Pine Nuts

Pine nuts are the seeds produced by a variety of pine trees. They are covered by a hard shell on the pine cones. Some of the varieties are the Pinus Pin, also known as stone pine, Pinus Edulis which grows in the southwest US, and Pinus Cembroides which is a Mexican pine nut. There are also Chinese, European, and Korean pine nut varieties.

The size of the pine nut ranges from 1 to 5 cm in length. Most pine nuts are harvested by hand which is why they are so expensive to buy.

The bitter nuts are known to be good for the heart, eyes, digestive system, gastrointestinal problems, and also help with inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. They are high in antioxidants which help to eliminate harmful toxins from the body before they can cause any harm.

Pinoleic acid is another nutrient contained in the nuts and it is said to help stimulate the production of hormones. It also acts as an appetite suppressant which is helpful in weight loss. Another way the nuts are used for weight loss by extracting the oil and putting it into a dietary or weight loss supplement.

Not only does the pine nut oil help with weight loss, but it is also effective at reducing high cholesterol and hypertension. Other nutrients found in pine nuts that are good for the heart are the arginine and potassium.

The nuts are a good source of beta-carotene, copper, iodine, iron, magnesium, and zinc. Additionally they are high in vitamin E and vitamins B1, B2, and B3.

Oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that helps the liver and is good for the overall health of the body is also contained in these nuts. Other healthy fatty acids found are the omega 6 and 9.

Amino acids are the building blocks for protein, and among all nuts and seeds, pine nuts are said to have the highest amount. This makes them a perfect substitute for meat and other animal products.

In addition to all the nutrition, pine nuts are an excellent source of fiber which helps to improve digestion almost immediately by sweeping the digestive tract.

Pine nuts have a slightly bitter taste to them and can be eaten raw or toasted, by themselves or mixed into a trail mix. They are good when sprinkled on salads, pasta, or when added to soup. They are also good to make pesto, dip or salad dressing. They are especially good in this raw Greek salad.

Pine nut oil has a mild and nutty flavor and can be used in salads, pasta or soups.