Researchers scanned various databases to classify randomized control trials of interest and in total, 5,783 articles were identified. Through screening of abstracts, titles, and then full text, a total of 4 articles meeting the criteria were used. From the studies included, nut consumption ranged from 15 to 30 grams and the studies lasted between 3 and 16 weeks.
They concluded that nut consumption improved the children’s diet quality by introducing essential nutrients including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats as well as protein and fiber. The results were a little more inconsistent when considering the effects on biomarkers of cardiometabolic health and gastrointestinal health. Researchers recommended that more studies should explore the broad health benefits of nuts among children and that these studies should include a higher intake of nuts and done over longer periods of time.