11 Health Benefits Of Pine Nuts, Recipes, And Side Effects

Pine nuts are acquired from the forests of popular conifer pine, whose benefits are numerous. Unless you are allergic to them, they can be included in your diet to reap the health benefits they offer. These nuts have a delicious flavor, and they have been cultivated for thousands of years.

Pine nuts, if consumed in moderation, can promote your overall health. Want to know how? Keep reading to learn more about pine nuts and how to add them to your diet!

Know Your Ingredient: Pine Nut

What Is It?
An edible seed of the pine tree.

What Are Its Benefits?
Pine nut can suppress appetites, aid weight loss, prevent heart attacks, boost immunity, improve vision, and enhance skin and hair health.

Who Can Consume It?
Everyone except individuals with conditions like arthritis and IBD.

How Often?
You can consume 2 tablespoons or around 30 gms of pine nut daily.

Caution
People allergic to tree nuts might be allergic to pine nut as well.

What Are Pine Nuts?

Pine nuts are merely the edible seeds of pine trees. Scientifically called Pinus gerardiana, the pine tree is native to eastern Afghanistan, Pakistan, and northwestern India, and grows at elevations between 1800 and 3350 meters.

Also called ‘pignon’ in French, ‘piñones’ in Spanish, ‘pinienkernen’ in German, and ‘koukounari’ in Greek, there are 20 species of pine trees that produce pine seeds. The most commonly harvested pine seeds come from four pine tree varieties – the Mexican pinon, the Colorado pinon, the Chinese nut pine, and the Italian stone pine.

Trivia

Russia is the largest producer of pine nuts in the world followed by Mongolia. China is the largest consumer.

What Is The History Of Pine Nuts?

These nuts have been an important food for thousands of years. In fact, the native Americans from the Great Basin had harvested these nuts for over 10,000 years. Nomadic hunter-gatherers may have started harvesting pine nuts as far back as 10000 BC, before they became quite popular in Europe and Asia. The nuts then further spread to the Americas and the rest of the world. All because of one reason – the nuts are incredibly nutritious.

The following section will give you a better idea of the nutritional profile.

What Is The Nutritional Profile Of Pine Nuts?

One serving of pine nuts (28 grams) contains 191 calories, 19 grams of fat, and 3.7 grams of carbohydrates. Other nutrients in pine nuts include:

• 1 gram of fiber (1% of the daily value)
• 169 milligrams of potassium (4% of the daily value)
• 9 grams of protein (7% of the daily value)
• 1 milligrams of thiamin (7% of the daily value)
• 6 milligrams of iron (8% of the daily value)
• 7 milligrams of vitamin E (9% of the daily value)
• 8 milligrams of zinc (12% of the daily value)
• 163 milligrams of phosphorus (16% of the daily value)
• 71 milligrams of magnesium (18% of the daily value)
• 3 micrograms of vitamin K (19% of the daily value)

*United States Department of Agriculture, pine nuts (1)

Pine nuts contain several other vital nutrients, and all of them have one common goal – which is to offer us the best health benefits.

What Are The Health Benefits Of Pine Nuts?

Pine nuts work great in suppressing appetite and aiding weight loss, thanks to their fatty acid content. The great combination of nutrients in pine nuts boosts energy, while other important minerals like magnesium and protein help prevent heart attacks and diabetes. The other antioxidants in these seeds are good for pregnancy and boost immunity, vision, skin, and hair health.

1. Suppress Your Appetite

Research shows that pine nuts contain certain fatty acids that might help curb appetite (2). These fatty acids in pine nuts (especially Korean pine nuts) help release a hormone called cholecystokinin (CCK), which is known to suppress appetite (3). When the study was done on people, it revealed encouraging results.

Another study found that pine nuts can boost the functioning of appetite suppressants by up to 60 percent for as long as 4 hours (4).

The important fatty acid in Korean pine nut oil is pinolenic acid, which studies say is a promising satiety ingredient (5).

