If you cultivate a daily nut-snacking habit, you may see improvements in cognition, heart health, even your love life.

Almonds, pistachios, and macadamias are brain-friendly. A lab study found that the tocopherol, folate, mono- and poly-unsaturated fatty acids, and polyphenols almonds contain stimulate neurotransmitter function, which can improve memory. Pistachio nut oils help prevent inflammation, and macadamias contribute to normal brain function by delivering copper, magnesium, and manganese, all of which are important for healthy neurotransmitters.

But the smartest choice for brain health is the walnut. A study in the journal Nutrients shows that it delivers a super dose of polyphenols, which help counteract inflammation and cognitive decline.

As for your heart health, a 32-year study found that people who ate 1 ounce of nuts five-plus times per week had a 14% lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 20% lower risk of coronary artery disease.

Another study showed a 30% reduction in all cardiovascular events when walnuts and olive oil replaced other dietary fats. And then there's the study that showed a 50% reduction in recurrent heart attacks in participants who ate 12 walnut halves a day.

Walnuts are also loaded with ALA, an omega-3 fatty acid that can help lower your LDL cholesterol and reduce atherosclerotic plaque and inflammation.

As for your love life, another study in Nutrients found that when men eat about one-half cup of a mix of walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts daily for 14 weeks, they report better quality orgasms and increased sexual desire.