As a Dietitian, it’s no surprise that I love a good serving of healthy fats. And, it’s pretty normal to see me with a variety of nuts, seeds, and nut butter in my grocery basket. Why? Because I know these healthy fats are powerful at keeping me full, my hormones happy, and my energy in check! A favorite go-to for quality and nutrient-dense nut butters is Artisana Organics. Artisana asked me five questions about their nut butters and why I like to include them in my, and my patient’s, diet on a regular basis. Learn more, below!
Q & A with Whitness Nutrition and Artisana Organics
AO: We love how much you value our nut and seed butters! Can you tell us why you choose to align with Artisana Organics products?
As a dietitian and diabetes educator it is so pertinent that:
- First that I eat in a way that inspires my patients. I try to “walk the talk” with my diet and utilize nutrient dense foods on a regular basis. One of my favorite topics is to normalize the use of healthy fats and provide a good example of a varied, nutrient-dense, diet!
- Second, I want to model a balanced diet that includes all food groups. For example, I often see individuals trying to cut out all their carbohydrates, or all of their fats. I know, from both experience and expertise, that a super restrictive diet without a well-rounded balanced of nutrients only sets one up for long-term failure. Not to mention a poor relationship with food and metabolic damage.
- Lastly, I show how easy it is to swap out ultra-processed and inflammatory foods with nutritious (delicious!) upgrades. My biggest pet peeve is the faux “healthy” nut butters on the market full of palm oil and sugar. Instead, I like organic nut butters without additives, fillers and sugar! Artisana Organics checks all those boxes;
- made with simple nourishing ingredients.
- have zero added oil or sugars
- contain zero additives or preservatives.
- made from organic and raw nuts which have a greater amount of nutrients and enzymes.
AO: We just came out with a new spread! A revised version, our Macadamia Nut Butter with Cashews takes the place of our old mac-coconut butter. We really like it. How have you been enjoying this new flavor?
You could absolutely just eat this nut butter off of a spoon, but a few other favorite ways:
- Oh my goodness, you have to try this creamy nut butter on top of protein pancakes. I am obsessed with the lightly sweet flavor on something warm and toasty. Equally good if you make this recipe as waffles. My 11 month and old I love to add some cinnamon and a sprinkle of chia seeds!
- Spread on a Queen Street Bakery toasted bagel with an egg on top; it’s the perfect mix of sweet, savory, salty and crunchy all in one. Plus, you get your fat, fiber and protein in the mix.
AO: There is a lot of misinformation about macadamia nuts being unhealthy fats. Can you share more about this and explain the positive benefits of macadamia oil in one’s diet?
Macadamia nuts are rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which is also found in olive oil. These healthy fats are considered heart-healthy and may help improve cholesterol levels. When consumed in moderation, monounsaturated fats have also shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. And, unlike many other nuts, macadamia nuts are low in omega-6 fatty acids. While omega-6 fatty acids are essential for health, most Americans have an imbalance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. The standard diet is much high in omega-6’s due to the consumption of convenience and fast foods. This imbalance in the diet has been linked to inflammation and various chronic diseases.
We need to stop fearing all saturated fats! Saturated fat, like that found in nuts, is a crucial component of cell membranes. They help to maintain cell integrity and structure. And, it is a precursor for the synthesis of certain hormones in the body, including testosterone, estrogen, and cortisol. Incorporating a few daily servings of nut butter into your diet in a great way to naturally support hormone health and your fertility!
AO: What about cashews? Can you share more from a R.D perspective the value of ingesting cashews and macadamia nuts?
Certainly! We have to stop fearing fat! Fat doesn’t make us fat; it’s actually quite the opposite! Cashews are actually abundant in monounsaturated fats which may help lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol while simultaneously increasing HDL (good) cholesterol, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease!
Cashews are a powerful tool for blood sugar! They have a relatively low glycemic index, meaning they cause a gradual and steady increase in blood sugar levels. This makes them a suitable snack option for individuals aiming to manage blood sugar levels, particularly those with diabetes or insulin resistance. I recommend that patients consume cashew butter on celery or carrots as a sweet and savory snack. This combo is stellar at balancing blood sugar and providing stable midday energy.
And, cashews are good for the brain! The healthy fats found in cashews, including omega-3 fatty acids and oleic acid, are essential for optimal brain health. These fats support cognitive function, memory, and mood regulation.
AO: What is one favorite way you like to use our new macadamia nut butter?
If you haven’t tried this inside of a date with a sprinkle of sea salt, you are missing out on a delicious experience! I used this combo during my third trimester but stuffed dates are good all the time! I’ll eat one an hour before an endurance workout as sustained fuel.
Learn more about Artisana Organics here and don’t forget to try their newest Macadamia nut butter with code Whitness10 for 10% off Artisana Market. And, if you’re looking for more balanced snack options, peruse my recommendations on this blog post for Dietitian recommended snacks.
