Cashew Nuts: The surprising health benefits

Did you know the cashew nut is not actually a nut? it 

is actually a seed!

The cashew nut is a favorite snack that can be found easily. Particularly here in Tanzania, we take great pride in the cashew nuts that are being produced in Mtwara. The cashew nuts are actually seeds with a kidney-like shape. It is important to note that they are actually a seed and not a nut because there are people who are allergic to nuts but may not be allergic to seeds.

Personally, i was always a fan of peanuts and a bit of pistachio nuts- never cashew nuts. It was just a few months ago that i tried some at work and i loved them! They had so much flavor and i slowly started getting addicted to them. But then i remembered that nuts have a lot of fats and i started wondering if i was putting my health in danger by eating all those cashew nuts. I decided to do a bit of investigating about cashew nuts and i discovered the following surprising benefits.

Cashew nuts protect the heart

Cashews have a lower fat content compared to other nuts. Approximately 75% of their fat is unsaturated fatty acids and 75% of this fatty acid is oleic acid. One of the chief sources of this acid is found in olive oil! And we all know how good olive oil is. Studies show oleic acids helps keep the heart healthy and even with individuals with diabetes. The magnesium in cashew nuts help lower blood pressure and prevent heart attacks.

Great for the bones

Cashews are also rich in magnesium which is needed for the bones. About two thirds of the magnesium in our body is found in bones. Some of it helps determine the bones physical structure and the reminder is stored n the surface of the bones. Magnesium helps regulate nerve and muscle tone

Prevents gallstones

Data collected from the Nurse's Health Study shows that women who eat more cashew nuts have a 25% lower risk of developing gallstones!

Lets go nuts about cashew nuts! Its always great to opt for the healthier snack