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Cashew Nuts (Anacardium occidentale)

Botanically, the genuine fruit is the nut. The apple is a pseudofruit. The edible portion is the kernal (cashew nut). The cashew apple is used as a fresh fruit or made into juice, jams, chutneys or jellies in some countries. The thin skin, and fast decomposition of the apple, makes it difficult to transport.

The top commercial producers of cashews are India, Vietnam, Brazil, Mozambique, Tanzania and Nigeria.

Nutrition and Health Cashews are high in copper and also contain zinc, magnesium and manganese.

Cultivation The cashew tree grows in the tropics and subtropics requiring high humidity and fertile soil. Linked to the mango and pistachio the cashew can grow to a height of 15 metres and may bear fruit in the second year, be productive in the fourth year, and reach maximum yields in around ten years.

The outer shell is green and leathery and turns an orange red when mature. The inner shell is hard, similar to other nut shells, and has the edible kernal. The oil enclosed in the nut's shell (cashew nut shell liquid or CNSL (anacardic acid)) is toxic and can burn the skin. It is utilized in producing plastics and as lubrication and insecticide.

Cashews are hand picked, the nuts are separated from the fruit and then dried in the sun. The nuts are then roasted to remove the oil, shelled, peeled, graded and ultimately packaged.

Tired of fried, salty, sodium-laden and unhealthy snacks that leave you feeling fat and bloated?

Rest easy, we have the perfect snack you’ve been waiting for! Naturally dehydrated and packed with Heart-Healthy Macadamia Nuts, Mix of Other Raw Nuts, Energy Rich Seed Kernels and Beneficial Dried Fruits, SNAX is Nature’s answer to your current snacking woes.

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MACADAMIA NUT TREE INFORMATION

OUTLINE Neal (1965) describes the macadamia nut tree as a fast growing, regular-shaped, medium-sized tree with heavy, dark green foliage. Leaves develop in whorls of three, paired, or in fours. The leaves are rarely solitary. The leaves are blunt tipped, oblong, 1 foot in length or more, edged with fine teeth, and the petioles are about half an inch in length. The flowers are small, whitish, tasseled, and grow on long spikes. The nuts ripen in the fall, both the fall and spring, or through the year. The nut is encased in a leathery two valved case that is 1 inch in diameter. The case encloses one spherical nut or two hemispherical nuts. The nuts have a smooth hard shell that encases a white kernel.Top quality macadamia kernels are free of defects and insect and fungal damage, and they contain a minimum of 72% oil. Kernels with less than 72% oil are often immature and harder, and they become over brown when roasted.

VARIETIES Considerable studies have gone into selection and breeding of the best cultivars for Hawaii. The College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR) recommends the following cultivars: Purvis (294), Kau (344), Kakea (508), Keaau (660), Mauka (741), Pahala (788), and Makai (800). Donnison (790) performs well at elevations below 500 feet.

FUNCTIONS The kernel is the main product from the macadamia nut tree. After harvesting, the husks covering the nuts are removed. The nuts are fried, the shells are cracked, and the kernels are removed to be oil-roasted or dry-roasted. Kernels are usually sold as snack nuts and chocolate-covered candy. Ice cream manufacturers and the baking industry also use macadamia kernels as an ingredient. The shell and husk also have uses. Shells can be used as a mulch, fuel for processing macadamia nuts, planting medium for anthurium culture, plastic manufacture and as an alternative to sand in the sand-blasting process. Husks are used as mulch or composted for fertilizer. Oil can be obtained from culled nuts. The cosmetic industry, especially in Japan, uses the oil in soaps, sunscreens and shampoos. The residual press cake might be used for animal feed. A one ounce oil-roasted macadamia nut (approximately 10-12 whole kernels) has 204,000 calories, 21.73 grams of fat, 2.06 grams of protein, 3.66 grams of carbohydrates, 13 milligrams of calcium, 33 milligrams of magnesium, 57 milligrams of phosphorus, 94 milligrams of potassium, and 2 milligrams of sodium.

