Brazilian nuts are technically seeds from the Bertholletia excelsa tree that grows commonly in The Amazon rainforest. They are considered one of the best sources of selenium. A single Brazilian nut contains between 70 and 90 mcg of selenium. Julian nuts are packed full of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber which are both beneficial. The RDA for selenium is about 55 µg for adults. Selenium is a mineral often found in soil.
• Brazilian nuts are one of the healthiest foods on the planet, packed with phytochemicals, proteins, and lots of healthy fats. Brazilian nuts also contain copper which helps to enhance bones.
• Help to stabilize thyroid hormone levels. Studies have shown that supplementing with selenium may improve thyroid function and delay the progression of some symptoms in people with this disease.
• Reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Help control blood sugars in patients with type two diabetes.
• Reduce inflammation. Brazilian nuts are rich in antioxidants, which are substances that help keep your cells healthy by combating damage caused by reactive molecules called free radicals.
What happens if I eat too many Brazilian nuts?
Excessive consumption of Brazilian nuts may result in brittle hair and nails, skin rashes, nerve damage, tremors, and diarrhea. Extremely high levels of selenium could result in health conditions that could lead to tremors and difficulty breathing.
How many can I have?
Remember that a single Brazilian nut contains more than 100% of the RDA for selenium. The upper limit of selenium, for example is 400 mcg per day. Additionally, they are an excellent source of vitamins, antioxidants, and other minerals. These are relatively large nuts, so having one or two per day should be sufficient to reap all the wonderful benefits of Brazilian nuts without running the risk of toxicity.
Are there additional health benefits of Brazilian nuts?
1. Cardiovascular health. Brazilian nuts are high in fiber and help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
2. Bone health. Brazilian nuts are high in both copper and phosphorus resulting in improved bone and dental health.
3. Improve brain function. These nuts are high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory which help to protect the brain from free radical damage. These nuts are awesome and rich in lecithin which is thought to improve the concentration of neurotransmitters.
4. Hair growth. Selenium helps to regulate proteins which results in proper/adequate hair growth.
Self-care tips:
Selenium deficiency was associated with worse outcomes in Covid-19 patients; supplementation may be helpful in preventing disease progression. Selenium also reduces the formation of thrombosis in the blood vessels; specifically micro-clots which are a significant cause of death in patients with Covid-19. Low levels of selenium is also associated with increased incidence of cancer and heart diseases. All the more reasons to add Brazil nuts to your regular diet.
Selenium may cause blood thinning so people planning surgical procedures should discontinue the use of selenium.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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