, could move the UK closer to nutrient consumption.” beneficial and beneficial for health, moving away from ultra-processed foods. appetizers.’
Officials said that while they recognize that nuts and seeds can be part of a healthy, balanced diet, they are not classified as fruits or vegetables and therefore do not count towards the five meals a day.
The NHS Food Scanner app, which has been downloaded more than five million times, is used to help people see what is in their food and drink and encourages them to make healthier choices by suggesting alternatives to foods such as cereals for the breakfast, prepared meals and cookies. , chips and soft drinks.
A government spokesperson added: “We encourage everyone to maintain a healthy, balanced diet including at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day.”