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Nuts are some of the healthiest and most satisfying snacks you’ll find anywhere in the world and there are dozens of different types to choose from. However, one of my absolute favorite nuts is the mighty cashew. Cashew nuts are sourced from the cashew tree, a tropical plant native to Brazil. Boasting delicious flavors and numerous health benefits, it's no surprise that cashews have gained such popularity among snack-lovers and culinary professionals alike. You may know cashews as a great-tasting snack or a good way to make a plant-based cream, but here are some of the other many amazing benefits of cashews that you might not be aware of!
1. They're Known to Lower Cholesterol Levels and Support Heart Health
Many people struggle to keep their cholesterol at a healthy level because of dietary habits and genetics. Research shows that cashews help to decrease total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels, which ultimately supports a healthy heart and cardiovascular system. Studies show diets that are rich in tree nuts, including cashew nut, are consistently linked to helping lower the risk of heart disease. Along with lowering total and LDL cholesterol levels, other studies link cashew nut consumption to lower blood pressure as well. Since high cholesterol leads to many other serious conditions, eating a few cashews a day is a great preventive measure for long-term health.
2. They're a Good Snack Options to Help Control and Manage Diabetes
Another huge benefit of cashews is how these nuts help control and manage diabetes when eaten as part of a healthy diet. There is strong evidence to suggest that the bioactive components of these nuts help manage diabetes because of how they affect glucose and insulin responses and reduce inflammation. Better yet, eating cashews can help prevent the onset of diabetes because of their inflammation-reducing properties.
3. They're Packed with Nutrients That Can Help Prevent Certain Chronic Diseases
Cashews are also rich in many of the vitamins that keep chronic diseases away, including B-complex vitamins, vitamin E, vitamin D, magnesium, zinc and phosphorous. Cashews are also packed with fiber, protein and iron to provide an even more well-rounded nutrient profile to fight chronic disease and support a healthy immune system. Obesity is a major cause of chronic disease and consuming cashews can help prevent obesity by helping you feel fuller longer, while curbing unhealthy food cravings.
4. They're Rich in Minerals That Support Bone Health
Something that many people don’t realize about cashews is that they also help to maintain good bone health. This is because cashews contain potassium, calcium, magnesium and vitamin K—all of which support strong, healthy bones. By adding more cashews to your diet, you can help reduce your risk of breaks, sprains and osteoporosis later in life.
5. They Provide Brain-Boosting Benefits
I also love cashews because of their brain-boosting benefits that help you think clearer and feel more positive. Your brain is largely made up of fat, which means that it needs healthy fats, like the ones contained in cashews, to function well. Deficiencies in the minerals of iron, zinc and copper can lead to anxiety and depression, but fortunately, cashews contain these mental health-boosting minerals, too.
6. Not All Cashews Are Created Equal
Despite the amazing benefits of cashews, it’s important to remember that not all cashews are created equal. Navitas Organics Cashew Nuts are processed with the ultimate care and undergo a low-heat extraction process. This ensures that all the cashews’ incredible nutrients, healthy fats and delicious flavors are preserved for your snacking pleasure. To see just how versatile cashews really are in smoothies, salads, stir-fries, trail mixes and desserts, try our favorite cashew recipes or create your own homemade cashew milk and cashew butter.
