Brazil Nut Effectiveness
In addition to being a good source of protein, Brazil nuts are among the richest sources of selenium. One nut has 96 micrograms of this mineral, which is more than double the amount that adults need each day. This is important because selenium has been linked to thyroid hormone activity and DNA synthesis, according to the National Institutes of Health.
The dietary fiber in Brazil nuts helps ease the digestive process. The soluble fiber in them attracts water and helps to ease the movement of waste through your intestines, while the insoluble fiber helps promote regularity. Brazil nuts are also rich in the polyphenol ellagic acid, which is thought to help lower your risk of cancer.
Brazil nuts are a healthy snack that can help prevent heart disease by helping to lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Eating them can also help keep you feeling full and satisfied. However, you should talk to your doctor before adding them to your diet, especially if you are taking medication for your heart or if you have any allergies.
A study found that eating Brazil nuts daily significantly improved the lipid profile of people with high cholesterol and high blood pressure. The phenolic compounds in Brazil nuts, along with the monounsaturated fats they contain, appear to work together to reduce triglycerides and LDL cholesterol.
Selenium is an essential nutrient that helps the thyroid gland create and use its hormones. A deficiency of this mineral has been linked to thyroid conditions such as Hashimoto’s disease. In one study, patients who ate Brazil nuts had higher thyroid hormone levels than those who did not. Researchers believe that the selenium in Brazil nuts helps to increase T3 levels by binding with thyroxine and converting it into triiodothyronine.
The fatty acids in Brazil nuts are not only heart-healthy, but may also lower cholesterol levels and improve your insulin resistance, which is a major risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. They can also decrease your appetite, which may help you lose weight.
While Brazil nuts are a good source of protein, you should be careful about over-indulging in them, as they can be high in calories and sodium. If you’re eating them to meet your protein needs, be sure to include other protein-rich foods in your diet, such as lean meats, legumes and whole grains.
When purchasing Brazil nuts, make sure you look for those that are unprocessed and have a low salt content. Also, avoid roasted or fried Brazil nuts, which typically have added sugars and fats that can negatively impact your health. Always check nutrition facts and choose those with 0 grams of trans fats, as these are harmful to your heart health. You can find Brazil nuts that are labeled as “trans fat-free” or “low sodium.”