From heart health, to weight management or even great skin and hair, here’s a little nut that has it all, and what’s more, it doubles up as a delicious snack. We’re talking about none other than the modest little cashew nut. Native to Brazil and Venezuela, this nut was introduced to the world by early Portuguese settlers, and rest as they say is history.
Used extensively in South Asian cruising, be it in the form of sweets or as the base of gravies, Kaju as it is known in India is a wonder nut that is brimming with nutrition. Here are a few reasons why you should include this delicious nut to your daily diet.
Helps you shed kilos
For too long the world thought of Cashew nuts as being too fatty, and this became a reason to avoid them, but latest research suggests quite the opposite. Daily consumption of cashew nuts in a moderate quantity actually aids in weight loss and this is because Cashew nuts score high on satiety, meaning they keep you full for longer and hence prevent binge eating or overindulgence. Hurray!
Helps you stay calm
If you’re feeling down, then a handful of cashew nuts is all you need to elevate your mood. This is because Cashew nuts contain Tryptophan, a brain boosting chemical that helps produce Serotonin, a mood stabilizer. Moreover Cashew nuts also contain vitamin B6 and magnesium, both of which also help stabilize mood swings.
Great for diabetics
Nuts in general have a low GI (glycemic index) meaning that they release glucose into the bloodstream very slowly, and this is the main reason why they make a great snack for diabetics. Cashew Nuts in particular have the least fat content compared to other nuts, making them even better.
Protects your eyes
This wonder nut is a rich source of omega 3 and vitamin E, both of which boost eyesight by protecting eye cells from free radical damage. Further, cashew nuts also contain Zeaxanthin, a pigment that protects eyes from harsh light such as UV rays and even too much screen time.
Gives you great skin and hair
Cashew nuts contain Selenium which protects skin against aging. They are also rich in Vitamin C and Folate both of which help keep your skin and hair healthy.
Improves digestion
Cashew nuts are a rich source of dietary fiber that feed you gut bacteria, helping them thrive. Eating a handful of cashew nuts on a regular basis can help heal digestive disorders.
So there you have it. Now you don’t have to feel guilty when you give in to the temptation of our delicious roasted Peri Peri cashews or the crunchy yet zesty Peppery cashews, or even our delicately flavored pink himalayan cashews. Simply eat in moderation and enjoy the many benefits this nut has to offer.