About Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts have been consumed by people for thousands of years and were long recognized as a symbol for wisdom and knowledge.  Turkey is the largest cultivators of Hazelnuts today.  In the United States, most of the Hazelnuts come from Oregon.

Nutrition Benefits of Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts contain high amounts of protein, fiber, vitamin E, Thiamin (B1), phosphorus, manganese, and magnesium.  They are also a large source of fat, but only 7% of this is saturated fats while the rest are unsaturated fats (known as the “healthier fats”).  75% of the total fat is mono-unsaturated fat (oleic acid) and 13% of the total fat is poly-unsaturated fat (linoleic acid).  Poly-unsaturated and mono-unsaturated fats have both been shown to improve blood cholesterol levels.  An an example, Omega-3 is a type of poly-unsaturated fat.

Hazelnuts also contain flavonoids, which is a type of antioxidant known for brain health, circulation, and allergy support.

Smoothie Tips

While the picture on this page shows the whole hazelnut, do not use the shell in your smoothie.  Just the nut!