Penn State clinical research indicates that walnuts, rich in alpha-linolenic acid, an essential omega-3 fatty acid, are beneficial to the skeletal system by decreasing the breakdown of bone.
The study, published in the January 16 edition of Nutrition Journal, evaluated the effect of plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids on human bone health. Higher consumption of alpha-linolenic acid leads to a reduction in bone turnover and a shift in the balance of bone degradation/formation toward formation.
Walnuts are one of the most nutrient-dense whole food sources of ALA. Studies have shown that omega-3s, found in walnuts, reduce inflammation, heart and vascular disease risk, decrease insulin resistance, assist with weight management, and may be beneficial in brain function.