Cashews - 7 useful properties, taste, how does it grow?

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Cashews - 7 useful properties, taste, how does it grow?
Cashews - 7 useful properties, taste, how does it grow?
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Cashews: benefits and harms, how much can you eat?

Cashew is the fruit of the Anacardium occidentalis tree, also known as the Indian walnut. It grows in Brazil. This country is his home. Artificial trees are grown in Africa, India, Asia, Iran, Azerbaijan.

Cashew nuts are the only ones in the world that ripen on the outside of the fruit. They are distinguished by a unique composition, which includes a list of almost all vitamins and microelements known to man. In addition, Brazil nuts, as cashews are also called, are a source of monounsaturated fats, esters and phytosterols. Its regular use in food allows you to normalize metabolic processes in the body, increase libido, strengthen the cardiovascular system, stabilize the hormonal and psycho-emotional background.

What does a cashew look like and how does it taste?

Cashew nuts
Cashew nuts

In our latitudes, cashew remains one of the most expensive types of exotic nuts. The thing is that it is not possible to grow it in Russia and European countries. Despite this, cashews occupies a leading position among lovers of dried fruits and nuts due to their delicate taste and invaluable benefits.

Edible is the kernel, which is hidden under a rough shell. The average weight of one nut is 1.5 g. It has an elongated shape that looks like a comma.

The taste of the nut is sweet, oily with light hints of vanilla. After consumption, the nut does not leave a specific aftertaste. Thanks to this unusual combination, cashews are eaten as a separate product and added to various dishes.

A little history of the cashew tree

The name "cashew" came to us from Portugal, where the nut was exported in huge volumes from its historical homeland - Brazil. This fact contributes to the fact that the plant and fruits are called Brazil or tree nuts. Cashew trees stay green all year round. In places of natural growth, their height reaches 30 meters. Surprisingly, with such dimensions, the tree has a rather short trunk. The branches are very long, because the crown is striking in its size - it is so spreading that it can reach the same dimensions in diameter as in height. The tree resembles a huge green ball.

The only cashew tree in the world grows in Brazil, which has grown over two hectares of land. The fact is that in a plant of the Piranji variety, the lower branches bend to the very ground and germinate into the soil with roots. The tree in question was planted at the end of the 19th century and in 130 years it has grown to an incredible size.

Cashew leaves are leathery, shiny, deep green. The shape resembles an oval or an egg. The size of the leaves can be different - from 4 to 22 cm in length and from 2 to 15 cm in width. Cashew flowers are not particularly attractive in appearance - small yellow-pink, rather faded, but very fragrant. They form numerous inflorescences in the form of panicles up to 20 cm long. In Brazil, the flowering of cashew trees occurs twice a year, and in India - three times a year.

After 8-9 weeks after fragrant flowering, unusual fruits up to 12 cm in size appear. Their color depends on the cashew variety and can be yellow, red or orange. The shape of the fruit is a cross between a pear, apple and paprika. They look like fruits, but are pseudo-fruits. Locals who grow cashews use these fruits for food. Pseudo-fruits have a juicy, but dense, fibrous structure and are distinguished by a specific sour-astringent taste. Juices, jams, all kinds of tinctures are prepared from them, or eaten raw.

The real fruits, which we call cashew nuts, appear at the end of the "cashew apple". They are covered with two shells - inner smooth and outer, dense, rough. Hidden inside this natural package is a delicious kernel that can weigh up to 12 grams.

How do cashews grow?

How cashews grow
How cashews grow

The historical homeland of cashews is Brazil, but the plant also thrives in India, Vietnam, Iran, Southeast and West Africa, and Azerbaijan. The largest plantations are located in Vietnam - 1/3 of all nuts in the world are harvested here. In general, about three million tons of cashews are produced during the year.

The tree on which the nut grows is evergreen. An artificially grown trunk can reach a height of 15 m, and in its natural habitat it reaches 30 m. The crown is spreading, flowering occurs 1 to 3 times a year.

