Are nuts high in calories?

Toby Smithson on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Nutrition & Dietetics

Nuts can be high in calories because the main nutrient is fat which has a higher rate of calories per gram than carbohydrate or protein. To correctly answer the question if nuts are high in calories will depend on your portion intake. One serving (one ounce) of nuts can range in calories from 60 calories for 10 peanuts to 200 calories for 19 pecan halves. To include nuts in your current diet, try and replace a higher saturated fat protein or snack food with nuts.

Vandana R. Sheth on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Nutrition & Dietetics

Yes, nuts are high in calories. They contain heart-healthy fats but the fat content makes them high in calories. Enjoy them in moderation.

Janis Jibrin, MS, RD on behalf of The Best Life

Nutrition & Dietetics

Nuts weigh in at about 150 to 200 calories per ounce. Yes, that's high, but we recommend only about 1 to 2 ounces daily. In fact, people who eat nuts are thinner than those who don't. "One reason is that nuts are very filling. Studies show that after eating nuts, people compensate for about 65 to 75 percent of their energy by eating less of other foods," says Richard D. Mattes, MPH, PhD, RD, professor of foods and nutrition at Purdue University.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

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A healthy diet is rich in foods with high nutritional value, providing your body with the vitamins, minerals and other food nutrients it needs to protect against disease and maintain a healthy weight. To identify healthy foods, it's important to read nutrition labels and know the source of your food. Products advertised as whole-grain, organic or fortified may not necessarily be healthy for you. Find out how to get the most health value from various fruits, nuts, spices, oils and vegetables -- and learn which types of red meat and processed foods to avoid -- with expert advice from Sharecare.

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