2. Boost Energy

Certain specific nutrients in pine nuts, like monounsaturated fat, iron, and protein, can help boost energy levels (6), (7). They also are a great source of magnesium. When magnesium is at low levels in the body, it can cause fatigue (8).

Pine nuts also help build and repair tissues in the body that might otherwise lead to fatigue. The protein in the nuts also helps. This nutrient, which is a complex molecule, takes longer to break down in the body – offering a steady and long-lasting supply of energy without causing a burnout (9).

3. Reduce The Risk Of Heart Disease

Nuts, in general, are always considered good for the heart. Studies have shown that nut consumption can cut the risk of sudden death by heart attack (10). Monounsaturated fats, vitamins E and K, magnesium, and manganese form a synergistic blend to prevent cardiovascular disease.

The pinolenic acid in pine nuts supports healthy cholesterol and even helps lower the levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) (11). The vitamin K in these seeds helps to form blood clots to prevent bleeding after injury while the vitamin E helps produce red blood cells important for oxygen transport. Consuming tree nuts (like pine nuts) has also been associated with lower blood pressure levels.

4. Benefits Diabetics

According to research, eating pine nuts every day can help control type 2 diabetes (12). The seeds also prevent related complications like vision issues and stroke. Type 2 diabetes patients who had pine nuts every day showed improved glucose control and reduction in bad cholesterol levels.

More interestingly, pine nuts (and other tree nuts) have benefits for both glucose control and blood lipids. They can also be used to increase the intake of vegetable oils and protein in type 2 diabetes patients. This is important since these two components are vital to improve the symptoms of the disease without leading to weight gain (13).

5. Enhance Brain Health

We already saw pine nuts are rich in iron, which is a mineral required for storing and transporting oxygen. However, iron is also important for brain health too (14).

Also, research shows that other nutrients in pine nuts, like magnesium, can help treat anxiety, depression, and stress. One study proved that dietary intake of magnesium could help improve the condition of adolescents with depression and anxiety disorders. Higher levels of magnesium can lead to lesser emotional outbursts and other behaviors associated with mood disorders (15).

6. Cut Cancer Risk

The cancer health benefits of pine nuts can be attributed to their magnesium content. This mineral has been linked to a lower risk of various types of cancer. One study shows that a decrease in serum magnesium by 100 milligrams per day can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer risk by 24 percent (16). Therefore, increasing your blood magnesium levels may help to lower such risk.

7. Strengthen Bones

Calcium is well-known for its bone health benefits. Did you know, though, that vitamin K can help bones too? One study talks about how this vitamin can help in the treatment and prevention of osteoporosisⁱ  XA condition that causes low bone density, which leads to weak bones that are prone to frequent fractures. (17). It not only increases bone mineral density but also reduces fracture rates (18).

And here’s something quite interesting. One very common reason for the deficiency of vitamin K is the intake of cholesterol-lowering pharmaceuticals. But when you take pine nuts, you may not need any cholesterol-lowering medication since the nuts have cholesterol-lowering potential, not to mention that they provide a rich source of vitamin K (19).

8. Aid Weight Management

This is where we talk about appetite suppression again. We already saw how the pinolenic acid in pine nuts could help suppress appetite. This appetite suppression can aid in weight loss.

The other heart-healthy fatty acids in pine nuts also help burn belly fat. One study states that replacing saturated fats in the diet with pine nuts (and nuts, in general) can help you lose weight without making any additional changes to calorie intake or exercise duration (20).

9. Boost Immunity

The manganese and zinc in pine nuts can do a great job at boosting immune health (21). While the former helps maintain the body’s hormonal balance and strength of connective tissue, the latter boosts immunity and aids wound healing.

As per one report, additional zinc in the diet can help boost the immune system in older adults (22). Zinc is associated with an improvement in the function and number of T-cells, which are a type of white blood cells that destroy invading pathogens.

