Brazil nut: everything you need to know

Brazil nut - edible seed from the fruit of the Brazil nut tree.

The tree with the species name Bertholletia excelsa is a large tropical evergreen tree that originates from the Amazon River forests.

The fruit is round with a thick hard shell and contains between 18 and 24 seeds or kernels, which also have a woody, wrinkled shell.

You can find peeled and unpeeled seeds and eat them fresh.

The Brazil nut is an excellent source of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. It is the benefits of the Brazil nut that you will find in this article on"mybiopedia.com"

In addition, it is very caloric, so you should probably limit yourself to just a few nuts a day. The health benefits of Brazil nuts include reducing inflammation in the body, improving heart health, regulating weight and more. Read the full article to find out what are the other benefits of eating these nuts regularly.

#1 Brazil nut supports thyroid health

The thyroid gland has the highest selenium content compared to any other organ in the body. Selenium binds to other molecules in the gland and helps the body create and use thyroid hormones.

Research has linked thyroid problems to selenium deficiency. Studies have also shown that people with thyroid disorders can increase their selenium intake by supplementing with Brazil nut.

#2 May Help Prevent Heart Disease

Brazil nuts contain calcium, potassium, and magnesium. These three minerals help regulate blood pressure. In addition, the soluble fiber in the nuts can help lower LDL cholesterol levels.

The antioxidants in Brazil nuts reduce free radical damage and reduce the risk of heart disease.

#3 Fight inflammation | Brazil nut

Like most other nuts, Brazil nuts contain mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids that help fight inflammation. The selenium in the nuts also helps fight inflammation.

Studies have found that eating just one Brazil nut a day may have anti-inflammatory benefits. Even one serving of Brazil nuts has been found to reduce long-term inflammation

#4. Brazil nut - may help treat cancer

The selenium in Brazil nuts can be used to reduce cancer risk and improve treatment outcomes. The ellagic acid in the nuts has been found to exhibit anticancer and antimutagenic properties.

#5 Brazil nut - assist in weight loss process

Brazil nuts are rich in fiber that can make you feel full and discourage overeating. The nuts are also rich in arginine, an amino acid that can aid weight loss by promoting increased energy expenditure and fat burning.

The selenium in Brazil nuts is involved in many metabolic processes. It keeps your metabolism working efficiently and this helps in burning maximum calories.

#6 Strengthen immunity

Selenium in nuts carries messages from various immune cells that ultimately coordinate the right immune response. Without selenium, this may not happen as effectively. Another mineral in Brazil nuts, zinc, also boosts immunity and destroys pathogens.

#7 Brazil nut - supports brain health

One study found that older adults who consumed just one Brazil nut a day for six months saw better verbal abilities and spatial skills.

The selenium in the nuts boosts antioxidant activity and protects the brain from damage.

The ellagic acid in the nuts has anti-inflammatory effects that can protect the brain. Selenium can also boost mood and help prevent depression.

The mineral has been shown to increase serotonin levels, leading to better mood.

#8 Help with digestion

Brazil nut is a source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber attracts water, turning into a gel and slowing digestion.

Insoluble fiber adds volume to the stool and helps food pass through the stomach and intestines.

#9 Increase testosterone levels

Studies confirm the link between selenium, zinc and testosterone. Men who have been infertile have also been found to have low selenium levels.

#10 Brazil nut - improves sexual health

Nuts play a role in hormonal health. Selenium supplementation has been found to improve sperm count and sperm motility. These nuts can also help treat erectile dysfunction.

#11 Helps treat acne

Selenium in nuts improves skin elasticity and relieves redness and inflammation. The mineral also helps in the formation of glutathione, which neutralizes free radicals that cause acne.

#12 Contribute to hair growth

Selenium deficiency can lead to hair loss. This is because the mineral helps your body process the proteins needed for hair growth.