When the flowers wither, bright yellow and orange-red fruit buds form in their place. They are better known as cashew apples. Their flesh is juicy and aromatic. In Brazil, cashew apples are eaten, compotes and juices are made from them. After some time, a nut is formed at the end of each "pseudo-fruit". This is the true fruit of the tree - cashews. Outside, the nuts are covered with a green shell containing a high concentration of poisonous phenolic resins. The edible fruit is right below it.

Harvested nuts are subjected to processing that ensures the preservation of taste. The process takes place in a certain sequence:

  • To begin with, the seeds are dipped in boiling water for 30 minutes. This will help harden the top shell and make it easier to remove.
  • At the second stage, the cashews are placed in special ovens with a temperature of 70°C. After that, the inner shell is exfoliated.
  • A sorting step is required to separate nuts by size and weight.
  • Glazing or flavoring is an optional step, but quite acceptable for creating a certain type of product.
  • Packaging.

When choosing cashews, look for whole nuts that last much longer. Never eat dried or moldy kernels. Cashews are poured into a container, tightly closed with a lid. In this form, they can be stored for about 3-4 weeks. If you put the container in the refrigerator, the shelf life is extended to 6 months. Cashews can be frozen, which retains its beneficial properties for up to 12 months. It is important to remember that high temperatures cause the release of oil, which gives the nut a bitter taste.

Why don't they sell cashew nuts in shell?

Dense cashew shell is inedible, moreover, it contains toxic substances. Phenolic resin and cardola are aggressive compounds that cause chemical burns. Workers who harvest the nuts always use gloves and are given special instructions on how to follow safety rules before starting work.

Cashew shells are used for the production of adhesives, emulsions, rubber, so that all the constituent elements of the nut are consumed with virtually no waste.

How and where cashews are harvested and processed:

Benefits of cashews for the body

The amazing he alth benefits of cashews are due to their rich composition. The value of the tree nut became known after studying the traditional medicine recipes used by the locals of Brazil, Africa and India to this day.

Numerous studies have confirmed that cashews:

  • Stimulates the protective functions of the body.
  • Restores normal myocardial function.
  • Has an antiviral effect.
  • Increases the mineralization of the bones of the skeleton, teeth.
  • Improves memory function.
  • Normalizes the functioning of the central nervous system.
  • Suppresses the growth of tumor cells.
  • Improves blood quality.
  • Strengthens the body after operations and serious illnesses.

Substances that are part of cashew nuts help strengthen the vascular membranes. The oil structure provides elasticity, soothes the symptoms of inflammation.

New results of numerous studies give hope that medicines based on the active components of cashews will help to defeat a number of diseases:

  • Atherosclerosis.
  • Immune deficiency.
  • The effects of stress.
  • Insomnia.
  • Sexual impotence.
  • Infertility.
  • Dermatitis of various origins.
  • Diabetes mellitus.
  • Asthma.

Nuts contain a minimum concentration of sugar, but a lot of fiber, protein and valuable fats. Nutrients contribute to energy production, improve the condition of cells of different tissues.

Composition and calorie content

Nuts are a source of carotenoids and polyphenols, which also belong to the group of powerful antioxidants. Their intake in the body helps to reduce the level of oxidative stress.