10. Improve Vision Health

Pine nuts contain a lot of lutein, which is an antioxidant also known as the eye vitamin. Several surveys have revealed that most Americans taking the Standard American Diet don’t consume adequate amounts of lutein.

There are about 600 carotenoids your body can utilize, of which only about 20 are transported to your eyes. Of these, only two are deposited in your eyes in large amounts. One is lutein, and the other is zeaxanthin. Both these nutrients help prevent macular degenerationⁱ  XAn eye disorder that causes loss of vision in the retina, especially at its center (macula). It is common in old age. and glaucomaⁱ  XA group of eye diseases caused due to damage to the optic nerve and high pressure in the eye that may lead to vision loss. by fighting free radical damage.

11. Enhance Skin And Hair Health

High concentrations of various essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants make pine nuts amazingly helpful for skin care. Vitamin E and antioxidants work to hold back the aging process (23). And thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, pine nut oil is very suitable for sensitive skin types. It nourishes the skin and protects it from various common conditions. Moreover, it also has great moisturizing effects on the skin.

Pine nut oil is well known for massage therapy because of its healing property. It helps to reduce a number of skin issues like itching, psoriasisⁱ  XAn autoimmune disease that causes inflammation, itchy rashes and scales on the skin, most commonly on the scalp, knees, and elbows. , pimples, eczema, scabiesⁱ  XA highly contagious skin infection caused by severely itchy tiny mites that burrow into the skin. , and sores. This nut oil gives the skin a revitalized and fresh look.

A body scrub created with raw pine nuts and coconut oil revives the skin by sloughing off dead skin cells. Moreover, due to its excellent hydrating and moisturizing properties, it is a recognized remedy for relieving dehydrated skin.

Pine nuts are a rich source of vitamin E, a vitamin known for boosting hair growth. Moreover, it also keeps the scalp in good condition. People suffering from hair loss or hair thinning have found pine nut oil to be extremely helpful in combating the condition.

These edible nuts contain a high concentration of proteins. The protein content in the nuts protects the hair against damage and keeps it strong, healthy, and lustrous.

These are the health benefits of pine nuts. But now, we have an important question to address.

Are Pine Nuts Good During Pregnancy?

Very much. Because they are highly nutritious, which is the kind of stuff pregnant women must be taking in.

Pine nuts are high in fiber, and this can help ease constipation, which is one common issue during pregnancy. And the iron and proteins are particularly beneficial, especially if the mother is a vegetarian. Iron and proteins play a vital role in the health of both the mother and the baby.

Pine nuts contain vitamin C too (though not so much), which helps in the efficient absorption of iron. However, keep in mind that taking pine nuts in their natural form is always the best option.

That settles it, right? And if you are wondering how to pick the right pine nuts and how to store them, keep reading.

How To Select And Store Pine Nuts

Selection

• While buying pine nuts from the market, always rummage for the bright brown ones that have compact and uniform size. Try dropping the nuts from a little height. If they produce a good metallic sound, their quality is assured.
• The pine nuts you buy should be heavy and free of cracks.
• Never choose the pine nuts if they smell rancid.
• Shelled and processed kernels are also available in the market in airtight plastic bags. While paying for these, always try to buy them from an authentic source to ensure optimum freshness.

Storage

As mentioned earlier, pine nuts are available in the market in both shelled and unshelled forms.

Unshelled nuts have a relatively longer shelf life than the shelled ones. They can be stored for almost three to four months.

The shelled nuts are not good candidates for long-term storage. They get damaged easily, especially if stored in a hot, humid place. Therefore, it’s best to store them in a cool and dry place.

Oh, wait. There’s more. If you want to know the different ways you can prepare and cook with pine nuts, this is it.

Any Tips For Incorporating Pine Nuts Into Your Diet?