PROPAGATION In Hawaii, commercial orchards are planted with grafted seedlings. Macadamia nut trees can start bearing a small crop in the fifth year after planting, and full production is reached in 12 to 15 years.

SOIL TYPES and LOCATION Macadamia nut trees can be grown on deep, well-drained soils with a pH of 5.0-6.5 or on well-drained a'a lava land that is sufficiently weathered to compliment natural vegetation. The trees require 60-120 inches of rainfall a year and can be grown from sea level to an elevation of 2500 feet. A major issue is strong wind, which can cause severe tree loss. Narrow-profile cultivars, such as Kau and Pahala, are more wind resistant than others.

PRODUCTION The macadamia nut originated and is grown in Australia, but commercial production in concentrated in Hawaii. Some countries in Latin America, Africa and Asia also grow macadamia nuts. In the continental United States, trees are found in California and Florida. The yield of in-shell nuts on poorer land in Hawaii is about 5200 lb/ac, with no less than 7000 lb/ac attainable on better land. In Australia, the yield in good orchards is about 4000-5000 lb/ac. The shell accounts for the majority of the macadamia nut's weight. Hawaii's average kernel recovery rate from in-shell nuts was 23.5% during 1989-1990. With an improved cracking system, better shell-kernel separators, and cultivars with a high percentage of kernel, the recovery rate could increase to 35%. Of the 49 million lb of gross, wet in-shell nuts delivered to processors in 1988-89, 3.5 million lb, or 7.1%, were culled. The primary reasons behind loss were mold and rot (2.2% of the total crop delivered), followed by immature nuts (2.1%); stink bugs Nezara viridula (1.1%); germinating nuts (0.7%); koa seed worm, Cryptophlebia illepida (0.5%); and the macadamia shot hole borer, Hypothenemus obscurus (0.5%). The figures exclude nuts culled before delivery and losses at the farm due to rat damage, macadamia quick decline (MQD) and other factors. Data on worldwide production are scarce and conflicting. An estimate for 1989 indicates that macadamia nut plantings covered 54,600 ac and total production of in-shell nuts was 62 million lb. Hawaii is the primary producer, making up over 73% of total production, followed by Australia (22%). Other producers include South Africa, Guatemala, Kenya, Costa Rica, Malawi, Brazil, Mexico, New Zealand and China. About 2000 acres are planted in the San Diego area. While not all plants have begun bearing, Southern California growers produced about 150,000 lb (in-shell) of rough-shell macadamia nuts in 1988 at a farmgate price of approximately $1.50 lb Rough-shell nuts do not roast well; the cost reflects a novelty demand for in-shell or raw nuts. Hawaii is the world's leader in growing and processing macadamia nuts. In 1989-90, Hawaii harvested a record 50.5 million lb of buts (net, wet in-shell basis) for a record farm value of $44.9 million, up from 18.2 million lb and $5.8 million in 1975-76. The crop covered about 22,300 acres in the state, of which 18,200 acres, or 82%, were bearing acreage.The cost of in-shell nuts has climbed along with production in Hawaii. The net farmgate price has gone from 31.6 cents in 1975-76 to 89 cents in 1989-90. In Hawaii, macadamia nuts are grown by both small-scale farmers and large corporate producers. Most operations are located on the Big Island. Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corp. (a subsidiary of C. Brewer) and MacFarms of Hawaii are the two largest local growers and processors. A 1989 CTAHR study calculated annual net returns per acre in Hawaii from start-up to maturity (16 years or older) for farms of 25, 50, 100, and 500 acres. Various price and yield scenarios were used for mature orchards, showing substantial economies of scale for the larger farms. A previous study published in 1982 assessed the economic feasibility of 5-, 10- and 20-acre farms in Hawaii. Most growers are multiple-income farm families, and macadamia nuts supply only a fraction of their income. Australia is the second largest producer of macadamia nuts, with an estimated 15,000 acres planted in 1989. While many of the Hawaii trees are mature, an estimated 20% of the trees in Australia are bearing. As the trees mature Australia will become a more formidable competitor. US per person usage of macadamia nuts increased from 0.04 lb in 1979 to 0.06 lb in 1988. macadamia nut consumption in 1988 was somewhat similar to that of filberts (0.09 lb) and pistachios (0.19 lb), but considerably lower than that of almonds (0.66 lb), pecans (0.52 lb) and walnuts (0.44 lb). In 1989-90, US (Hawaii) output of macadamia kernels was about 11.9 million lb (assuming a 23.5% kernel recovery rate). During 1989, the US also imported 5.1 million lb of macadamia nut products, of which 4.2 million lb were shelled nuts at a CIF value (cost, insurance and freight) of $20.4 million. In addition, 673,000 lb of prepared or preserved nuts and 189,000 lb of unshelled nuts were imported at values of $1.2 million and $175,000, respectively. In 1991, the farm value of macadamia nuts fell to $34.7 million, the lowest since the 1984-1985 crop season, as grower prices slid to a seven year low. Production was estimated at 49.5 million pounds, net wet-in-shell, down 1 % from the previous season. Weather in the major growing areas was drier than usual, however the effects on yield were varied. Continued dry weather in Kona and South Kona generally had a downward influence on yields, whereas normally wet East Hawaii orchards benefited from the drier conditions. Total acreage, at 22,500 acres, remained at about the same level. An anticipated boost in bearing acreage was postponed pending rejuvenation of major plantings. US imports of macadamia kernels have increase nearly eight times, from 539,700 lb in 1982 to 4.2 million lb in 1989. Australia was largely accountable for the increase; its exports to the United States rose from 21,800 lb in 1982 to 2.4 million lb in 1989. Imports from Malawi also increased substantially, from nothing in 1982 to 945,800 lb in 1989. In the 1992-1993 (July 1, 1992 to June 30, 1993) crop year, there were 660 farms with 20,500 acres in crop. There were 17,500 acres bearing a net production of 2,700 pounds per acre. There were 53,000,000 pounds of macadamia nuts delivered wet in-shell to processors. The net production less the total spoilage through cracking was 48,000,000 pounds. The gross farm price (farm value divided by gross production) was 61.6 cents per pound and the net farm price was 68 cents per pound. The farm value (net production multiplied by net farm price) was $32,640,000. In 1989, Australia supplied 94% of unshelled macadamia nut imports to the US. Australia also was the major supplier of shelled macadamia nuts, comprising 58% of the total US imports, followed by Malawi (22%) and Guatemala (15%). Other suppliers included Costa Rica, Kenya, Zimbabwe and Brazil. The average US import price (CIF) of macadamia kernels was $4.81/lb in 1989. The major ports of entry were Honolulu (32.6% of total imports), San Francisco (31.4%) and Los Angeles (28.8%). Hawaii is the most developed marketplace for macadamia nuts. The estimated value of Hawaii's chocolate-covered macadamia nut wholesaling industry is over $100 million. The snack nut market is another major outlet for macadamia nuts. Japanese visitors purchase a large quantity of macadamia products in Hawaii to take home. These "suitcase exports" are not part of the US export statistics. The Hawaii Macadamia nut Association publishes an annual proceedings of research and issues, and a quarterly newsletter, MacFacts.

