With the rise of the British empire, English merchant marines spread the walnut --- originally from Persia --- around the world. Although not low in calories, the English walnut is a source of omega-3 fatty acids, among other nutrients.
Calorie Content
A single walnut has 26 calories, according to the USDA's nutrition database.
Nutrition Profile
Walnuts are low in carbohydrates and protein, according to the California Walnut Commission. About 84 percent of a walnut's calories come from fat. Walnuts are valuable as a source of ALA, a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid; magnesium; and phosphorous.
Considerations
In folk medicine, walnuts were thought to be "brain food" because of the resemblance between the nut and the human brain, says David W. Grotto, scientific advisor for "Men's Health" magazine and author of "101 Foods That Could Save Your Life." Because they contain gamma-tocopherol, a type of vitamin E, and ellagitannins, an type of antioxidant, walnuts might help prevent cancer.
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