What are the benefits of the layer of tiger skin on walnut kernels

The brown thin skin on the surface of walnut kernels, commonly known as tiger skin, contains various active ingredients that have antioxidant, blood lipid improving, and cardiovascular protection effects. The main functions of walnut tiger skin include polyphenol antioxidant, plant sterols regulating cholesterol, dietary fiber promoting intestinal health, melatonin assisting sleep, and trace element supplementation for nutrition.

1. Polyphenolic substances antioxidant

Walnut tiger skin is rich in polyphenolic compounds such as tannic acid and flavonoids, which can neutralize free radicals in the body and slow down cellular oxidative damage. Animal experiments have shown that its extract can enhance the activity of superoxide dismutase, which has potential benefits in preventing skin aging and chronic inflammation. It is recommended to keep tiger skin for complete nutrition when consuming, but individuals with gastrointestinal sensitivity should control their intake.

2. Plant sterols regulate cholesterol

Plant sterols such as β - sitosterol in tiger skin have similar structures to cholesterol and can competitively inhibit cholesterol absorption in the intestine. Long term moderate intake helps maintain low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and has an auxiliary regulatory effect on individuals with high blood lipids. Be aware that excessive intake may interfere with the absorption of fat soluble vitamins.

3. Dietary fiber promotes intestinal health

Each 100 grams of walnut tiger skin contains about 3 grams of insoluble dietary fiber, which can increase fecal volume and stimulate intestinal peristalsis. Its fermentation products can promote the proliferation of probiotics and improve the intestinal microbiota environment. Constipated individuals can consume it with skin on, but patients with irritable bowel syndrome should remove the skin to avoid irritation.

4. Melatonin assisted sleep

Walnut tiger skin is one of the few plant tissues that contains natural melatonin, which can regulate circadian rhythms. Eating 5-6 walnuts with skin at night may improve difficulty falling asleep, but the effect varies from person to person. It is not recommended to take it together with sleeping pills. Children and pregnant women should consult

before consumption.

5. Nutritional supplementation of trace elements

Tiger skin concentrates most of the zinc, magnesium, manganese and other trace elements in walnuts, with zinc content up to twice that of nuts. These minerals participate in enzyme synthesis and nerve conduction, playing an important role in wound healing and bone health. It is recommended to use low-temperature baking to preserve the nutritional content. Although walnut tiger skin has nutritional advantages, it is recommended to control the daily intake within 30 grams to avoid excessive tannic acid causing bloating. When consumed, citrus fruits rich in vitamin C can be paired to enhance iron absorption. Special populations such as patients with thyroid diseases and allergies should eat without skin. When storing, it is necessary to seal and prevent moisture to avoid the oxidation of oil and fat in tiger skin, which may produce a rancid smell. In daily life, walnut kernels can be soaked and rubbed to remove some astringency, while retaining the nutrients of tiger skin and improving the taste.