Brazil nut is a very healthy natural treat. It contains even more saturated fat than macadamia. But this is one of the most high-calorie nuts among all existing ones. But Brazilian is superior to him, and in many respects. It is tastier, more nutritious, more healthy.
It is not surprising that in the culinary sphere they are often replaced by the same macadamia and even coconuts. And since it’s so good, it’s worthwhile to tell in detail about the beneficial properties of the Brazil nut and some of its other features.
Taste
Not everyone has tried this natural delicacy, so it will be right to start a discussion of the topic by considering its taste.
Everyone, of course, has a different perception of products, but a Brazil nut can be compared with hazelnuts or cedar. Only the aroma is not so pronounced. Also, having tasted a little fruit, you can catch a subtle earthy taste. It is present due to the high content of mono- and polyunsaturated fats. By the way, nuts smell like butter, and the reason is the same.
And yes, before moving on to listing the beneficial properties of a nut, it is worth noting its nutritional value. 100 grams contains:
- 682 kcal (2851 kJ).
- Squirrels. 14 g
- Fats. 66 g
- Carbohydrates. 12 g
And the rest will now be discussed in more detail.
Polyunsaturated Acids
They are contained in an amount of 24% in a Brazil nut. Useful properties, in many respects, are caused precisely by their presence in the composition. To be more precise, this product contains linoleic polyunsaturated acid. Its benefits are as follows:
- It provides protection of blood vessels, maintains their elasticity and density.
- It has a membrane protective effect on cells.
- Prevents the development of atherosclerosis.
- Contributes to the regulation of the sex glands and adrenal glands.
- Makes fluid tissue normal.
- Improves immunity.
- Prevents inflammatory processes.
- Positive effect on metabolism.
- Improves memory.
- They will accelerate tissue regeneration.
- It has a calming effect.
- Improves the digestive tract and stomach.
- It takes part in the synthesis of prostaglandins.
- Positive effect on blood coagulation processes in case of injuries and injuries.
Gamma-linoleic acid, into which linoleic acid breaks down, enters the body, even contributes to the inhibition of processes in Alzheimer's disease. So its benefits can hardly be overestimated.
Monounsaturated Acids
Many of the beneficial properties of Brazil nuts are due to the presence of these substances in it (41% of the total composition). They are represented by two acids:
- Palmitic. It activates the synthesis of hyaluronic acid, collagen and elastin. That is, it positively affects the renewal and regeneration of skin tissues.
- Oleic. It blocks the absorption of cholesterol from food, eliminates platelets, increases protein production, promotes the formation of myelin and the restoration of nerve cells.
Moreover, these substances reduce the likelihood of the formation of atherosclerotic deposits on the vascular walls.
Saturated Acids
We can not help but mention them, telling about the beneficial properties of the Brazil nut. Their content is 25%. In total, two types of saturated acids are included:
- Myristic. Stabilizes various proteins, including proteins of the immune system. Creates energy reserves in the human body.
- Stearin. It maintains water balance in the body and is an indispensable cellular building material.
It should be noted that stearic acid is actively used in the cosmetic field. With its addition, skin rejuvenating and moisturizing agents are made. All because stearic acid is distinguished by the following qualities:
- It increases the susceptibility of the epidermis to the nutrients found in cosmetics.
- Effectively moisturizes.
- Protects the skin from harmful external influences.
- Heals cracks in the lips.
- It does not allow the loss of moisture in the epidermis, as it regulates the water balance.
- Prevents peeling, soreness and irritation.
That is why Brazil nut oil is actively used in cosmetology and perfumery.
Selenium
The Brazil nut contains a huge amount of selenium, which is the maximum possible. 100 grams contains a daily dose in the ratio of 2740%! This is about 7.5 mg.
This substance in the human body interacts with biological membranes, enzymes and vitamins, and is directly involved in the regulation of metabolism, carbohydrates, proteins and fats. He is also involved in redox processes. It is also worth noting that selenium is part of the proteins of the myocardium and muscle tissue. Here are just a few of its useful properties:
- Selenium is a powerful antioxidant and protects the body from oxidative stress.
- Improves blood flow, minimizes the likelihood of developing diseases of the heart and blood vessels.