Tired of fried, salty, sodium-laden and unhealthy snacks that leave you feeling fat and bloated?

Rest easy, we have the perfect snack you’ve been waiting for! Naturally dehydrated and packed with Heart-Healthy Macadamia Nuts, Mix of Other Raw Nuts, Energy Rich Seed Kernels and Beneficial Dried Fruits, SNAX is Nature’s answer to your current snacking woes.

REFERENCES Bittenbender, H. C. and H. H. Hirae. 1990. Common Problems of Macadamia Nut in Hawaii Research Extension Series 112. College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, HITAHR, University of Hawaii.

Neal, Marie C. In Gardens of Hawaii. Hawaii: Bishop Museum Press, 1965.

Yokoyama, Kevin M., Kulavit Wanitprapha, Stuart T. Nakamoto and H.C. Bittenbender. 1990. Macadamia Nut Economic Fact Sheet #9. Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, CTAHR, University of Hawaii.

Statistic of Hawaiian Agriculture 1991. Prepared by: Hawaii Agricultural Statistics Service, P.O. Box 22159, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96823-2159. December 1992. 105 pages.

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Health Benefits of Golden Raisins Vs. Regular Raisins

Raisins are full of phytonutrients with antioxidant properties.

A single-serving box of raisins is a practical, satisfying, nutritious snack. The dehydration process depletes grapes of some nutrients, leaving them low in vitamin content, but they contain antioxidant flavonoids, pigments that give plants their color, that offer health benefits. Although colorful fruits in many cases are richer in antioxidants because they contain more flavonoids, golden raisins have more of some flavonoids than regular raisins, so choose your raisin type based on your health goals.

Vitamins and Minerals

Golden and regular raisins are nearly identical in terms of most nutrients and daily value. A 1.5-ounce, single-serving box of either provides about 130 calories, 1.7 grams of fiber, 1.5 grams of protein and 25.5 grams of natural sugar. Each provides you with less than 5 percent of your recommended daily intake for calcium, iron, magnesium and most B vitamins. Each provides 5 to 10 percent of the potassium and phosphorus you require each day.

Cancer and Coronary Disease Prevention

Kaempferol is a flavonoid that may reduce your risk of developing cancer and cardiovascular disease. According to authors of a 2012 "Mini-Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry" review paper, kaempferol acts as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent, and it may help prevent nerve disorders, diabetes and osteoporosis. Golden raisins have 1.69 milligrams of kaempferol per 100 milligrams of weight, providing 169 times more kaempferol than regular raisins, which contain .001 milligrams of kaempferol per 100 milligrams.

Anti-histamine and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Golden raisins may benefit people with allergies. Quercetin, a flavonoid in grapes, has anti-histamine and anti-inflammatory properties and may assist in preventing heart disease and cancer, based on the University of Maryland Medical Center. Although red and green raw grapes each have a little over 1 milligram per 100 milligrams of food weight, the drying process causes red grapes to shed quercetin and green grapes to gain it. A 1.5-ounce box of golden raisins has 881.5 milligrams of quercetin, nearly 10 times the level of quercetin in the same serving size of regular raisins.

Improved Brain Function

Regular raisins are richer in catechins, a robust antioxidant phytonutrient that may also assist you oxidize fat, according to the University of California's Center for Health and Nutrition Research. Catechins in raisins may also boost your cognitive function, according to researchers from a "Journal of Neuroscience" study published in 2012. They gave a grape-derived preparation to mice and determined that the catechins in it improved the mice's learning and memory capabilities. They report that catechins may help people with Alzheimer's Disease. Each 100 milligrams of regular seedless raisins contains .42 milligrams of catechins, while golden raisins are not a significant source of that phytonutrient.

Tired of fried, salty, sodium-laden and unhealthy snacks that leave you feeling fat and bloated?

Rest easy, we have the perfect snack you’ve been waiting for! Naturally dehydrated and packed with Heart-Healthy Macadamia Nuts, Mix of Other Raw Nuts, Energy Rich Seed Kernels and Beneficial Dried Fruits, SNAX is Nature’s answer to your current snacking woes.

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Advantages of Raisins

By far the most popular dried fruit, raisins are a great accessory for any diet. They are very sweet and delicious, but do not have the negative implications of processed sugars and junk food. They make a great alternative to processed sugars and can assist with weight reduction objectives. The vitamin C content is low, but they are rich in powerful antioxidants that can reducing signs of aging and prevent cancer, among other benefits.

Health

Rich in Antioxidants The same powerful antioxidants that are present in red wine and grapes are also present in raisins. A diet high in antioxidants is essential to healthy aging and disease prevention. Raisins, along with other fruit, are wonderful sources.

