Does Eating Nuts Make You Fat?

I was mentioning to one of my clients the other day that I’m consuming nuts in prep for my Bodybuilding show in Sept. She then returned to me: “But aren’t they fattening?” 

So, let’s talk about nuts and whether they make you fat. Probably just like you, I love to eat, but I also love to stay fit. So, let’s get into it.

 

 

The Nut Problem

Now, nuts have been known to get a bad rap when it comes to weight gain. People have even labelled them as “fattening” and “unhealthy.” But let me tell you, it’s not that simple.

The Truth About Nuts

First off, nuts are packed with protein and fiber, which are both important for weight management. Protein helps to keep you full and satisfied, which can prevent overeating. And fiber helps to regulate digestion and keep things moving smoothly.

But let’s get to the real question at hand. Do nuts make you fat? Well, it all comes down to how much you eat. Just like with any other food, if you eat too much of it, you can gain weight. It’s all about moderation, people.

Portion Control

Now, a serving size of nuts is about 30 grams, which is equivalent to a small handful. If you stick to that portion size, you should be just fine. But if you’re downing bags of nuts every day, then yeah, you might see some extra kg’s.

And let’s not forget about the way some nuts…. Like nuts are prepared. Roasted and salted nuts can add extra calories and sodium to your diet, which can contribute to weight gain. So, it’s important to choose unsalted and unroasted nuts whenever possible. I personally opt for Almonds or unsalted mixed nuts.

The Nut Solution

So, what’s the verdict? Do nuts make you fat? The answer is no, they don’t. But if you eat too much of them or choose the wrong kind, then you might see some extra kg’s. Stick to the recommended serving size and choose unsalted, unroasted nuts whenever possible. And don’t forget to balance your diet with other healthy foods, like fruits and veggies.

Personal Experience

As a PT of 35 years, I’ve seen my fair share of clients who struggle with their weight. And let me tell you, nuts are not the problem. It’s usually a combination of factors, including a lack of physical activity and a diet that’s high in processed foods and sugar.

But I’ve also seen clients who have incorporated nuts into their diet in a healthy way and have seen positive results. So, it’s all about finding what works for you and your body.

Keep Pumpin

Steve