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How Cashews Help Promote a Healthy Lifestyle
Nutrient Content
Vitamins
Good Source of:
- Vitamin K – 12%
Also a Source of:
- Thiamin – 8%
- Vitamin B6 – 6%
Minerals
Excellent Source of:
- Copper – 31%
- Manganese – 23%
- Magnesium – 20%
Good Source of:
- Phosphorus – 17%
- Zinc – 11%
- Iron – 10%
Also a Source of:
- Selenium – 8%
- Potassium – 5%
Other
Good Source of:
- Protein – 10%
Also a Source of:
- Fiber – 4%
- Mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids
*All nutritional Info From (1)
How Cashews Prevent Chronic Disease
Nuts are generally high in vitamins and minerals, and in addition to these nutrients, cashews contain healthy fats that reduce risk of certain chronic diseases.
How Cashews Help Prevent Cardiovascular Disease
In one study, cashew consumption significantly reduced blood pressure. Hypertension puts strain on the arteries as they move blood throughout the body. Correcting high blood pressure is important for avoiding major cardiac events including heart attack and stroke. (2)
Cholesterol levels are used as measures of heart disease risk. Specifically, LDL cholesterol is considered adverse cholesterol because it can collect on the arterial walls as plaque. Consumption of 28 to 64 grams of cashews per day may decrease total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels in adults, significantly reducing risk of cardiovascular disease. (3)
In addition, cashews are a good source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which improve markers of cardiovascular disease including abnormal blood pressure, inflammation, and blood vessel functionality. (4)
How Cashews Help Prevent Cancer
Nuts are high in a diverse array of antioxidants, bioactive compounds that neutralize free radicals that can otherwise damage cells and tissue and cause cancer. Eating a diverse array of nuts, including cashews, can help prevent and reverse oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
In one study, higher nut consumption was inversely associated with risk of lung cancer, meaning nut intake helped protect study subjects from lung cancer and potential death. (5)
Cashews Promote a Number of Health Benefits
Cashews and Bone Health
Cashews are a good source of Vitamin K. Through still unknown mechanisms, Vitamin K promotes bone integrity and health. Vitamin K intake has been associated with reduced rates of both bone fractures and bone diseases like osteoporosis. (6)
Cashews and Immune Health
Cashews are an excellent source of copper. Copper is a component part of essential enzymes in the immune system. Deficiencies are linked to increased risk of infection and lower immune response to foreign bodies. (7)