  • Fat: 43.3g
  • Proteins: 18.2 g
  • Carbs: 30.8g
  • Water: 5.2g
  • Ash: 2.5g
  • Fiber: 3.6g
Vitamins Quantity % RDA
Gamma Tocopherol 5, 31mg 35%
Vitamin B1 (thiamine) 0, 42-0.5mg 33%
Vitamin PP (nicotinic acid) 5, 85mg 30%
Vitamin K 34, 1 mcg 28%
Biotin 13, 1 mcg 26%
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) 0, 42mg 21%
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) 0.86mg 17%
Choline 61mg 12%
Minerals (per 100g): Quantity %RDA
Copper 2100-2200 mcg 244%
Silicon 60mg 200%
Vanadium 30 mcg 75%
Cob alt 7, 3 mcg 73%
Manganese 1200-1660 mcg 72%
Magnesium 270-292mg 70%
Phosphorus 490-593mg 68%
Zinc 5600-5780 mcg 47%
Iron 6-6, 68mg 42%
Molybdenum 29, 7 mcg 42%
Strontium 225 mcg 28%
Bor 18 mcg 26%
Potassium 553-660mg 24%
Selenium 11, 7-19, 9mcg 22%

Full chemical composition ➤

Other important connections:

  • Phytosterols - 158-184mg (307.3% RDA)
  • Purines - 13mg (10% RDA)
  • Oxalic Acid - 262mg (65.5% RDA)

Useful properties of cashews

Beneficial features
Beneficial features

1 Reduces bad cholesterol

At the beginning of a conversation about the beneficial properties of cashews, you should start with the heart and blood vessels. The quality of the vascular wall is affected by the level of cholesterol. Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which are contained in nuts, align the blood lipid formula. Therapeutic nutrition aimed at increasing the level of high-density lipoproteins should include cashews in a volume of at least 10% of the total daily amount of food [1]

A study involving hypertensive patients showed that the systematic use of cashew nuts reduces triglycerides. The participants of the experiment noted the normalization of blood pressure [2].

Triglycerides present in the lipid profile have an aggressive effect on the vessels and membranes of the heart. In order to reduce the risk of developing heart disease and stroke, it is recommended to introduce from 30 to 100 grams of cashew nuts into the daily diet for a period of 1 to 3 months. During this time, a normal lipid profile is formed - high HDL levels and low LDL levels [3]

2 Reduces blood sugar

Cashew nuts are high in fiber. It has the unique ability to regulate blood glucose levels. Eating a nut reduces the likelihood of sudden changes in sugar levels, which is directly related to the formation of type II diabetes.

A laboratory study of blood tests of patients with type II diabetes showed that eating cashews helps to reduce total insulin. In comparison with the indicators of the control group, in the experimental sample, the results of this marker were much lower. It is noted that it is enough to replace only 10% of the daily required amount of calories with cashew nuts for optimal results [4]

Despite the characteristic sweet taste, cashews are low in sugar. Of the total amount of carbohydrates, they make up only 25%, of which the majority is completely digestible fiber. People with diabetes are recommended to replace the usual sugar with cashew nuts in order to lower the concentration of glucose in the blood [5]

Laboratory data have opened up the prospect of using cashew nuts in the complex of dietary nutrition in type II diabetes mellitus. Low sugar levels and a high content of vegetable fibers contribute to the normalization of blood glucose and are an excellent preventive measure against the development of diabetes.

3 Protects against gallstones

Recently, the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found evidence that regular cashew intake improves gallbladder he alth and reduces the likelihood of gallbladder removal. The publication was based on the results of a large-scale study.

A million participants have been observed over 20 years. It turned out that the sample that received at least 140 grams of cashews per week had a minimal likelihood of cholecystectomy, in contrast to the group that consumed less than 28 grams of cashews per week [6].

4 Strengthens bones

It has long been known that not only calcium and phosphorus are involved in bone mineralization. One of the main elements of bone tissue is copper. A drop in copper levels increases the risk of osteoporosis. Cashew is the record holder among nuts in terms of copper. 28 grams of nuts contain 633 micrograms of this valuable trace element. An adult over 19 years of age requires about 900 mcg of copper per day, that is, 56 g of cashews fully meets the needs of the body.

Copper is necessary for the synthesis of its own collagen, the formation of elastin fibers. With a deficiency of copper, the processes of regeneration of connective tissue, the production of collagen, which is necessary for the normal functioning of the musculoskeletal system, are disrupted. Against the background of these processes, the risk of joint problems increases. In severe cases, the person suffers from bone destruction.

