These little tree nuts were mentioned in ancient Greek history and eaten by Roman soldiers as ‘’campaign food’’ while they invaded Britannia 2000 years ago. They were also very popular during the Middle Ages.

Found in only 18 species of pine trees in Europe, North America and Asia, cultivated for over 10.000 years.

Packed with vitamins and essential minerals for the human body, their incredible fats help with satiety and are even used to treat obesity.

Magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, niacin, Vitamin E, Vitamin K and B12.

1. Lower cholesterol: research shows improvement in cholesterol levels in quite short time PMID: 25238912, PMID: 26054525
2. Maintain healthy weight
3. Lower blood pressure: their high level of magnesium aid with lower blood pressure and hence stroke risks, PMID: 26082204
4. Support bone health: thanks to their content of vitamin K (a better bone builder than calcium) PMID: 14647095
5. Lower risk of some cancers: an ounce of pine nuts accounts for 18% of RDI of magnesium, while diets richer in magnesium are related to lower risks of different cancers PMID: 26554653
6. Better eye health: thanks to their content of lutein (a carotenoid antioxidant known as a vitamin for the eyes). Lutein is what prevent macular degeneration and glaucoma by fighting free radical damage caused by blue light, excessive sun exposure and a bad diet. PMID: 19168000
7. Mood balance: studies have related low intakes of magnesium with less externalising behaviour (angry outbursts, depression, anxiety, ADHD) PMID: 25373528

Pine nuts have been a really important food not only for nourishment but also as treatment for different illnesses (related to coughing and chest issues), bladder problems and was even used as an aphrodisiac.