Brazilian nuts are seeds of the largest and longest-living trees in the Amazon rainforest. They have a smooth and buttery texture and nutty flavor, densely packed with Loads of nutrients and a rich source of mineral Selenium. Check out the nutritional content of 1 ounce of Brazilian nuts:
- Calories: 187
- Carbohydrates: 3.3 grams
- Protein: 4.1 grams
- Fat: 19 grams
- Fiber: 2.1 grams
- Selenium: 988% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
The high concentration of Selenium and other minerals like copper, zinc, and magnesium make Brazilian nuts an extraordinary source of polyunsaturated fatty acids that energizes the body. They are typically consumed raw or blanched and possess innumerable health benefits listed below:
Improves Thyroid Functioning
Brazilian nuts contain more minerals than other nuts, which are responsible for proper body functioning, boosting your immune system, and improving the thyroid gland’s performance. The thyroid gland lies in the throat and secrets certain hormones that are responsible for regulating growth, metabolism, and body temperature. A high amount of Selenium is present in thyroid tissue, protecting it from damage. Otherwise, there can be cellular damage and autoimmune disorders due to low Selenium content. Thyroid diseases can be caused due to low Selenium content, such as hypothyroidism, thyroiditis, and an enlarged thyroid. Consuming merely one Brazilian nut per day can maintain proper thyroid functioning.
Reduces Inflammation
The antioxidants found in Brazilian nuts such as Selenium, vitamin E, and phenols improve the cellular functions of your body and fight the damage caused by free radicals. Selenium and other minerals help the production of certain enzymes responsible for reducing inflammation and protect your body from the imbalance caused by antioxidants and free radicals. However, long-term dietary changes are also required, along with consuming Brazilian nuts to reap its benefits. In addition, among the unimaginable benefits of Brazilian nuts, improving hair health and texture is one of the most renowned.
Improves Heart Health
Polyunsaturated fats are healthy fatty acids contained in Brazilian nuts that are rich in fiber, minerals, and antioxidants, lowering the risk of certain heart diseases. These nuts also balance cholesterol levels by lowering the level of bad cholesterol(LDL) and highering good cholesterol(HDL) levels and preventing several kidney diseases.
Enhances Brain Health
Ellagic acid and Selenium in Brazilian nuts have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that suit the inflammation in the brain and have antidepressant effects. Studies have reported that Brazilian nuts have positive effects on improving mental impairment in older adults and preventing other neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s due to the presence of a high amount of Selenium.
THE BOTTOM LINE
If you have reached this far, you must have understood the innumerable benefits of consuming Brazilian nuts, such as improving thyroid functioning, heart health, and brain functioning. Intaking even a single Brazilian nut regularly has the potential to keep your body functioning properly.