The perception that cashews are a fatty food and are bad for the heart is wrong. Here’s what science says about this:
1. ‘Good’ fat in cashews
Cashews contain mostly unsaturated fats. This helps reduce LDL, the bad cholesterol, in the body, and increases HDL, the good cholesterol. It contains healthy fat (oleic acid), the type found in olive oil.
2. Good for heart health
Cashews do not contain any cholesterol at all. The magnesium and potassium in them help control blood pressure. Studies show that eating cashews in the right amount four to five times a week reduces the risk of heart disease.
3. A storehouse of antioxidants
Cashews are rich in antioxidants that help reduce inflammation in the body. It protects the health of cells.
4. When is it dangerous?
Although cashews are healthy, they can be problematic if eaten incorrectly:
Fried and salted: Eating cashews that are fried in oil or have been overly salted can increase blood pressure and increase weight.
Excessive amounts: Since they are high-calorie foods, eating too much can lead to weight gain.
How to eat them?
Eating 4-5 cashews a day is best for health.
You can eat them raw or lightly roasted.
Avoid packaged cashews that are seasoned with salt and spices as much as possible.
