At the end of summer we must prepare our body for autumn and severe winter. To do this, we need to strengthen our immune system and thus avoid colds and viruses on cold days. This can be done through a variety of foods to include in our menu, such as nuts .
Cashews are a tree that comes from the genus Anacardiaceae . It is grown mainly in Brazil, Mozambique, Tanzania, Kenya and India. Many people consume it because of its beneficial properties.
In 100 grams of Indian peanuts , as they call it, there are 553 calories, 44 grams of fat , of which 8 unsaturated, the same polyunsaturated and 24 monounsaturated. This amount also contains 12 mg of sodium , 660 mg of potassium, 30 g of carbohydrates and 6 g of sugar. There is no cholesterol in this type of nuts , so they are recommended in many diets .
Here are the main health benefits of cashews:
1. Take care of your heart
A study by the US National Center for Biotechnology Information shows that cashews are good for heart health. Consumption of nuts has a positive effect on oxidative stress, inflammation and vascular reactivity. In addition, they reduce the amount of bad cholesterol (LDL) in the body.
In 2003, the US Food and Drug Administration recommended that cashews be taken once a day in people on low- fat diets . In this way, people can reduce their risk of heart disease. However, the consumption of nuts should not exceed four servings per week as they are high in calories.
2. Improves blood circulation
Regular intake of cashews can reduce the risk of developing circulatory diseases. Indian peanuts contain a large amount of honey, which removes free radicals from the body. On the other hand, if we have a deficiency of this mineral , we will also get a deficiency of iron. That is why it is important to eat cashews and other nuts rich in honey.
3. Improves vision
Our eyes often suffer from various infections due to pollution in the urban environment. Cashews contain the pigment zeaxanthin , which has a strong antioxidant effect. It is absorbed directly by the retina and protects it from pollution, harmful sun rays, and also prevents macular degeneration in the elderly.
4. Improves the condition of the skin
Cashew oil works wonders on the skin. It is rich in selenium , zinc, magnesium, iron and phosphorus. It is also a great source of phytochemicals , proteins and antioxidants. Therefore, it is used for massages on different skin types.
5. Supports the digestive tract
Studies show that cashews have a high percentage of dietary fiber. Our body does not produce oleic and palmitic acid , so we need to get them through food. In this regard, cashews are useful and improve the digestive tract, but we must eat it in moderation, because larger amounts swell the stomach and form gas. The omega 3 fatty acids in it also improve metabolism and burn excess fat.