Transcript for:
Nut Choices for Seniors

They told you that nuts are good for you. But here's the startling reality that nobody wants to discuss aloud. Some of the most common nuts in your kitchen may be gradually impairing your erections after the age of 60, as well as increasing blood pressure, impairing memory, and subtly harming your kidneys. What's worse, the majority of seniors believe they are benefiting their bodies by eating them daily. My name is Doctor Senior Man. I've been helping older men and women recover their vitality, energy, and clarity in the bedroom for more than 30 years. And time and time again, I've witnessed how the correct foods can bring life back while the incorrect ones steal it stealthily. What if I told you that there are four particular nuts that improve blood sugar balance, enhance brain function, promote circulation, and even improve sleep quality, but hardly nobody over 60 usually eats them. Meanwhile, there are four more that are promoted as healthy, but are actually endangering your heart, producing inflammation, and interfering with your medicine. You have a right to understand the distinction. I'll take you through each of the eight in this video, the four you should never eat again, and the four you have to pick each day. Simple, grounded in science, and customized for your post 60 body. And I'll reveal one nut in particular at the conclusion. The most harmful of all, it has been connected to liver damage and even memory loss, and it may be in your pantry at the moment. Make sure to click the subscribe button and activate the notification bell before we begin so you don't miss any more health lessons created just for elders like you. Additionally, put one in the comments if this message resonates with you. Type zero if it doesn't and tell me how I can improve your health and wellbeing. Okay, so let's start with the four nutritious nuts you should consume daily. They are more than simply munchies. They are all natural remedies for your heart, brain, energy, and yes, even sexual performance. Let's examine each one in more detail and see why around age 60, they become even more significant. One, Brazil nuts, your testosterone and thyroid booster. I can vividly recall a retired firefighter in his late 60s who was one of my patients. He should be called Jack. He was worn out, mentally hazy, and annoyed by his lack of enthusiasm and slow performance when he came to me. He had tried diets, medications, and powders, but nothing seemed to bring back the spark he had before. I wasn't surprised by the results of our comprehensive lab panel. Jack had a serious deficiency in selenium, a trace mineral that is extremely important to our emotions, thoughts, and bodily functions, but that most men over 60 don't even consider. This is when things start to get interesting. I gave Jack a straightforward task. Consume one Brazil nut daily, only one. No intricate plans, no medications. He was back in my office 3 weeks later. He had a new face. He leaned in smiling and said, "Doctor, I don't know what's in that nut, but I feel alive again." His eyes were sharper and he had more color. That is Brazil nut strength. The world's most abundant natural source of selenium is this amazing nut. A single nut supplies more than 130% of your daily needs. Additionally, the selenium in Brazil nuts is bonded to organic molecules, which makes it easier for your aging body to absorb and use than manufactured pills. Thyroid hormones, which control everything from your mood and memory to your metabolism and energy levels, need on selenium to function. Thyroid function tends to slow down as we age, which can cause weight gain, cold hands, exhaustion, and a loss of that youthful energy. But from the inside out, selenium supports that function. There's more. Most men are unaware that selenium is necessary for the creation of testosterone. Not only can low testosterone impact libido, but it also has an impact on strength, sleep, motivation, and even cerebral clarity. Brazil nuts subtly help your body safely and healthily create and manage this important hormone. However, this nut's ability to shield your nerves is what actually sets it apart. The myelin sheath, the covering that surrounds your nerves and makes your reflexes quick and your movements fluid is maintained by the fats in Brazil nuts. We think and move more slowly without it. And we lose touch with the body we used to know so well. One of the most crucial things you can do as you age is to keep your myelin intact. And Brazil nuts directly help that. I now warn my patients all the time, more is not preferable. Over time, too much selenium can be harmful. For this reason, I advise consuming no more than one or two Brazil nuts daily. Chew them well and store them in the fridge, preferably in their shell. A tiny ritual that yields a huge return on investment. You don't require a pill bottle. All you need is the discipline to apply nature's wisdom as Jack did. If a single nut can protect your nerves, boost your testosterone, AE, and activate your thyroid, just think of what will happen when you incorporate the next nut into your daily routine. I refer to it as the silent protector of your brain and bones. Even still, the majority of