In addition to copper, cashews contain a lot of magnesium and manganese, which interact with calcium and participate in the formation of bone tissue. A sufficient level of all components is the main condition for the prevention of osteoporosis. The ability of cashews to influence bone density and mineralization is currently being studied.

5 Other He alth Benefits of Cashews

  • Cashews are a source of copper and iron, which are essential for people suffering from anemia.
  • Nuts help maintain the beauty of hair and nails. This is possible due to the fact that they contain copper, which is involved in the production of melanin (the pigment that gives color to hair, eyes and skin). A sufficient amount of melanin protects the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays, and also prevents the development of skin cancer.
  • Cashew prevents premature aging of cells. It contains antioxidants that fight free radicals that damage young he althy cells.
  • Walnut improves brain function due to the presence of useful fatty acids in its composition. The effect is enhanced by components such as: copper, manganese, iron, zinc. Their beneficial properties for cognitive functions have long been known to science.
  • Cashews protect eyes from ultraviolet radiation as they contain lutein and zeaxanthin. This reduces the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
  • Cashew from migraine. The inclusion of nuts in the diet can make migraine attacks less intense and rare. Magnesium, which is part of the nut, relaxes blood vessels. However, people with hypersensitivity to tyramine should use cashews with caution, as they, on the contrary, have an increased risk of headaches.
  • Cashews to support thyroid function. Nuts contain selenium, which protects this important organ from oxidative stress and also ensures its proper functioning. Therefore, the product must be present in the diet of women.

Benefits for women

Benefits for Women
Benefits for Women

1 Helps in weight loss

Traditionally, nutritionists do not recommend introducing nuts into the diet for those who want to lose weight. This is due to the fact that nut kernels are saturated with fats and are a very high-calorie product. Fortunately, scientific research has disproved this belief.

Observation was carried out in two groups of subjects. In the first, participants received a fairly large amount of nuts daily, and in the second, nuts were completely excluded from the diet. After a certain period of time, control measurements were carried out. It turned out that in the first group, the weight of the participants did not increase, but on the contrary, some even decreased. In the control group, weight loss was not recorded at all [7]

Scientists explained this by saying that the cashew nuts that the experimental group received contained much fewer calories than according to outdated data. It turned out that there are only 157 calories per 28 grams of tree nuts - this is the lowest ratio among all types of nuts. The data soon appeared in the official FoodData guidelines of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Someone might say that after all, such a number of calories is a lot, how can you lose weight by eating cashews? The answer is much simpler than it seems. The thing is that out of the total calorie content of cashew nuts, the body absorbs no more than 84%. It turned out that most of the vegetable fats remain inside the nut shell and do not pass through the human digestive tract [8]

However, once glazed or roasted, cashews become more digestible. Therefore, it should be consumed raw. Of course, the antioxidant qualities in this case are reduced, since substances that can resist free radicals are formed during roasting. In general, the choice is up to the consumer - what goal he pursues.

We must not forget that cashew nuts are rich in protein and plant fiber fiber. These natural ingredients always suppress the feeling of hunger. With the help of cashews, it is possible to correct eating behavior, which will definitely help in weight loss.

Cashews are less caloric than other types of nuts. Due to the high content of protein and fiber, they provide a feeling of satiety for a long time, suppress appetite. Proper use of cashews helps to lose extra pounds.

2 During Pregnancy

Folic acid, which is rich in cashew nuts, is the main element for pregnant women. The use of the dose of nuts recommended by the gynecologist-obstetrician will provide the central nervous system of the fetus with the necessary vitamin B9, help in the formation and development.

3 Skin and hair care

Beauticians consider cashews a panacea for many problems. Walnut oil is added to cosmetics, creams, shampoos, masks, and skin care formulations are prepared with it.

