Tobias says that peanuts also contain more niacin than any nut—a whopping 17 milligrams in a single cup. Niacin is a B vitamin that supports your nervous and digestive systems and has been associated with reduced arthritis pain. Goodson says their higher-fiber content means peanuts can also reduce your risk of developing gallstones.

What's more, one ounce of peanuts contains 2.2 milligrams of vitamin E—15 percent of the recommended daily intake. This "antioxidant nutrient," Weisenberger notes, can help prevent blood clotting and can protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.  

Walnuts

The last nut on this list might be the best one for you. "Because they boost both brain health and heart health, walnuts are a nutritional powerhouse," says Messer.

Although most nuts have similar compositions of healthy fats and plenty of vitamins and minerals, "walnuts are noteworthy because they also provide a bonus of omega-3 fatty acids," says Walter Willett, a professor of epidemiology and nutrition at Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health.

Omega-3s offer numerous health benefits including boosting one's mood, reducing symptoms associated with ADHD, and improving eye, skin, and joint health. Omega-3s are also associated with lower triglycerides, reduced inflammation, and improved blood pressure—making them critical for lowering heart disease risk.