Quick answer: Ranked best to worst by overall nutrition per 100 g, our top 10 nuts are: almonds, walnuts, pistachios, cashews, Brazil nuts, pecans, hazelnuts, macadamia, pine nuts and peanuts (USDA data, scored on protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals). Almonds lead for Vitamin E and calcium, walnuts for omega-3 ALA, Brazil nuts for selenium.
The Healthiest Nuts Ranked — Complete 2026 Guide
Not all nuts are created equal. While every nut has nutritional value, some stand out for specific health benefits. Here is a data-driven ranking of the 12 most popular nuts.
The Master Ranking
| Rank | Nut | Score | Top Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Almonds | 9.5/10 | Highest Vitamin E, calcium |
| 2 | Walnuts | 9.3/10 | Most omega-3 (ALA) |
| 3 | Pistachios | 9.0/10 | Lutein, B6, fewer calories than most |
| 4 | Cashews | 8.8/10 | Zinc, copper, versatility |
| 5 | Brazil Nuts | 8.5/10 | Selenium (top food source) |
| 6 | Pecans | 8.3/10 | Antioxidant polyphenols, manganese |
| 7 | Hazelnuts | 8.2/10 | Vitamin E, folate |
| 8 | Macadamia | 8.0/10 | Highest monounsaturated fats |
| 9 | Pine Nuts | 7.8/10 | Manganese, unique fats |
| 10 | Peanuts | 7.5/10 | Highest protein, affordable |
| 11 | Chestnuts | 7.0/10 | Lowest fat, highest carb |
| 12 | Coconut (dried) | 6.5/10 | MCT fats, fibre |
