Researchers at the Imperial College of London and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology analyzed 29 previously published studies involving 819,000 subjects. They found that people who eat about a handful of nuts a day have a lower risk of heart disease and cancer, as well as respiratory conditions, diabetes and infections. While nuts are quite high in fat, they are also great sources of fiber and protein and rich in magnesium and polyunsaturated fats. Some nuts, particularly walnuts and pecans, are also high in cancer-fighting antioxidants.
If your child is not allergic, inculcate a habit of snacking on nuts (instead of junk food).