The cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale) is a small evergreen tree up to 12 meters high, native to Brazil, and now cultivated in many tropical areas of the world for its tasty fruit. Its seeds are kidney-shaped and are mainly grown in countries like India, Kenya and Tanzania.
It is highly nutritious and packed with protein and essential minerals, including copper, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, potassium and zinc.
Cashews contain less fat than other nuts. Two-thirds of the fat in cashews are unsaturated fatty acids, 75 percent of those unsaturated fatty acids are oleic acid (it is also contained in olive oil), known for its beneficial effect on heart health.
They also have a beneficial effect on diabetes, helping to lower triglyceride levels and protecting against further complications associated with high sugar and cholesterol levels. Regular consumption of cashews significantly reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Cashews are an excellent source of antioxidants. This fruit provides phosphorus, which is necessary for the healthy development of teeth and bones.
Good for weight loss
Cashews are often recommended as part of a healthy weight loss diet. Cashews do not contain cholesterol, are rich in dietary fiber and provide a lot of energy. Moderate consumption of this food during a diet gives a feeling of satiety and satisfaction. Cashews contain zinc, which plays an important role in strengthening the immune system against microbial infections, protein synthesis and wound healing. This is very important during pregnancy for the development of the child and maintaining a stable state in the body, reports Nezavisne.
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