For most healthy adults, a good general target is about one small handful of mixed nuts per day, which is roughly 20–30 grams (about 1 ounce).

Daily amount in practice

  • Many nutrition guidelines and heart-health organizations suggest around 30 g of nuts a day, described as a handful or about 1 ounce.
  • In numbers, this is often around 20–30 almonds, 10–15 larger nuts like pecans or macadamias, or 4–5 whole walnuts, depending on size.

Why not eat much more?

  • Nuts are calorie-dense, so eating a lot (for example, several large handfuls daily) can contribute to weight gain if you do not reduce calories elsewhere.
  • Some types have extra concerns; Brazil nuts are very high in selenium, and eating many regularly may exceed the safe daily selenium limit.

When you might need to adjust

  • Larger, more active people or those replacing less healthy snacks may do well with up to about 60 g a day, as some studies show this amount does not necessarily increase fat mass when it replaces other calories.
  • If you have nut allergies, kidney issues, or are on a restricted diet, a healthcare professional or dietitian should help set your personal limit.

Simple rule of thumb

  • Aim for 1 small handful (20–30 g) of unsalted nuts a day as a snack or added to meals.
  • Treat anything beyond 2 handfuls a day as “extra” and balance it by reducing other calorie sources or checking in with a professional if you eat that much regularly.