seniors are unaware of what they are missing. Now, let's discuss it. Two, almonds, the bone and brain defender. Almonds have a very reassuring quality. Perhaps it's the gentle sweetness that lingers after every bite, or their well-known crunch. Almonds make me think of my dad. He always sat by the window in the morning with a tiny bowl of raw almonds and a cup of warm tea. He didn't skip a day. These little things are keeping me sharp, son. He used to say, "I didn't completely comprehend the science at the time, but now that I've studied aging and medicine for decades, I know he was spot on. One of the most underappreciated but effective allies for elder health is almonds. Not just a nibble, they are. They serve as a daily defense mechanism for your brain and bones, two of the most susceptible areas of your aging body. First, let's talk about your bones. Your bone density starts to significantly decrease after the age of 60, especially after the age of 65. Fractures take longer to heal, falls become more risky, and even minor mishaps can require months of recuperation. A/4 cup of almonds contains almost 100 mg of calcium. However, their magnesium is what distinguishes them. Magnesium functions similarly to a traffic regulator. Instead of allowing calcium to clog your arteries, it helps transport it into your bones where it belongs. Almonds include both calcium and magnesium, which is uncommon in a single food. Let's now discuss your brain. I encounter more patients each year who are afraid of memory loss than heart disease, and with good reason. Dementia, Alzheimer's, and brain fog do more than simply take away your thoughts. They steal your freedom. Almonds, however, are a great source of antioxidants, particularly when eaten skin on. Together with vitamin E, the flavonoids in that thin brown skin help counteract the oxidative stress that ages our brain cells. Indeed, regular consumption of almonds may even delay the rate of cognitive deterioration, according to research from Tus University. There's more. With about 3.5 g of fiber per serving, almonds are a great way to fight constipation. A daily challenge that almost half of seniors silently endure. Although it may not sound glamorous, I can assure you that regularity has a profound impact on your emotional state. Digestion affects more than most people know. From your energy to your emotions, 15 to 20 almonds a day is what I usually advise. Always chewed well, unsalted, and either raw or dry roasted. This step is crucial, particularly for elderly people who have swallowing or dental problems. Go slowly. Develop the habit of mindfulness. You're not just eating a nut, I tell my patients. Your future mobility, clarity, and dignity are being invested in. Your silent guardians are almonds. Additionally, your body starts to notice once you incorporate them into your everyday routine. Better days, sharper thoughts, and stronger steps. However, what if I told you that there is a nut that resembles your brain and that it may be the best natural meal available for enhancing blood flow, avoiding memory loss, and even promoting sound sleep. That's precisely what's going to happen next. Let's discuss it. Three, walnuts, the preferred food of the brain. I will always remember that particular moment. Harold, a 70-year-old retired music teacher who had just lost his wife, was a patient I saw years ago. He was having trouble remembering as well as grieving. He would lose his keys, forget names, and sometimes become disoriented when driving home. He took out a tiny glass jar from his kitchen cabinet while we were there. There were walnuts within. "I read somewhere that they're good for the brain, and they look like a brain, too," he remarked, glancing at me. That stayed with me. Not only because it was accurate, but also because Harold was attempting to defend himself in his calm, resolute manner, and he is supported by the science. Walnuts are unique. They are not merely a snack. They are among the most powerful meals found in nature that nourish the brain. Yes, they are structurally similar to the brain. However, they have a deeper chemical effect. Alpha linolenic acid or ALA is a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid that is abundant in walnuts and aids in the development and maintenance of brain cell membranes. These membranes become less flexible as we age. Memory gets hazy and neuronal communication slows down but ALA maintains the strength of these connections and that's only the start. Polyphenols, which are strong antioxidants that penetrate the bloodb brain barrier and immediately lower inflammation in neural tissue, are abundant in walnuts. Why is that important? For inflammation is a quiet murderer of cognition, memory, and focus. It is one of the main causes of Alzheimer's and dementia. Additionally, walnuts address the root cause of inflammation in contrast to many other foods. Seniors who consumed just 1.5 ounces of walnuts daily for 8 weeks shown quantifiable increases in mental flexibility and processing speed according to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition. These figures aren't arbitrary. That's the difference between remembering a birthday, noticing a loved one's joke, or continuing the