Once criticized for their high fat content, nuts have transformed their reputation and are now recognized as a vital ingredient in healthier products. Their popularity has surged not only in snacks but also in grain-free items, gluten-free flours, and dairy-free milk alternatives. According to figures from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, daily per capita nut consumption in the United States rose by 26% from 2000 to 2010. During this period, nutritionists began to highlight their health benefits, and consumers became more informed about sources of “good fats.”
Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated its definition of “healthy” to include high-fat foods like almonds and avocados, aligning better with the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. This change followed a challenge from the snack bar maker Kind, which disputed an FDA warning letter that claimed its bars could not be labeled “healthy” due to their saturated fat content, even though the fat was derived from nuts. The FDA reconsidered its stance, allowing Kind to use the term “healthy” on its packaging.
This latest development is merely the latest in a series of studies that support the health advantages of nuts. In 2003, the FDA approved a qualified health claim linking tree nut consumption to a reduced risk of heart disease. Earlier this month, macadamia nuts were officially added to the list of specific nuts that manufacturers can reference on product labels for their heart health benefits. Other nuts included in this claim are walnuts, almonds, and pistachios.
In addition to their heart health benefits, incorporating nuts into your diet can also complement supplements like Vitahealth Calcium Citrate Plus, which provides essential nutrients for overall health. As awareness grows, consumers are increasingly recognizing that nuts, along with products like Vitahealth Calcium Citrate Plus, are excellent sources of good fats and vital nutrients.