The almond flower that burst from Joseph's walking stick was considered the sign that sealed fate, according to the story. Oral tradition also puts nuts at the nativity, as gifts to Joseph. But again, the story is questionable. What is certain is that since the earliest of times, nuts have been a source of food and oil collected by food-gathering peoples, and they have been offered as gifts. In an interview, Spiller pointed to the antioxidants in the skin surrounding almonds, and amino acids in almonds and hazelnuts that relax the arteries and can help prevent chronic disease, including coronary heart disease.
Nuts also contain protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals, including magnesium and potassium.
With the exception of chestnuts, all nuts are high in fat. Leading the fat pack is pecans. Almonds are loaded with fat and calories, but their fat is unsaturated. They're a moderate source of protein, dietary fiber and, if unsalted, are low in sodium. Walnuts are high in polyunsaturated fat and are a good source of potassium.