discussion. However, the majority of individuals are unaware of this. Additionally, walnuts naturally contain melatonin, a hormone that your body uses to control sleep. Additionally, as we age, our melatonin levels decrease, which causes insomnia and a slower rate of recuperation. Just adding a modest handful of walnuts to their evening meal helps many of my elderly patients fall asleep more quickly and wake up feeling more rested. Typically, I advise consuming seven to nine walnut halves daily to preserve their fragile oils, which can deteriorate in the presence of heat or light. Keep them chilled. Additionally, don't be concerned by the skin's faint bitterness. Many of the antioxidants reside there. Consider each bite as a small dose of protection. Harold continues to consume his walnuts on a daily basis. Even while he still misses his wife a lot, he recently informed me that he feels like he has a somewhat stronger sense of self, a sharper memory, and better focus. Your life won't be changed by walnuts right away. However, over time, they subtly assist your mind, which is the most valuable possession you have. If walnuts are the brain's food, then the next nut is the unsung hero of your blood sugar, blood pressure, and vision simultaneously. Most people ignore it, but after you see what it is capable of, you will never look at it the same way. Let's discuss it. Fourth, blood pressure, vision, and diabetes. Defense pistachios. My grandfather kept this antique wooden dish on the kitchen counter when I was a child. He would take a handful of pistachios and crack them open one by one in his armchair every day. Back then, I didn't give it much attention. It was just an elderly man's peaceful habit. But today that we know so much about aging and nutrition, I see that he was acting very sensibly. Unaware of the science, he was safeguarding his eyesight, his blood pressure, and even his capacity to control his blood sugar. That bowl of pistachios was a daily dosage of protection, not just a snack. Without a doubt, one of the most underappreciated superfoods for seniors is pistachios. They are frequently eclipsed by more ostentatious options, but their functionality more than makes up for their lack of celebrity. First of all, with about 285 mg of potassium per serving, they are among the most potassium richch nuts available. Compared to many fruits and vegetables, that is more. Additionally, potassium is essential for sustaining normal blood pressure, particularly after the age of 60, when salt sensitivity and vascular stiffness tend to rise. Pistachios are a clever secure ally for senior citizens attempting to control their hypertension organically. Additionally, they are abundant in lutein and zakanthin, two potent carotenoids that are essential for eye health. Age related macular degeneration is slowed down by these substances which build up in the retina and aid in blocking harmful blue light. That's no little matter. One of the most dreaded illnesses among the elderly is vision loss. And pistachios offer mild, steady assistance to keep your environment vibrant and crisp. Most significantly though, pistachios provide unexpected benefits for controlling blood sugar. Their naturally low glycemic index and roughly 3 g of fiber per ounce assist to stabilize insulin levels, slow down digestion, and lessen postmeal sugar surges. A small daily addition of pistachios can have a significant impact on the millions of seniors who suffer from diabetes or pre-diabetes, particularly when they are substituted for more processed sugary snacks. It's also important to note the behavioral advantage here. The shelling process slows down your pace when eating pistachios in their shell. This makes it easier to prevent overeating since it gives your body more time to sense fullness. Additionally, the empty shells provide as a visual indicator, allowing you to monitor your intake without the need for measuring cups or calorie counting. It transforms munching into a peaceful, contemplative practice. I usually suggest 49 pistachios or about 1 oz each day. The best ones are unsalted or barely salted. And to make shelling simpler, if you have arthritis or weak hands, search for ones that are naturally halfopened. A unique combination is provided by pistachios. Taste, nutrient density, and medicinal value. Your heart, eyes, blood sugar, and sensation of control over your body are all supported by them. Here's the problem, though. There are additional nuts that can subtly destroy your health beyond 60. But these four can improve it. Nuts that appear harmless and even healthy can cause inflammation, increase blood pressure, interfere with medicine, and cause foggess in the brain. I'll tell you which nuts to stay away from and why they might be doing more harm than good in the next part since you deserve to know what they are. Remain with me. The shocking reality comes at this point. One, peanuts. The time bomb of inflammation. The day George entered my office will always be in my memory. A proud 72-year-old Vietnam veteran who took satisfaction in his active lifestyle. However, he claimed that something felt strange lately. Despite no significant changes to his lifestyle, he was constantly exhausted. His joints hurt more than