Cashew nuts or Kaju are technically not nuts but seeds. The scientific name of cashew nuts is Anacardium occidentale L., which belongs to the family Anacardiaceae. It is a popular ingredient in various Indian dishes and dairy alternatives like cream and cashew milk. They have a rich nutty flavour. Cashew nuts grow on evergreen trees, native to Brazil, which later expanded to South American countries. The Portuguese introduced cashew nuts in India and Africa in the 16th century. A single-seeded nut in a hard grey shell grows at the bottom of the cashew apple (a soft and juicy fruit). There are 33 varieties of cashew nuts identified, out of which only 26 varieties are marketed. The W-180 variety is known as the “king of cashews”. As for the nutritional composition, cashew nuts are rich in tocopherols, phytosterols, phenolic lipids and several bioactive compounds, all of which have several benefits on human health. 

There are various benefits of eating cashews. Nutrients and vitamins in cashews are helpful for the body because when added to a balanced diet it gives you an abundance of protein, good fats, vitamins, and minerals. Talking about the advantages of cashew, cashew nuts are also a strong source of antioxidants and help in lowering inflammation and enhancing cardiovascular health. But what happens if you eat cashews every day? What are the benefits of eating Kaju for skin, for females or for kids? If these are the questions on your mind, then we have answers for you. Let us take a look at the 10 surprising benefits of eating cashews.

1. Promote Heart Health

Cashew nuts are a good source of heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that can help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels which reduces the risk of heart diseases. They are also rich in antioxidants, magnesium, and potassium, which promote heart health. Consuming soaked kaju benefits your heart health when you incorporate it into your balanced diet. Roasted kaju can be a tasty and healthy snacking option for you.

You can include cashew nuts in your diet because they keep your heart healthy. 

2. Cashews Support Bone Health

Cashews are a rich source of magnesium, which is vital for bone health. You can reap the benefits of eating cashews if you suffer from bone or joint ailments. Cashews are also rich in magnesium which works with calcium and vitamin D to keep your bones strong and healthy. Eating cashew is good for health because Vitamin K in cashews help maintain your bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Include Tofu, made from organic soybeans in your diet for stronger bones apart from cashew nuts.

3. Boost The Immune System

Zinc, copper, and vitamin E are just a few of the minerals present in cashews that maintain a strong immune system. Immune cells require the minerals zinc and copper to grow and function. Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant, can shield cells from harm and reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Reap kaju benefits from a balanced diet that includes cashews for a stronger immune system. 

4. Helps in Weight Management

Because they are a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, cashew benefits can be noted for good weight management. The healthy fats and nutrients in cashew nuts keep you full for longer and reduce hunger pangs. However, cashew nuts are heavy in calories, therefore it’s important to eat them in moderation.

5. Improve Brain Function

Cashew nuts are rich in magnesium, vitamin E, and antioxidants that can help with brain function. Vitamin E in cashews improves the cognitive function of the brain and prevents age-related cognitive decline. Magnesium, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats also help enhance cognition and memory. Maintaining brain health is one of the important benefits of eating cashew nuts. 

6. Promote Healthy Skin

Do you know there are immense benefits of eating Kaju for the skin? Cashew nuts are rich in copper and thus can help boost collagen production which is essential for skin’s elasticity. Vitamin E and selenium present in cashews are excellent antioxidants that protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and against premature aging. Include a moderate amount of roasted kaju for healthy skin.

7. Regulate Blood Sugar

Cashew nuts have a low glycemic index that helps to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels. While the high fiber content in kaju benefits in slowing down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream, healthy fats improve insulin sensitivity. The benefits of eating cashew nuts along with a balanced diet can help you regulate blood sugar levels if you have diabetes or are at risk of developing diabetes. Include organic cashew nuts in your diet in moderation.

8. Reduce Inflammation

Cashew nuts are rich in Vitamin E which is a potent antioxidant. It helps to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Cashew nuts can also lower the risk of chronic diseases like sore teeth, ringworm, scurvy, leprosy, warts, and elephantiasis. Cashews have an abundance of magnesium which also helps in reducing inflammation.  

9. Improve Digestion

Due to their high fiber content, cashew nuts help in improved digestion by reducing constipation and improving regular bowel movements. Prebiotics, present in cashews, are a class of fiber that aids in the development of good gut flora. However, cashew nuts should be consumed in moderation, as consuming too much fiber can be uncomfortable for the digestive system.