Snacks can be a fantastic way to increase your intake of vital vitamins and support the changes you want to see in your body. However, one snack stands out for its ability to support thyroid function: Brazil nuts.

Ranked 16th on Healthline’s list of “50 Super Healthy Foods,” Brazil nuts are described as “nutrient-rich with a smooth, buttery texture.”

These nuts are an excellent source of selenium, a crucial trace mineral that supports thyroid function and helps maintain metabolism by aiding in thyroid hormone production. Just one to two Brazil nuts a day can meet your daily selenium requirements.

Beyond selenium, these nuts are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which help reduce inflammation and combat chronic conditions like arthritis and diabetes. The benefits don’t stop there!

Brazil nuts also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which improve skin elasticity, contributing to healthier, more youthful skin, reports Gloucestershire Live.

a woman eating Brazil nuts in a park
Brazil nuts contain selenium (Image: Alamy/PA)

Adding Brazil nuts to your diet is a simple yet powerful way to enhance overall health. Eating nuts can also play a role in combating the effects of aging.

Health expert Dr. Michael Mosley has shared that nuts are his go-to snack. Speaking to The Sunday Times about his daily diet, he said: “I make a point of always keeping a variety of nuts and seeds in stock, including almonds, cashews, Brazil nuts, walnuts, sunflower seeds, pine nuts, chia, and sesame seeds. Nuts are rich in fiber to feed your microbiome and are an excellent source of healthy natural fat.”

Looking to boost your heart health with some nutritious nibbles?

Dr. Kevin Rabii, DO, FACC, a cardiologist at Memorial Hermann, has shared his go-to snack with Parade, emphasising the impact of diet on heart disease risk. Dr. Rabii’s top pick for a heart-friendly treat is almonds: “I enjoy almonds because they are an easy, healthy, and delicious snack. I keep a small container of almonds in my car or at work for when I’m hungry. There’s no preparation needed, and it helps prevent me from opting for less healthy snacks.”