Cashews Benefits
The health benefits of cashews include a healthy heart, strong nerve and muscle function, aid in the formation of red blood cells, and an improved bone and oral health. They also provide a relief from diabetes, anemia, and gallstones. By offering an antioxidant defense, they also encourage a better immune system.
What are Cashews?
Cashews are super nuts belonging to the family of Anacardiaceae, which includes mangoes and pistachios. They are originally native to the coastal areas of north-eastern Brazil. They are kidney-shaped seeds and are widely cultivated in places that have tropical climates. Cashews are grown in countries like India, Sri Lanka, Kenya, and Tanzania. The nuts stick to the bottom of the fruit, known as a cashew apple, and have diverse uses, particularly in Brazil, Asia, and Africa.
Cashews Nutrition Fact
Cashews are very nutritious and are a powerhouse of proteins and essential minerals including copper, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. Sodium is also present in very small quantities. Cashews also contain vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin B1 (thiamin), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B6, folate, vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol), and vitamin K (phylloquinone). They are a source of oleic acid and provide a good quantity of monounsaturated fat and low amounts of polyunsaturated fats with no harmful cholesterol if consumed appropriately.
Cashews Health Benefits
Health benefits of cashews are incredible and mentioned below are the reasons why you should add them to your diet:
Reduce Risk of Diabetes
The presence of very low amounts of sugar and no harmful cholesterol in cashews makes them safe for diabetic patients! This even helps in lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Boost Immune System
Cashews contain zinc, which plays a vital role in the strengthening of the immune system against microbial infections, protein synthesis, and the healing of wounds. It is extremely important during pregnancy for the growth of the baby and the developmental years of childhood to maintain a stable state of their body.
Boost Bone & Oral Health
Cashews provide phosphorous, which is essential for the healthy development of teeth and bones. Phosphorous also aids in protein synthesis, absorption of carbohydrates and fats, and the maintenance of cellular health.
Healthy Muscles & Nerves
Cashews are a good source of magnesium, which is vital for the healthy development of bones, muscles, tissues, and organs of the body. Magnesium helps to maintain blood pressure, boost the immune system, maintain the nerve function, and keep the bones strong. It also is involved in metabolic functions, influences the insulin activity and regulates the blood sugar levels of the body. A deficiency of magnesium alters the metabolism of calcium and the hormones responsible for its regulation.
Reduce Risk of Anemia
Cashews are a source of dietary iron which is vital for carrying oxygen around the body and aids in the functioning of enzymes and the immune system. A deficiency of iron in the diet can lead to fatigue, anemia, and an increased susceptibility to infections.
Culinary Usage
Cashew nuts are tasty and highly sought-after nuts. They can be enjoyed either roasted or plain, and with or without salt. They are added to a various vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies and a range of confectionery food items like cookies, biscuits, and ice cream.
Apart from the famous and delicious cashew nut, the cashew tree offers an immense treasure of medicinal and industrial uses as well. These applications are widely popular in Guyana and all over the Amazon.
Prevent Heart Diseases
Cashews are a good source of healthy dietary fats, which are essential for our body to absorb the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and vitamin K and produce fatty acids that are vital for the development of the brain and blood clotting. These healthy fats include monounsaturated fats (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fats (PUFA). They are good for the heart and help to reduce bad cholesterol (LDL cholesterol) if consumed in appropriate amounts, even in diabetics.