Source of Resveratrol There has been a great deal of interest in this age defying antioxidant. Research has shown that it has an exceptional ability to reduce signs of aging. The supplement market is starting to be flooded with Resveratrol products, but it’s less costly to get yours from all natural raisins.

Healthy Sweetener The crystallized sugars in raisins are generally much easier to incorporate into a nutritious diet than regular table sugars. Raisins mix well in salads and oatmeal. This can be very helpful for fat loss when trying to lessen the quantity of sugar in your diet.

Good for Teeth Although raisins are high in sugar, you may be surprised to learn that they are actually beneficial for teeth. Studies have shown that raisins are in fact able to prevent cavities and protect against tooth decay.

Contains some Fiber About 3% of the calories in raisins are dietary fiber. This may not sound like much, but it sure beats the 0% fiber you will probably have from processed sweets and sugary drinks. A diet rich in fiber will help with digestion and maintain a healthy heart. The nutritional advantages of raisins are significant.

Tired of fried, salty, sodium-laden and unhealthy snacks that leave you feeling fat and bloated?

Rest easy, we have the perfect snack you’ve been waiting for! Naturally dehydrated and packed with Heart-Healthy Macadamia Nuts, Mix of Other Raw Nuts, Energy Rich Seed Kernels and Beneficial Dried Fruits, SNAX is Nature’s answer to your current snacking woes.

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Pineapple Health Advantages

The health advantages of pineapple are innumerable.This delicious tropical fruit is filled in abundance with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and enzymes. Pineapples belong to the family of bromeliaceae and contain sulfhydryl proteolytic enzyme bromelain, which has an array of health benefits.

Several of the other valuable nutrients present in pineapple are listed below:

Vitamin C Manganese Fiber Vitamin B6 Copper Folate Vitamin B1

As outlined above, the enzyme found in the pineapple, bromelain, has numerous health advantages. The enzyme has been used in the management of inflammatory diseases for many years. It assists in digestion, curbs inflammation, reduces blood clots, and is helpful in healing arthritis, sinusitis, and gout. In a study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases, it was found that stem bromelain can be helpful in the management of mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Listed below are some of the popular uses and advantages of pineapples.

Anti-oxidant properties: Pineapple is rich in Vitamin C, one of the strongest and most effective anti-oxidant. Vitamin C aids in preserving collagen in the skin. Collagen is a powerful anti-aging agent that maintains the youth and vitality of the skin and helps keep wrinkles away. Vitamin C also helps improve the immune system and counters dangerous free radical damage, which assists in cutting the odds of life threatening diseases like heart ailment and cancer.

Rich mineral source: Pineapple is a wonderful source of the trace mineral manganese. The presence of manganese in the human body is minimal. Manganese assists in maintaining healthy bone structure, thyroid function, and blood sugar levels. Manganese is also useful in proper absorption of calcium in the body. Deficiency of manganese can cause severe health problems. It can result in infertility and osteoporosis in women. Low manganese levels may also lead to heart and pancreatic complications. Moreover, some studies have indicated that manganese could help boost virility. Pineapple also includes Vitamin B1 or thiamine, which benefits the central nervous system and promotes healthy hair and skin. It also helps in energy build up in the body.

Weight loss help: Pineapple is a good substitute for sweet and high calorie deserts. It is one of the sweetest fruits with fewer calories and no unhealthy fats or cholesterol. It is also a rich source of dietary fiber.

Prevent macular degeneration: Pineapple contains a great deal of beta carotene that aids in preventing macular degeneration, the most common factor for loss of vision in adults.

Pineapple and pregnancy: Pineapple contains folate. Folic acid is recognized to prevent birth defects. However, eating pineapple during pregnancy may cause heavy bleeding; also, pineapple juice may skyrocket the blood glucose levels in expectant women with gestational diabetes. Old tales advocate pineapple juice for pregnant women in order to cause labor in the last month of pregnancy. It is thought that presence of the enzyme bromelain in the pineapple could dilate cervix, but there is little scientific evidence to back the claim. Hence, it is very important to consult the obstetrician before making pineapple juice a part of your pregnancy diet.

