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Review
. 2023 Feb 14;15(4):955.
doi: 10.3390/nu15040955.

Novel Lines of Research on the Environmental and Human Health Impacts of Nut Consumption

Linda Tapsell  1 , Joan Sabaté  2 , Raquel Martínez  2 , Marc Llavanera  3   4 , Elizabeth Neale  1 , Albert Salas-Huetos  5   6   7
Affiliations
Review

Novel Lines of Research on the Environmental and Human Health Impacts of Nut Consumption

Linda Tapsell et al. Nutrients. .

Abstract

Nuts have formed part of human diets throughout the ages. In recent decades, research has shown they are key foods in dietary patterns associated with lower chronic disease risk. The current state of climate change, however, has introduced an imperative to review the impact of dietary patterns on the environment with a shift to plant-based diets. Nuts emerge as a significant source of protein in plant-based diets and are a minimally processed and sustainable food. Research in this area is evolving to drive better production methods in varying climate conditions. Nevertheless, nut consumption remains an important contributor to human health. The mechanisms of action can be explained in terms of the nutrients they deliver. Studies of nut consumption have linked components such as monounsaturated fatty acids, plant omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and plant sterols to improved lipoprotein profiles, lower blood pressure, and reduced cardiovascular disease risk. Preliminary research also indicates possible beneficial effects of nut consumption on reproductive health. In any case, the ultimate effects of foods on health are the results of multiple interactive factors, so where nuts fit within dietary patterns is a significant consideration for research translation. This has implications for research methodologies, including categorization within food groups and inclusion in Healthy Dietary Indices. The aim of this narrative review is to outline new focal points for investigation that examine the environmental and some novel human health impacts of nut consumption and discuss future directions for research.

Keywords: diet; dietary patterns; environment; nuts; reproduction; sexual function; sustainability.

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Conflict of interest statement

L.T., J.S., E.N. and A.S.-H. have received research funding through their institutions from several nut commodity boards. L.T. and J.S. were non-paid members of California Walnut Commission Scientific (CWC) Advisory Council. J.S. has received honoraria from the CWC for presentations. All other authors declare no competing interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Characteristics of foods in a diet that determines its sustainability. The graphic illustrates that a sustainable diet has a higher proportion of foods that are plant-based, whole, in-season, and consumed with no or minimal waste [18].
Figure 2
Figure 2
Relative Environmental Impacts of Protein Food Sources in relation to protein from beans [23].
Figure 3
Figure 3
Supplement/nutrient intake, food consumption, and dietary pattern adherence positively associated with sperm quality parameters [61].
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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Grants and funding

The NUTS 2022 conference was planned by the Rovira i Virgili University, with all the expenses of the organization covered by Barcelo Congresos, including the fees related to publishing the Proceedings in Nutrients. Barcelo Congresos SA has received funds from the International Nut & Dried Fruit Council (INC). Neither the researchers attending the NUTS 2022 Conference, nor the Rovira i Virgili University have received funds from the INC for this manuscript. Researchers’ travel expenses and accommodation have been covered by Barcelo Congresos. Researchers did not receive any additional financial support related to their participation in the NUTS 2022 conference. Sponsors did not have any role in organizing the conference, selecting, or inviting the speakers, nor in the writing or reviewing the proceedings of the conference.

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