usual, and his blood pressure had gradually increased. One item caught my attention as we discussed his daily routine. He ate peanuts as a snack nearly every day. I take it they're in good health, he inquired. That incident made me realize how much misunderstanding still surrounds foods we take for granted, particularly peanuts. In actuality, peanuts are not considered nuts. The fact that they are legumes and are grown underground makes all the difference. Peanuts are particularly vulnerable to mold and a toxin known as aphletoxin due to the manner they are grown. It is impossible to see or smell this mold. It is tasteless and invisible, but it can accumulate in the body over time, damaging the liver, impairing immunity, and even increasing the risk of some types of cancer. Senior citizens are particularly susceptible to these unseen dangers since their detoxification processes inherently deteriorate with age. However, that's not the only issue. Many people can experience inflammatory reactions from peanuts, even if they do not have an allergy. mild persistent inflammation that impacts the heart, joints, and sometimes the brain. Inflammation like that isn't noisy. It takes time to manifest. However, it builds up gradually and covertly, causing cardiovascular tension, mental haze, and flare-ups of arthritis. Most people are unaware that peanuts can exacerbate the stiffness and exhaustion that older folks already experience. The salt is another factor. The majority of commercial peanuts are roasted and occasionally overly salted. This additional sodium just makes the issue worse for seniors who are managing high blood pressure, which affects over 60% of persons over 65. A simple snack becomes a daily dosage of risk when you include the hydrogenated oils and sugars frequently included in commercial peanut butters. Not even natural peanut butter is exempt. Because peanuts contain a lot of omega6 fatty acids, they can upset your body's sensitive omega-3 to omega6 balance, which is important for reducing inflammation. In aging bodies, that imbalance alone can impair circulation, impair cognition, and reduce general resilience. And do you take blood thinners or other medications? Compounds in peanuts, particularly vitamin K, can obstruct absorption. For many seniors who are managing several prescriptions, this makes managing their medications even more difficult than it is currently. I'm not saying that everyone should freak out if they occasionally eat peanuts, but if you're over 60 and consume them frequently, you should give it some serious thought. The same delightful crunch can be found in safer, more supporting substitutes that don't have the same toxic and inflammatory hazards. What if I told you that in addition to raising blood sugar, the next nut on our list may also raise your risk of kidney stones, cause digestive problems, and even put elderly folks at risk for hazardous choking episodes. It's among the most surprisingly well-like treats available. Let's examine it more closely. Two, the kidney stone and blood sugar trap with cashews. A few years ago, I treated a lady named Linda. She was 70 years old, vivacious, funny, and enjoyed baking sweets for her grandchildren. We looked into her behaviors after she complained of exhaustion, stomach pain, and sudden blood sugar increases. To my astonishment, cashews appeared frequently in her meals, smoothies, and even the purportedly healthful granola bars she carried in her purse. "You know they're healthy?" her expression was hopeful as she asked. I was reminded of how quickly well-intentioned decisions can backfire as we age, which is why that moment stayed with me. Cashews can be challenging. They are frequently seen at health food stores and have a mild flavor and creamy texture, making them look like a nutritious snack. However, cashews have hidden dangers that most people, particularly the elderly, are not aware of. Let's start by discussing blood sugar. Cashews have a significant glycemic effect and a comparatively high carbohydrate load for a nut, roughly 9 g per ounce. This implies that they may result in a faster than anticipated elevation in your blood sugar. These small increases add up for the 48% of seniors who are deemed pre-diabetic and the 25% who have already been diagnosed with diabetes. Furthermore, the harm is frequently silent. You don't notice it until later when the effects manifest as exhaustion, foggess, or deteriorating blood sugar levels at your subsequent visit. Additionally, cashews are a great source of oxalates in your intestines. These naturally occurring substances bind with calcium, making it more difficult for your body to absorb this vital mineral. This becomes an issue for elderly persons who are already more susceptible to osteoporosis and calcium insufficiency. Even worse, oxalates can build up in the body and aid in kidney stone development, a painful ailment that worsens with age and becomes more hazardous. Many individuals are unaware of another concern, particularly for elderly adults who have swallowing issues. Smooth and curved, cashews are surprisingly easy to aspirate. Cashews are really one of the nuts that cause choking events the most out of all of them. What's that comfortingly creamy