Pine nuts can be used for culinary purposes in more than one way. Here are some ideas to incorporate these healthy and tasteful nuts in your regular recipes and diverse cuisines:

• Crunchy Addition

These seeds can be a crunchy addition to chocolate, cookies, biscuits, granolas, slices, and cakes. Moreover, they can be added to wholemeal breads, home-baked pizzas, other snacks, and several desserts like sundaes and ice-cream-based recipes.

• Dressings On Bars And Smoothies

You can also use roasted pine nuts as salad dressing or add to protein bars and fruit smoothies.

• Nutritious Coating On Various Tasty Dishes

Incorporate pine nuts in meat, fish, and various vegetable dishes. They provide a scrumptious and highly nutritious coating for chicken, fish, and tofu, which can be baked, deep-fried or pan-fried and also as an addend in pesto sauce.

Did You Know?

New Mexico and other parts in the Southwest United States enjoy pine nut coffee, a dark roast with a nutty and deep flavor.

Any Tips On Preparation And Cooking?

• If you are cooking for guests, let them know you are cooking with pine nuts. Most people who are allergic to nuts are allergic to pine nuts as well.
• Toasting pine nuts brings out the best flavor.
• Blanched and slivered almonds are an excellent substitute for pine nuts in several recipes.
• Remember that Chinese varieties of pine nuts have a stronger flavor than the milder Mediterranean and Italian varieties.

There are other ways you can use pine nuts in your cooking, such as the following recipes.

Any Delicious Pine Nut Recipes?

1. Avocado And Spinach Salad With Pine Nuts

What You Need

• 1 bag of washed and dried baby spinach
• 1 sliced avocado
• ¼ cup of toasted pine nuts
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, as required

Directions

1. Whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Toss all the ingredients in a bowl.
3. Serve.

2. Salty-Sweet Pine Nut Bars

What You Need

• 7 ounces of cake flour
• ½ cup of powdered sugar
• ¼ cup of cornstarch
• 5/8 teaspoons of salt, divided
• 3 ounces of fat-free cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• Cooking spray
• ¾ cup of maple syrup
• 1/3 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup of pine nuts

Directions

1. Firstly, heat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Lightly spoon the flour into a dry measuring cup. Combine the flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, 1/8 teaspoon of salt, and whisk.
3. Cut in the cream cheese and butter with a pastry blender until the mixture resembles a coarse meal. Transfer the mixture to a 9-inch square metal baking pan coated with cooking spray. Pat the mixture evenly into the pan. Bake at 400^o F for about 20 minutes or until it is lightly browned.
4. Reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Combine the maple syrup, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Keep stirring the ingredients with a whisk. Stir in the pine nuts. Pour the syrup mixture over the crust, spreading the nuts evenly on the top. Sprinkle on the remaining salt.
6. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 minutes. Let it cool.
7. Cut into squares and serve.

The recipes are sure to taste great. But hey, how about checking out some fun facts?

Any Fast Facts On Pine Nuts?

• Though most pine nuts take about 18 months to mature, some take as long as three years.
• Pines reproduce through cones, which are conically shaped structures containing male and female sex organs.
• The seeds have wings and can get dispersed by wind.
• European pine nuts can be considered a luxury product. They can cost as much as €100 (or about $114) per kg.
• Chinese pine nuts have a bitter aftertaste, whereas those from Pakistan are sweeter.

In case you were thinking where you can pick your next pack of pine nuts from…

Where To Buy Pine Nuts

You can pick a pack of pine nuts from your nearest supermarket store or get them online.

Any Side Effects Of Pine Nuts?

• Nut Allergies

People who are allergic to nuts might also develop allergies to pine nuts.

• Issues With Pregnancy And Breastfeeding

Yes, we spoke of how good these seeds can be during pregnancy. But only consume in moderation. However, when it comes to breastfeeding, less information is available. Consult your doctor before consuming.

• Concerns With Supplements

Certain supplements made of oil (especially Siberian pine nut oil) might aggravate conditions in people suffering from seizures. Consult your doctor in this regard.

