The Health Benefits of Cashews

The health benefits of cashew nuts are numerous. The cashew nut contains important nutrients such as copper, manganese, tryptophan, magnesium and phosphorus. The cashew tree is native to Northeastern Brazil, but is enjoyed by people from all around the world.



The copper found in cashew nuts is an important component of many enzymes and also plays an important role in many bodily functions such as iron utilization, elimination of toxic free radical molecules, the development of bone and connective tissue, and the production of skin and hair. Copper is also important for energy production.

The manganese found in cashew nuts is extremely important for healthy bones. It is also important for regulating nerve and muscle tone and helps keep our muscles relaxed.

The tryptophan found in cashew nuts is one of the 20 essential amino acids and the body uses tryptophan to make serotonin. Serotonin is thought to result in healthy sleep and a stable mood. Therefore, if you want to get a good night's sleep then you should consider having a small handful of cashews before going to bed.

The magnesium fond in cashews is important for several different reasons. Not having enough magnesium in your diet can contribute to high blood pressure, muscle cramps and fatigue which makes eating cashews extremely important.

The phosphorus found in cashew nuts is also extremely important for human health and is the most abundant mineral in the human body. It works together with calcium to build strong bones and strong teeth. In addition, phosphorus helps filter out waste in the kidneys and plays an essential role in how the body uses energy. 

Phosphorus also helps reduce muscle pain after a hard work out which is why you might consider eating a handful of cashews after working out. Other functions that phosphorus is needed for include growth, maintenance, and repair of tissues and cells. It also protects the genetic building blocks of life which are DNA and RNA.


You may be interested to know that Portuguese settlers spread cashew seeds to the east coast of Africa where the plants immediately took to the land after being originally grown in Brazil. In addition, unlike other nuts and seeds cashews do not grow within the fruit but instead grow on the outside of it. It hangs from the base of a crab apple called the cashew apple. Either way, the cashew nut is certainly a healthy snack for all to enjoy.