Author: Ivan Red Jr.
Time for reading: ~1
minutes
Last Updated:
August 08, 2022
Brazil nut is indispensable in selenium deficiency. However, consume it in moderation.
Selenium is as useful for the body as it is difficult to get it in the required daily doses with food alone. Brazil nuts are the first choice of anyone suffering from selenium deficiency. With only 2 nuts you can get all the necessary amount of selenium for the day for both men and women.
Apart from being the leader among all foods rich in selenium, however, Brazil nuts can also be used as a source of a number of other trace elements, vitamins and essential fatty acids.
The composition of these nuts contains high doses of ellagic acid , protein, fiber, magnesium, zinc, copper, vitamin B1 ( thiamine ), vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids and others.
This composition of Brazil nuts is the reason for their regular consumption to bring serious health benefits. The main reason for them is the high content of selenium, but the complementary influence of the other ingredients also plays a role.
Selenium, especially in combination with ellagic acid and vitamin B1, supports brain function. On the one hand, they protect brain neurons from damage and inflammation, and on the other hand, they improve mood and general emotional state. Selenium deficiency is associated with increased anxiety and depression.
Along with the neurological benefits, the combination of selenium and ellagic acid has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect , helping to control acute and chronic inflammatory diseases.
Selenium is a key trace element for thyroid health. Its regular intake supports the secretion of thyroid hormone . Consumption of Brazil nuts can help balance hormone levels in people with hypothyroidism.
Selenium also acts as a powerful antioxidant. In addition to neutralizing free radicals, it also helps prevent some cancers. A study conducted in China proves that chronic selenium deficiency is after the triggers in esophageal carcinoma (esophageal cancer).
It is important to specify that although very useful, in high doses selenium is toxic . Therefore, Brazil nuts should not be overdone. A small handful a day is enough to reap all the health benefits.