Cashews:
The Delicious Nut with Impressive Health Benefits.
Cashews are more than just a tasty snack. These kidney-shaped nuts, native to Brazil but now cultivated widely across Africa and Asia, are packed with a remarkable range of nutrients and health benefits that make them a smart addition to most diets.
Organically Grown Cashews @EAFARMS:
Nutritional Powerhouse
Cashews are rich in essential nutrients. A one-ounce (about 28 grams) serving of cashews typically contains:
157 calories
5 grams of protein
13 grams of fat (mostly heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats)
9 grams of carbohydrates (including 1 gram of fiber)
Vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, and phosphorus.
They're also a good source of antioxidants like polyphenols and carotenoids, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Major Health Benefits of Cashews
1. Heart Health
The healthy fats in cashews — particularly monounsaturated fats — are known to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and increase HDL (good) cholesterol. Regular consumption of cashews has been linked to improved heart health and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
2. Bone Strength
Cashews are an excellent source of magnesium and phosphorus, two minerals crucial for maintaining strong, healthy bones. Copper in cashews also helps in maintaining collagen and elastin, key structural components of the body.
3. Weight Management
Though nuts are calorie-dense, studies show that moderate nut consumption can actually aid weight management. Cashews are satisfying and can help curb hunger due to their combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
4. Blood Health
Cashews contribute to healthy blood through their iron and copper content. Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood, while copper helps the body use iron more effectively and supports the development of red blood cells.
5. Eye Protection
Cashews contain small but valuable amounts of antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are known to protect the eyes from damage, including age-related macular degeneration.
6. Boosted Immunity
The zinc in cashews plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy immune system. Regular consumption can help support the body’s ability to fight off infections and heal wounds.
How to Enjoy Cashews:
Cashews are incredibly versatile:
Snack on them raw or roasted.
Blend them into creamy sauces or vegan cheeses.
Sprinkle them on salads, stir-fries, or oatmeal.
Use cashew butter as a spread for a nutrient-dense treat.
When choosing cashews, opt for unsalted and unroasted varieties when possible to minimize added sodium and oils.
A Note of Caution:
Cashews contain natural substances called anacardic acids that can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, much like other tree nuts. Also, moderation is key, as overeating cashews can lead to excessive calorie intake.
At EA Farms, we have an unwritten agreement with the birds and the squirrels.
They have to help with the harvesting of cashews. They eat the fruits and leave the nuts.
They have been enjoying the deal, looking at the harvest every day - that's the objective of EAFARMS - an environmental safe haven for flora and fauna.
Cashews are not just delicious - they’re a treasure trove of health benefits. Whether you're looking to boost your heart health, strengthen your bones, or just enjoy a satisfying snack, organically grown cashews make a smart and tasty choice. As with all good things, enjoy them in moderation and savor their natural goodness.
