Cashew nuts are a nut and oil-rich fruit that is rich in nutrients and beneficial active ingredients for health. It is an excellent source of monounsaturated fats, vitamins, and minerals, and has antioxidant properties .
Here are some of the benefits of cashew nuts:
Cardiovascular health: Cashew nuts are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health. They can help reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) levels and increase HDL (good cholesterol) levels.
Bone health: Cashew nuts are an excellent source of magnesium, copper, phosphorus, and iron, all of which are important minerals for bone health 1.
Digestive health: Cashew nuts are rich in dietary fiber, which can help improve digestion and reduce digestive and gastric disorders such as bloating 14.
Mental health: Cashew nuts are a source of tryptophan, an amino acid that is converted to serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is aneurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and appetite .
Eye health: Cashew nuts are a source of lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoids that are important for eye health .
It is important to note that cashew nuts should be consumed in moderation as they are high in calories. A 30 g serving of cashew nuts contains approximately 180 to 210 calories 5. In addition, cashew nuts can cause allergic reactions in some people .