10 Highest Calorie Nuts for Weight Gain
Nuts are not only delicious snacks, but they are also packed with calories and essential nutrients that are beneficial for our health. They are rich in healthy fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making them a beneficial choice to add to your diet.
This is especially true for individuals seeking calorie-dense foods to support an active lifestyle, muscle growth or weight gain.
In this guide, we will focus on the calorie density of nuts and highlight the top 10 nuts with the highest calorie content per 100 grams.
Understanding Calorie Density in Nuts
Calorie density refers to the number of calories present in a specific weight of food, measured here per 100 grams. In nuts, this measure is particularly important as it directly correlates with energy content, making certain nuts more suitable for high-calorie diets.
High-calorie nuts are an excellent source of sustained energy, essential fatty acids, and other nutrients, making them invaluable for anyone looking to increase their caloric intake.
10 Highest Calorie Nuts
1) Macadamia Nuts
Calories per 100 grams: 718
These luxurious nuts are the highest-calorie nuts and a rich source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Macadamias are prized for their buttery flavor, making them an exquisite addition to baked goods and a decadent snack on their own. Their high fat content makes them ideal for a high-calorie diet.
2) Pecans
Calories per 100 grams: 691
Pecans boast a sweet, buttery flavor and are packed with antioxidants. They’re versatile in the kitchen, enhancing both sweet and savory dishes, from pies to salads. Their high calorie and nutrient density make them another excellent for weight gain diets.
3) Pine Nuts
Calories per 100 grams: 673
Pine nuts are an important ingredient for making traditional pesto. They have a subtle, sweet flavor that can add a nutritional punch to your meals.
Pine nuts are a good source of protein and magnesium, which makes them perfect for athletes and those with active lifestyles. You can sprinkle them over salads or pasta to add some texture and flavor to your dishes.
4) Brazil Nuts
Calories per 100 grams: 659
Just a handful of Brazil nuts can provide more than 100% of the daily value for selenium, supporting thyroid health. Their creamy texture and high calorie content make them a satisfying snack that can be enjoyed raw or added to trail mixes.
5) Walnuts
Calories per 100 grams: 654
Walnuts are known for their omega-3 fatty acids and support brain and heart health. They have an earthy flavor and are a great addition to oatmeal, yogurt, and baked goods.
6) Hazelnuts
Calories per 100 grams: 646
Hazelnuts are a great source of vitamin E and folate, which can contribute to healthy skin and a healthy heart. They are often used in confectioneries and spreads such as Nutella and can add a rich, nutty flavor to coffee and desserts.
7) Almonds
Calories per 100 grams: 579
Almonds are highly nutritious, offering protein, fiber, vitamin E, and magnesium. They’re a staple in snacks, almond flour and almond flour, making them incredibly versatile for various dietary preferences, including gluten-free and vegan.
8) Peanuts
Calories per 100 grams: 567
Highly accessible and affordable, peanuts are a popular choice worldwide, used in numerous high-calorie recipes, from peanut butter and weight gain smoothies to energy bars. Their rich flavor enhances both sweet and savory dishes, providing a significant protein and nutrient boost.
9) Pistachios
Calories per 100 grams: 557
Pistachios are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, including protein, potassium, and vitamin B6. They can be eaten on their own, added to dishes for a pop of color and flavor, or used in pistachio butter, offering a unique twist on traditional nut spreads.
10) Cashews
Calories per 100 grams: 553
Cashews are known for their creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a favorite in vegan recipes as a dairy substitute. They’re rich in iron, magnesium, and zinc, and can be enjoyed roasted, in stir-fries, or as cashew cheese, contributing to both caloric and nutritional needs.
Conclusion
Incorporating these high-calorie nuts into your diet is a delicious and efficient way to enhance your nutritional intake and ensure you’re getting the energy you need. Each nut brings its unique set of benefits, from heart health to antioxidant properties, making them much more than just a calorie source. Whether added to meals, enjoyed as snacks, or blended into a weight gain smoothie, these nuts offer a blend of flavor and nutrition to add to your diet.
