Nuts for a Healthy Weight

A number of previous studies suggest an inverse association between the frequency of nut consumption and body mass index (BMI) and risk of obesity.   Gemma Flores-Mateo, from the Institut Universitari d'Investigacio en Atencio Primaria Jordi Gol (Spain), and colleagues completed a neta-analysisis of data resulting from 31 worldwide studies and found not only that most of the studies don't show that patients gain a significant amount of weight – but that nuts – as part of a healthy, balanced diet – can help to stabilize insulin and suppress hunger.  The study authors conclude that: “diets enriched with nuts did not increase body weight, body mass index, or waist circumference in controlled clinical trials.”