A blogger shared his experience about pine mouth or pine nut syndrome after consuming some Chinese pine nuts. He said, “Bought some Pine Nuts at our local Kroger grocery store. A few days later I noticed an odd metallic taste in the back of my mouth. Drank a glass of red wine at dinner one night and it tasted like vinegar (i).”

Pine nuts can strengthen your bones and aid in weight loss. But are they better than peanuts? Find out in the next section.

Pine Nuts Vs. Peanuts.

Pine nuts offer a distinct buttery and mild flavor, making them a favorite in Mediterranean and Italian dishes. They are often used to add richness to pesto sauces and used as a common salad topping.

On the other hand, peanuts are a type of legume with a robust, earthy flavor. They are a key ingredient in Asian and African cuisines and popularly consumed as peanut butter and roasted snacks among others.

Pine nuts are higher in healthy fats and a good source of vitamins and minerals (1), whereas peanuts have a higher protein and calcium content (24).

You can incorporate either or both nuts based on your preferences and the dishes you prepare.

Infographic: Varieties Of Pine Nuts

Pine nuts are loaded with rich nutrients and can be eaten raw or roasted. They contain antioxidants and a wide variety of vitamins and minerals that help treat many ailments. From suppressing your appetite to enhancing hair and skin health, pine nut’s benefits are wide ranging. In addition, they are available in many different varieties. Check out the infographic below to learn about the types of pine nuts.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pine mouth syndrome?

Pine nuts can often cause a mysterious metallic taste 12 to 48 hours post consumption. This is called the pine mouth syndrome. The syndrome, however, improves over time without any serious side effects.

Why are pine nuts so expensive?

Because they are usually harvested using the hands. They are seeds produced by cones, and gathering those seeds takes time and labor.

Where do pine nuts come from?

As we saw, from the cones of a pine tree.

Are all pine nuts edible?

Yes, though the quality of the seeds depends on the species of the pine tree.

How many pine nuts can I eat in a day?

About 15 to 20 pine nuts (about 30 grams) is fine in a day.

Can pine nuts be included in a Paleo diet?

Yes, as a Paleo diet includes eating nuts and seeds, you can include these in your diet.

Is pine nut good for sperm?

No. An animal study revealed that pine nuts might reduce sperm motility and count. The phytosterol found in pine nuts can lower male fertility factors (25). However, further human studies are required to substantiate the findings.

Which is healthier: pine nuts or cashews?

Pine nuts and cashews are both healthy foods. However, cashews contain more nutrients like proteins, calcium, iron, and zinc than pine nuts (26) (27).

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

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Staci GulbinMS, MEd, RD, LDN

   

Staci Gulbin is a registered dietitian, freelance writer, health editor, and founder of LighttrackNutrition.com. She has been a registered dietitian with the Commission on Dietetic Registration since 2010 and has over a decade of experience in the nutrition and dietetics industry. Staci has also been applying her health and wellness knowledge to writing and editing for websites, such as CDiabetes,...more

Ravi Teja TadimallaSenior Editor

 

Ravi Teja Tadimalla is a senior editor and a published author. He has been in the digital media field for over eight years. He graduated from SRM University, Chennai, and has a Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition & Research from Wageningen University. He has written over 300 articles about ingredients and their benefits for the skin, hair, and health. He...more

Arshiya SyedaSenior Editor

Arshiya Syeda is a senior editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer and combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care. She holds a bachelor's degree in literature and psychology from Osmania University, Hyderabad, and a post-graduate diploma in psychological...more

Sindhu KogantiSenior Health & Wellness Writer

Sindhu Koganti is a Certified Health and Nutrition Life Coach and has over 6 years of experience in writing on health and wellness topics. She has a bachelor’s degree in biotechnology from Acharya Nagarjuna University, Guntur, and a diploma in nutrition from Fab Academy. After her graduation, she decided to combine her knowledge of science and love for writing to...more