 Despite the name, pine nuts are actually not nuts at all but the seeds of the pine cone. They have been a popular source of nutrition since Paleolithic times and are used to add delicious flavor and texture to pesto sauce. Six amazing health benefits associated with pine nuts: Weight Loss Pine nuts are a rich source of pinolenic acid, which is a fatty acid that scientific research has proven to be an appetite suppressant. It works by causing your body to release the hormones cholecystokinin and glucagon-like peptide-1, which are hormones known to keep hunger at bay. Cardiovascular Support Pine nuts are an excellent source of monosaturated fat, which is known to decrease the levels of cholesterol in our blood stream, which in turn lowers our risk of heart attack and stroke. They also contain high amounts of vitamin E, vitamin K, copper, iron and manganese, which are all known to contribute to cardiovascular health. High in Iron Pine nuts are rich in iron, which the body uses for a great many of its essential processes such as the regulation of the central nervous system and blood circulation. The copper that is naturally present in pine nuts also aids in the absorption of iron by our bodies. Anti-Aging Another of the many benefits of pine nuts is its ability to slow down the aging process. This is done by their high antioxidant content which protects the body against the damage done by free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that are produced either when our body breaks down food or we are exposed to harmful environmental hazards such as tobacco smoke or radiation. They can damage cells and may play a role in heart disease and cancer as well as accelerating the aging process. Copper is also present in pine nuts and is also known to help prevent aging. Eye Health Pine nuts also contain lutein which helps our eyes filter UV light, preventing it from damaging the macula, which is the region of the retina responsible for central vision. Macular degeneration increases with age, and lutein will help prevent your sight from deteriorating. Also present in pine nuts is beta-carotene, which the human body converts into vitamin A, which is very good for the overall health of our eyes. Energy Boost Pine nuts are also a great means of boosting our energy levels. They contain protein that our body requires to repair and build tissues. Unlike the quick-fix energy drinks so popular today, protein is a slow-burning fuel that gives us long lasting energy that does not result in burnout. The magnesium present in pine nuts also helps improve our bodies' use of oxygen to burn calories and increase our energy levels. 