texture? It may also turn into a silent danger. Lastly, there is the processing problem. The majority of people are unaware that raw cashews are poisonous. The same substance that is present in poison ivy orol is present in them. They must undergo extensive processing, cooking, steaming, and stripping. To ensure their safety, but many of their natural nutrients are lost in the process. All that's left is a tasty nut that offers little to no health benefits and occasionally even causes harm. For this reason, I suggest senior swap cashews rather than cigaro for safer, more useful substitutes like almonds or walnuts. Three, macadamia nuts, the silent weight gainer. Carl, a retired engineer in his late60s, was a patient of mine. He is highly strict with his routines, has a sharp mind, and a fantastic sense of humor. However, over the course of several months, Carl started to gain weight slowly and quietly. He frequently felt lethargic after meals, and his blood pressure was gradually rising. "Well, doc, I don't eat much junk, but I do treat myself to a few macadamia nuts each night," he replied with a laugh when we sat down to go over his diet. I take it that they are hearthealthy. I realized then that we needed to speak. The macadamia nut is a luxury good. They seem decadent, like the ideal healthful treat thanks to their smooth texture and rich, buttery flavor. And that is how they are frequently sold, particularly in upscale health food circles. However, most people are unaware that macadamia contain a significant quantity of fat and calories in each mouthful, especially as we age. There are about 200 calories and 22 gram of fat in only 1 ounce or just a handful. That adds up quickly for someone over 60 whose metabolism has naturally slowed and who may already be less active. Even though you don't feel full, you're consuming the calories of a whole mini meal. I refer to that as quiet weight gain. It surprises you. Don't binge. No candy, just a gradual rise that gets difficult to stop. But weight isn't the only factor. At almost 3 gram per ounce, macadamia have one of the highest levels of saturated fat of any nut. That type of fat can increase low density lipoprotein, LDL, cholesterol, and put additional strain on an aging heart. Not only is this type of fat detrimental to seniors who are already dealing with blood pressure or cholesterol problems, it can stealthily reverse your gains. And then there's the gallbladder problem. Gallstones can develop in many elderly persons without them even realizing it. After meals, they may have occasional bloating or discomfort, but nothing particularly concerning. Because of its high fat content, macadamia nuts can cause these stones to shift, leading to excruciating episodes that may require surgery or emergency room visits. It has happened to me more than once. Frequently, the individual was unaware that the issue was developing within them. Not to be overlooked is oral health. The macadamia nut is firm and dense. Chewing might be dangerous for elderly people who have crowns, bridges, or sensitive teeth. I've seen folks break dental work on these nuts, leading to costly and uncomfortable dental procedures. This is what I always tell my patients. Macadamias may seem like a minor luxury. However, they come at a high cost, one that infiltrates gradually and remains for a long time. other nuts can satisfy without putting you under that much strain. Although macadamia could make you feel heavy, the following nut on our list is even more worrisome. It's little greasy and frequently goes unnoticed. However, it can create odd taste disturbances, conflict with medicines, and even lead to severe weight loss in older persons. The majority of people are unaware of how troublesome it may be. Let's discuss it. Four, pine nuts. The medication disruptor. Ruth was a patient of mine a few years ago. At 74, she was considerate and careful about her health. She loved trying out new recipes, walked everyday, and kept track of her prescriptions. She entered my office one day with an odd look of worry. Everything tastes metallic, doctor remarked. Even water has an unpleasant taste. Weeks have passed since it began. We initially examined drugs, digestion, and hydration, but nothing caught our attention. She then talked about a recent addition to her diet, a pine nutri homemade pesto. At that point, everything made sense. Despite their modest size, pine nuts can pose unexpectedly serious issues for elderly people. First, let's talk about Ruth's experience. After consuming specific kinds of pine nuts, she was suffering from a condition called pine mouth, which is characterized by a bitter metallic taste distortion that can persist for days or even weeks. It's not harmful in and of itself, but here's the secret problem. Many seniors unconsciously eat and drink less when food and water suddenly taste bad. Furthermore, this seemingly insignificant side effect can have major repercussions for someone who is already at risk of unintended weight loss or dehydration, hospitalizations, nutritional deficits, and frailty. People often underestimate the importance of taste, particularly as they age. However, pine nuts aren't just for that. The possibility that this specific nut could