The Brazilian cashew nut is one that can be found in many desi dishes and has an incredible, year-long shelf life if stored properly. Contrary to popular belief, eating cashews will not make you gain weight, but instead, there are many health benefits and we’re here to tell you all about them.
1. Heart Health:
Cashews help lower LDL and increase the carrying capacity for HDL. HDL is responsible for absorbing the cholesterol from the heart and taking it to the liver where it can be broken down. The Food and Drug Administration had stated that a fistful of nuts a day as part of a low-fat diet may also reduce the risk of heart disease.
2. Prevents Blood Disease:
Consumption of cashews on a regular basis may help in avoid blood diseases as they are rich in copper, which plays an important role in the elimination of free radicals from the body. Copper deficiency can lead to iron deficiencies such as anaemia, hence our diet should contain the recommended quantity of copper through cashews.
3. Protects the Eyes:
In our busy urban environment our eyes often suffer from various infections. Cashews contains a powerful antioxidant pigment called Zea Xanthin. This pigment is readily and directly absorbed by our retina and then forms a protective layer over our retina which prevents harm from UV rays.
4. Skin:
Cashew nut oil is rich in selenium, zinc, magnesium, iron and phosphorous which are great sources of phytochemicals, proteins and antioxidants. The high percentage of selenium in cashews is not only good for your skin but also helps prevent cancer.
5. Weight Loss:
People consuming nuts on a moderate and regular basis lose weight faster and have lower BMIs then non-consumers.
6. Source of Dietary Fibres:
Cashews contain oleic acid and palmitic acid which are fibres that our bodies cannot produce internally. They help you digest food better but, taken in excess, they can cause bloating as well. Consumption of nuts like cashews have been related to decreased incidences of several digestive diseases.
7. Healthy and Shiny Hair:
Consumption of cashews as well as the application of cashew oil on your scalp ensures healthy hair because of the copper present in cashews that produce melanin. This enhances hair colour and can provide a silky-smooth texture due to the presence of linoleic and oleic acids.