Cashew butter is used for:

  • Smoothing mimic wrinkles.
  • Improve complexion.
  • Treating hair loss and brittle hair.
  • Prevention of early gray hair.
  • Eliminate brittle nails.
  • Healing of microtraumas on the skin of the hands.
  • Eliminate foci of inflammation on the skin.
  • Removal of warts, freckles, age spots.
  • Exfoliating the top layer of the epidermis by scrubbing the skin.

In tattoo parlors, cashew oil is used to apply drawings on various parts of the body.

Other ways to use cashews

Other Ways to Use Cashews
Other Ways to Use Cashews

Inedible cashew nut shells are used to produce oil-Kazhu "cardoyle". After several cycles of cleaning and processing, it becomes an element of medicinal and cosmetic preparations.

In pharmaceutics oil seems to be valued for its therapeutic qualities:

  • Decontamination.
  • Wound healing.
  • Suppression of throat infections.
  • Normalization of digestion.
  • Pain relief.
  • Softening hardened tissues.
  • Toning.
  • The ability to rejuvenate cells.
  • Nourish depleted tissues.

The nutritional composition of cashews helps debilitated patients, patients after chemotherapy and radiation.

It is impossible not to remember that cashews are one of the favorite products of cooks and confectioners. Nuts are widely used in sweet pastries, cakes, chocolate, and desserts. Cashew stuffed fish. It is used to prepare a delicious side dish for meat dishes, combined with seafood.

How many cashews can you eat a day?

The safe daily allowance for cashews is approximately 30 grams, which is equivalent to 15 nuts. This is enough to get the most out of the product.

Recommended amount of nuts varies by age, so children aged 3 to 5 are allowed to eat 5 pieces. For teenagers, the daily dosage of cashews has been increased to 8 nuts.

How to choose and store cashews?

How to choose
How to choose

To choose high-quality and fresh nuts, you need to focus on the following indicators:

  • Aroma. It should be pleasant, sweetish. If the nut smells bitter, don't buy it.
  • Color. Quality cashews are tan or golden when roasted. When raw, it has a creamy hue.
  • Mattiness. Don't buy cashews with a glossy sheen or floury finish.
  • Clean. Nuts must be free from mold or other signs of deterioration.
  • Damages. Stains on cashews indicate expired.

When traveling around the countries where the nut grows, one should not miss the opportunity to purchase a fresh and he althy product.

Keep nuts in a glass jar or in paper at room temperature. Do not expose the product to direct sunlight. The shelf life of cashews is 3 months. Raw, it can be stored in the freezer. There it will stay fresh for a year. For frying it can be taken in small portions. As a result, there will always be a useful and usable product on the table.

Harm cashews and contraindications

Cashew harm and contraindications
Cashew harm and contraindications

The most common side effect of eating cashews is allergic reactions. In people with hypersensitivity to nuts, severe forms of allergies are possible - up to anaphylactic shock, laryngeal edema. Constipation and dyspeptic disorders in the form of excessive gas formation are also possible.

Among the contraindications to the use of cashews, it should be noted:

  • Children under 3 years old.
  • History of severe allergies.
  • Increased sensitivity to any nuts.
  • Acute period of gastritis.
  • Severe gastric ulcer.
  • Urolithiasis.

If this is the first time you want to eat cashews, try 2-3 nuts and listen to your feelings. In the absence of negative effects on the skin and the digestive system, the dose may be increased.

In any case, the amount of cashew nuts consumed should not exceed 150 grams per week. Exceeding this dose can cause liver problems.

If you are using unroasted cashews in any food, it is recommended to soak them in water first. A simple procedure promotes the elimination of phytates - substances that block the absorption of valuable vitamins and minerals.

Be aware that fresh fruits contain poison. Upon contact with the skin, it provokes inflammation. Therefore, nuts must be dried before eating. Raw or unshelled cashews are never sold, they go through at least 4 stages of processing in production.

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