Posts Tagged ‘health benefits’

Heart Healthy Walnuts & Almonds

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Almonds, also referred to as gourmet nut, are among the most nutritious tree nuts. They are classified as fruits and form a part of the stone fruit family. Almonds are rich in proteins, fiber, calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin E and other antioxidants and phytochemicals.

Almonds have many benefits for heart. They have a high protein content and hence they are very suitable for nourishment of skin and hair. The cholesterol level of a person can be reduced by 14% with regular consumption of almonds due to the presence of monounsaturated and some polyunsaturated fats. Over eating can be avoided by munching almonds before meals. They are also known to help in the prevention of colon cancer. Almonds have uncountable benefits for health, here some of them have been mentioned.

Walnuts trees are deciduous trees that are very hardy against drought. They are considered as a herb in traditional Chinese medicine. The nuts are rich in oil content and are widely eaten, both fresh and cooked. Walnut oil is expensive and consequently is used sparingly. Walnuts hav low content of saturated fat and are high in both polyunsaturated and mono-unsaturated fat.

They are an excellent source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, especially when they are bought in their shells and eaten fresh. Walnuts are rich protein, vitamin B1, B6, folate and vitamin E. Green and unripe walnuts are a good source of vitamin C. Regular intake of walnuts or almonds helps to reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood. They help to tonify kidneys, strengthen the back and knees. It is believed to stop asthma, but not acute asthma. It is also used by the elderly to relieve constipation. Walnuts decrease inflammation and reduce levels of substances that promote clogged arteries. Thus, intake of almonds and walnuts is beneficial for heart and their regular consumption will ensure a healthy life.

Sunday, September 13th, 2009

Health Benefits of Cashews

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Anacardium occidentale, the botanical name for cashew nut, is a bean shaped nut that grows on tropical evergreen trees. It has originated from Brazil and now its cultivated in many other countries. The raw cashews have to be roasted so as to remove the toxic resin that is present on the shell of the nut. This poisonous coat is related to poison ivy  which causes irritation and rashes when it is touched. Cashew nuts hav a high content of copper, magnesium and monounsaturated fats. The bark of the cashew tree is scraped and soaked overnight or boiled as an antidiarrheal. Seeds are ground into powders which is used as antivenom for snake bites.

The monounsaturated fat present in the nut help to promote cardiovascular health. Antioxidants found in cashew help to eliminate free radicals that may cause cancer. Cashews have magnesium that ensure healthy bones, helps to lower blood pressure and severity of asthma, and promotes normal sleep patterns in menopausal women. The presence of copper promotes iron utilization, development of bone and connective tissue and production of energy, skin and hair pigment.

Cashews, an energizing food, are good body builders that have no cholesterol. It also maintains healthy teeth and gums. The nut oil is used as an antifungal and also for healing cracked heels. Cashew nuts have also been known to reduce risk of gallstone disease.

The cashew nut is a popular snack and because of its rich flavor it is often eaten on its own, lightly sugared or salted. It can also be sold covered in chocolate. It is also ingredients in Thai cuisine, Chinese cuisine and  Indian cuisine. Apart from snacks, it can be grated so as to garnish dishes especially in India.

Sunday, September 13th, 2009