Remarkably, nuts not only taste great, but they’re loaded with protein, fiber, essential fats, antioxidants and minerals, which also makes them great for you. The FDA has mentioned that eating additional servings of certain nuts may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. It turns out that just a handful of nuts a day keeps the doctor away. A 30-year Harvard study tracking 119,000 men and women found that those who ate nuts nearly every day lowered their mortality risk by 20% compared to those who never ate nuts. Researchers suggest that nuts may promote longevity because they’re packed with healthy fat, protein, vitamins and antioxidants.

If you’re watching your weight, nuts is a smart choice. Some people mistakenly think the high fat content in nuts can make you gain weight, but they’re actually a slimming snack. A 2007 study found that frequent nut consumption was associated with a reduced risk of weight gain. Nuts fill you up so you’ll be less likely to reach for unhealthy foods.