conflict with popular drugs is one of the main worries. Certain chemicals found in pine nuts have the ability to change how medications are processed in the liver. Among the most often prescribed medicine types for older persons are those for blood pressure, cholesterol, and mood. The danger decreased efficacy or unanticipated adverse effects. Furthermore, because many clinicians still don't fully understand this connection, the majority of seniors are never cautioned about it. And there's the problem of inflammation. The polyunsaturated fats included in pine nuts are sensitive and prone to oxidation, particularly if the nuts have been stored incorrectly or are left on the shelf for an extended period of time. When oxidized, these lipids have the potential to increase inflammation rather than decrease it. For someone managing arthritis, joint pain, or inflammatory conditions like metabolic syndrome, this adds fuel to the fire. And because pine nuts are so often blended into sauces or baked into dishes, most people don't even realize they're consuming them. Another concern I've seen more than once in my older patients is aspiration risk. Pine nuts are small, slippery, and can easily be inhaled accidentally, especially by those on medications that cause dry mouth, which is incredibly common after 60. Combine that with age related changes in swallowing reflexes and you've got a hidden choking hazard. For all of these reasons, I urge seniors to avoid pine nuts altogether. There are plenty of alternatives that offer flavor and healthy fats without these risks. Food should nourish and protect, not complicate or endanger. Now you've learned which nuts to eat and which ones to avoid. But what does this all mean for your daily life? Your energy, your memory, your heart, and even your intimacy. In the final message, I'll help you connect the dots and show you how these small choices can create massive changes. Because at your age, it's never too late to rewrite the story of your health, one bite at a time. Final doctor's message, you're never too old to change what matters. When I reflect on all the years I've spent sitting across from men and women in their 60s, 70s, even 80s, I've come to realize something powerful. Aging doesn't break us down. It's the little habits done repeatedly over time that either build us up or quietly wear us down. And food, especially something as small and seemingly innocent as a handful of nuts, is often at the center of that story. Today we talked about eight nuts. Four that I truly believe every senior should eat daily. Brazil nuts, almonds, walnuts, and pistachios. Not because they're trendy, not because they're sold in a fancy health aisle, but because they work. They support your thyroid and testosterone, strengthen your bones and your brain, improve your sleep, protect your heart, and help you feel in control of your health again. Then we looked at four others. peanuts, cashews, macadamia nuts, and pine nuts that are quietly doing the opposite, causing inflammation, disrupting medication, spiking blood sugar, contributing to weight gain or even weight loss in all the wrong ways. Most of them are marketed as healthy or at the very least harmless. But after 60, your body changes. What once gave you energy might now leave you sluggish. What once passed through easily could now be fueling issues you don't even realize are connected to your food. And I want to say something clearly here. Not as a doctor, but as someone who's watched people I care about struggle silently. You are not broken. You're not too old. Your health is not a lost cause. The body you wake up in today is still listening. It's still changing. And it still responds sometimes in incredible ways to the small, consistent choices you make. I've seen it in the man who swapped peanuts for pistachios and lowered his blood pressure without adding a single new medication. In the woman who ate one Brazil nut a day and finally felt her energy return. In the couple who started snacking on walnuts in the evening and noticed they were both sleeping through the night for the first time in months. These aren't miracles, they're biology. They're your body doing what it's meant to do when you give it the right fuel. So, as you walk into your kitchen tomorrow morning or pass by the snack aisle later this week, pause. Think back to what you've learned here. Choose wisely. You don't need to be perfect. You don't need to change everything at once. But choose one thing and keep choosing it. That's how change begins. Because this isn't just about cholesterol numbers or blood pressure charts. It's about waking up feeling steady on your feet, remembering the name of the neighbor who stopped by, having the energy to walk, to laugh, to hold hands a little longer. It's about staying in the game, not just physically, but emotionally, mentally, and intimately. I'm Dr. Moit Kira, and I want you to remember this. You're not too old to feel strong again. You're not too far gone to reclaim your energy, your clarity, your confidence. You just need to give your body the right things and it will meet you more than halfway. Start with the nuts. Let that be your first signal to your body and to yourself that you're ready to thrive again.