Why are Cashew Nuts So Important For Our Health?

Cashew nuts, a common component in Indian gravies, sweet dishes, and sometimes even regarded as a very quick and healthful snack, hold a particular place in our hearts and diets! Cashews have been used for generations in traditional Indian cuisines and desserts, and studies have proven that they offer several health benefits. There’s no limit to the wonderful influence these nuts have on our bodies—here are the top five health advantages of cashew nuts:

Introduction to Cashew Nuts!

Cashew nuts, also known as Kaju, are technically seeds rather than nuts.  Cashews are scientifically known as Anacardium Occidentale L. and are part of the Anacardiaceae family. 

The underside of the cashew apple (a delicate and delicious fruit) bears a single-seeded nut with a hard gray shell. There are 33 types of cashews recognized, although only 26 are commercially available.  The W-180 cultivar is referred to as the “king of cashews”.  

Cashews are a popular ingredient recognized for their rich, nutty taste, and they are used in a variety of Indian recipes as well as dairy replacements such as cream and cashew milk.  In terms of nutritional content, cashew nuts are high in tocopherols, phytosterols, phenolic lipids, and bioactive chemicals, all of which have several health benefits.

Cashews grow on evergreen trees that originated in Brazil and spread to other South American nations. The Portuguese introduced cashews to India and Africa in the 16th century. The cashew tree is native to Brazil and was brought to India by Portuguese traders in the 1560s.

Health advantages of cashew nuts

Heart Health  

Cardiovascular disorders are the primary cause of rising death rates in India. Cashews contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are crucial for lowering LDL cholesterol. This lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and heart attack. Cashews, with their healthful fat, are a healthier alternative to high-cholesterol items like dairy butter. Cashew butter is quickly becoming a popular replacement for dairy butter across the world.

Prevention of Blood Disorders

Anaemia and hemoglobin deficiency are common issues in India, affecting both babies and adults. Plain cashew nuts are high in copper, which helps the body eliminate free radicals.  Copper deficiency can cause anemia; copper in cashews aids in the synthesis of hemoglobin, which is required to produce red blood cells.

Eye Health

Cashews are a very underappreciated source of nourishment for maintaining eye health! They contain the antioxidant pigment Zeaxanthin. This pigment is absorbed by the retina, forming a protective coating that keeps UV radiation from damaging your eyes. It offers various advantages, including lowering the risk of age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts.

Healthy skin

Cashew oil, derived from cashew seeds, does wonders for the skin. Cashew oil is high in selenium, zinc, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus, which not only provide minerals for a healthy lifestyle but also prevent cancer. Cashew nut oil, which is high in polyphenols and antioxidants, can also help heal wounds and scars.

Healthy, Shiny Hair

A handful of cashews every day is a foolproof approach to get glossy, long, and luscious hair. Cashew nuts contain copper, which aids in the development of melanin, enhancing your natural hair color and leaving your tresses bright, healthy, and silky smooth. Cashews are also high in potassium, which helps prevent excessive hair loss and promotes hair growth.

Conclusion

Add the nutritious advantages of cashew nuts to your diet and give them to your family. Purchase high-quality nuts from reputed cashew nut suppliers. Enjoy the benefits of this versatile nut with a single click – be healthy and cashewlicious!