- Prevents the development of oncological processes.
- Increases immunity.
- Improves fertility.
- Positive effect on the thyroid gland.
- Helps treat asthma.
Most of the beneficial properties of the Brazil nut for the body are due precisely to the content of selenium in its fruits. It is worth adding it to your diet if there is a deficiency of this substance. One nucleolus per day will be enough; abuse is not recommended.
By the way, in the late 90s, a study was conducted, according to the results of which it turned out that more than 80% of the inhabitants of Russia have a deficiency of selenium.
Magnesium
For 100 grams of walnut, 125% (500 mg) of the daily norm of this substance is accounted for. Magnesium is an active participant in metabolic processes, and it also provides the following benefits:
- Positive effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular system, kidneys and brain.
- Participates in protein synthesis.
- Helps the implementation of digestive processes.
- Improves the endocrine system.
- Helps to be absorbed by vitamins B.
And this is not the whole list. It can also be noted that with a lack of magnesium, malfunctioning of the central nervous system is observed. Because nerve cells become highly excitable. This is manifested in irritability, susceptibility to external influences and in insomnia.
Not magnesium deficiency indicates nausea, headaches and muscle aches, irregular heartbeats, fatigue and poor appetite.
Other substances
Talking about the features and useful properties of the Brazil nut, the photo of which is presented above, it is also worth mentioning the content of the following substances in it:
- Manganese. Promotes the effective absorption of food, maintains normal bone structure and affects the production of hormones by the thyroid gland.
- Copper. It improves the composition of blood and the process of assimilation of iron by tissues, positively affects cardiovascular activity.
- Phosphorus. It is necessary for the full functioning of the genitourinary system, rapid cell growth and bone strength.
- Calcium. It normalizes the functioning of the nervous system, prevents the occurrence of diseases of the heart and digestive tract.
- Thiamine. It has a positive effect on metabolic processes, strengthens the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system.
- Vitamin E. is a powerful antioxidant that also improves the central nervous system and affects muscle gain.
Benefits for women
Separately, I would like to talk about the specific value of the product under discussion, depending on gender. So, here are some of the beneficial properties of a Brazil nut for women:
- Extends reproductive age due to the content of selenium.
- Promotes the treatment of skin rashes, thanks to the zinc present in the composition.
- It accelerates the regenerative processes in the skin due to vitamins E and C.
- Effectively fights free radicals due to its high content of antioxidants.
The use of 2-3 nucleoli per day significantly reduces the risk of neoplasms in the mammary glands and reproductive organs.
By the way, girls involved in sports are strongly recommended to eat Brazil nuts. Useful properties and calorie content of its fruits provide rapid muscle building. And without body fat.
Also, many people know firsthand about the beneficial properties of Brazil nuts for hair. It really is. The composition of the fruit includes thiamine, which produces a general anti-aging effect and helps preserve the beauty of nails and hair.
Benefit for men
Representatives of a strong part of humanity are also strongly recommended to use Brazil nuts. The beneficial properties for men are as follows:
- Magnesium and selenium prevent prostate problems.
- Antioxidants prolong youth and reduce the risk of cancer.
- The complex of substances contained in fruits increases testosterone levels by several percent, and also increases sperm motility and production.
- Reduces cholesterol, preventing the development of cardiovascular disease and blood clots.
- Positive effect on the work of the testes, improving the reproductive system.
- Due to its content, Omega-6 acid also increases the amount of testosterone, and also prevents problems associated with blood vessels, heart and overweight.
For men, the norm is the use of two fruits per day.
Contraindications
Well, much has been said about the beneficial properties of Brazil nuts. And finally, it is also worth mentioning contraindications in this case. It is not recommended to use this product if a person has:
- Individual intolerance.
- Allergy to protein.
- Chronic gastrointestinal diseases.
- The immunity of monounsaturated fats.
- Overweight problems.
Also, do not give nuts to children whose age is less than three years. It is necessary to introduce this product into the child’s diet gradually. The children's body is very susceptible to everything new. It is best to grind half the kernel, and mix the resulting mass in cottage cheese or yogurt. So, by the way, and adults can be consumed. Brazil nut is a delicious and nutritious supplement suitable for many dishes and goodies.