Unlike their name, Brazil nuts are technically seeds that grow in the South American virgin rainforests. These large crescent-shaped seeds are enclosed in a dark brown shell which resembles those of nuts. The tree from which they come is known as Bertholletia excelsa. Agouti, a type of South American rodent eats these seeds and hides others for later consumption.
Brazil nuts are high in calories and fat, and have a rich, creamy flavour. Brazil nuts are particularly valued for their extraordinary selenium content. They have the highest selenium content among all the nuts with just four nuts providing over 100% RDA of this trace mineral. They are an important food source in many Latin American nations and can be a perfect mid-morning snack. Their rich creamy flavour makes them a tasty addition to an assortment of dishes. Some people do not like their flavour, so they often roast and season them to enhance their taste.
Brazil nut trees grow up to a height of 165 feet in the Amazon rainforests. These trees bear sweet yellowy flowers and fruits. In fact, Brazil nuts are also fruits. The seeds are harvested from the rainforests by the workers who collect the seeds when they fall from the trees during the rainy season.
Brazil nuts are often considered unhealthy due to their high fat content. However, when taken in moderation, they provide several health benefits as they are a rich source of protein and other essential nutrients.
Brazil nuts are particularly beneficial for those with low thyroid function as they are an excellent source of selenium which is needed to produce the active thyroid hormone. The antioxidants in these nuts have the ability to make an active enzyme that supports the thyroid, known as “triodithyronine”.
Selenium in Brazilian nuts is also beneficial for building the immune system and helps wounds to heal. Just 3 to 4 Brazil nuts a day can fulfill your entire selenium requirement.
According to medical research, selenium in these nuts also provides protection from heart diseases. This trace mineral activates the enzymes, thereby leading to detoxification of the rancid fat present in the membranes. Consumption of reasonable amount of selenium can also prevent blood clotting. Brazil nuts are also high in omega-6 fatty acids that can lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats lower the level of cholesterol, thus reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Just like almonds, Brazil nuts are also free from gluten and hence are often used in the preparation of gluten-free food formulas. These can be a healthy alternative for people who are allergic to wheat food or have celiac disease.
Brazil nuts are an excellent source of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) such as palmitoleic acid and oleic acid that help to lower LDL or “bad cholesterol” and increase HDL or “good cholesterol” in the blood. Monounsaturated fatty acids also prevent coronary artery disease and strokes by supporting a healthy blood lipid profile.
The minerals and vitamins present in Brazil nuts can reduce the risk of getting certain types of cancers such as prostate, colon, stomach, lung and breast cancers. The natural function of selenium in the human body facilitates glutathione, an enzyme that fights cancer-causing free radicals.
These nuts are also beneficial for those who get frequent cold and flu as they contain nutrients like Vitamin C, zinc and selenium which boost the immune system naturally, thus helping to fight off cold or flu.
Being a powerful antioxidant, selenium is known to protect the body from cellular damage by free radicals and improves male fertility.
Brazilian nuts can be beneficial in case of a very rare inherited disorder known as Acrodermatitis enteropathica in which the body fails to absorb sufficient amount of zinc from the diet, resulting in zinc deficiency. Brazil nuts contain high levels of zinc which helps to fulfill this deficiency.
These nuts are also beneficial for people with iodine deficiency and gastrointestinal disorders as they suffer from decreased absorption of selenium. Research has indicated that adequate selenium levels cause a reduction in the levels of breast and prostate cancer.
Apart from selenium, they contain other minerals such as copper, magnesium, manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorus and zinc. Copper prevents anemia and osteoporosis (bone weakness) whereas manganese is a co-factor for the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase.
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