Nuts are our best friends, keep us energetic and provide us with all essential nutrients for leading a healthy life. Cashews, almonds, pistachios, peanuts, walnuts have become a staple of sorts in our daily menu but if you are looking forward to adding some more crunch to your diet regimen, try Macadamia nuts.

These off-white nuts with a tinge of pink and orange come from Macadamia tree that are indigenous to Australia. Also known as Queensland Nut, Bush Nut, Maroochi Nut, Bauple Nut and Hawaii Nut, these mildly salty nuts are a rich source of various essential nutrients.

High on thiamine, vitamin B6, iron, manganese, magnesium, phosphorous, Macadamia nuts consist a whopping amount of 9 percent fibre, 8 percent protein besides ample amounts of monosaturated fats. Also known as ‘Mac Nuts’, these creamy textured nuts contain less than 1 per cent of natural sugars and are quite low on glycemic index foods.

In the recent years, Macadamia nuts have become quite popular and are widely available in India. Eat them raw, toss it in your salad or soup or blend with your smoothies to derive its numerous health benefits.

Macadamia Nuts For Health:

Improves Brain Function:

Regular intake of Macadamia nuts helps in preventing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Loaded with a type of vitamin E called tocotrienols, these nuts shield brain cells from the effects of glutamate – an anion of glutamic acid that may lead to various degenerative brain conditions. These nuts also protect the brain from various types of oxidative stress.

Protects Heart:

Macadamia nuts contain abundant reserves of MUFAs (monounsaturated fatty acids), which are healthy fats. These fatty acids aid in lowering the levels of low-density lipoprotein or bad cholesterol and triglycerides and ups the level of good cholesterol. Consumption of these nuts prevents formation of clots in the blood vessels and reduces the risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Disease-Fighting Power:

‘Mac Nuts’ are a powerhouse of flavonoids that aid in fighting free radicals and prevent cell damage. The antioxidants released into the blood stream help in boosting immunity thus providing enough strength and energy for the body in fighting various infections.

Bone Strength:

Macadamia nuts are a natural source of vital minerals like calcium, magnesium and potassium, which play a major role in strengthening the bones. Eat these to prevent bone deterioration, build bone density, and to provide enough calcium.

Prevents Obesity:

Besides monosaturated fats, Macadamia nuts are high on Palmitoleic acid, protein, fiber and various other nutrients that can make you feel full for longer hours. These nuts also prevent sudden spike in sugar levels and are beneficial for those suffering from type-2 diabetes.