Hazelnuts are a rich source of nutrients that have cardioprotective benefits. These nutrients include vitamin E, folate, B vitamins and arginine (an amino acid that relaxes blood vessels). Hazelnuts also have one the lowest percentages of saturated fat (along with pinenuts and almonds) and one of the best nut sources of heart healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fats. Numerous studies have shown unsaturated fats can lower blood cholesterol and help decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease. The favorable fatty acid profile is another reason why hazelnuts are great heart-smart snacks.