Dried Pineapple

Pineapple extract is popular in many nutritional supplements to facilitate digestion, yet, as with any other fruits, there are some disadvantages of preserved or dried pineapple vis-à-vis fresh pineapple.

While nutrient rich fresh pineapple is available through March to June, the canned and the dried variety are available throughout the year. An advantage of dried pineapple is that it can be consumed throughout the year. Moreover, drying is an age-old approach to prevent foods from spoilage. Some of the nutrients found in dried pineapple are listed below:

Calcium Potassium Fiber

However, drying may cause the fruit to lose significant amount of vitamins, especially vitamin C.

Tired of fried, salty, sodium-laden and unhealthy snacks that leave you feeling fat and bloated?

Rest easy, we have the perfect snack you’ve been waiting for! Naturally dehydrated and packed with Heart-Healthy Macadamia Nuts, Mix of Other Raw Nuts, Energy Rich Seed Kernels and Beneficial Dried Fruits, SNAX is Nature’s answer to your current snacking woes.

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Papaya Health Advantages

Papaya is a soft-stemmed tree found in tropical America. The tree is cultivated for its yellow fruit, which can be either eaten raw or cooked or even taken as juice. Moreover, it can even be included in fruit salads or combined with jalapeno and red onion for a new twist to the taste of salsa. Papaya is also referred to as melon tress and papaya health advantages are known across the world. This tropical fruit is ranked as one of the most nutritious fruits by the Center of Science.

The Nutritional Breakdown of Papaya:

Papaya juice contains papain, which is an enzyme and it is akin to digestant and pepsin in action. Each serving contains high level of Vitamin C.

A cup contains 88.3 mg of vitamin. It also boosts the consumption of potassium in the body since it supplies about 264 mg of potassium.

One cup serving also has 397 mcg of beta carotene and 2651 mcg of lycopene. Thus, the health benefits of papaya fruit cannot be overlooked.

The Health Benefits of Papaya:

As mentioned, there are plenty of papaya benefits. These include:

Lowers Cholesterol- The fruit is fiber rich, antioxidants and vitamin C, which prevents the buildup of cholesterol in arteries. The extracts of the fruit are found to lessen the lipids and triglycerides. This is one of the main advantages of raw papaya.

Boosts Immunity- A single papaya can fulfill more than 200% of the daily requirements of vitamin C through which a robust immune system is built.

Helps in Diabetes- Even if it is sweet in nature, the major benefit of papaya is that it has low sugar content. As a result, these are excellent fruits for diabetics. The phytonutrients and vitamins contained in the fruit prevent heart diseases in diabetics.

Protection against Arthritis- Eating papayas is wonderful for bones and they contain anti-inflammatory properties that keep various forms of arthritis at bay.

Helps in Digestion- Many people battle with digestion problems. Eating a papaya daily can improve the digestive health with its enzyme papain and fiber.

Eases Menstrual Pain- Women who experience menstrual pain should take several portions of papaya because papain regulates the flow of menstrual blood.

Beneficial for Eyes- Being loaded with Vitamin A and flavonoids like zeaxanthin, beta carotene, lutein, it protects the mucus membranes and prevents them from damage. It also prevents the development of age related macular degeneration.

Promotes Hair Growth- Benefits of eating papaya include healthy and smooth hair. Vitamin A ensures production of sebum. Even external applications of the extract can prevent dandruff and boosts hair growth.

Reduces Stress- Being rich in several nutrients, a plate of papaya can certainly keep away stress.

Prevents Aging Signs- Eating papaya can prolong life because of the presence of vitamins A, C and antioxidants.

Several benefits of papaya fruit can be obtained by consuming it raw or by cooking it or drinking the juice.

Tired of fried, salty, sodium-laden and unhealthy snacks that leave you feeling fat and bloated?

Rest easy, we have the perfect snack you’ve been waiting for! Naturally dehydrated and packed with Heart-Healthy Macadamia Nuts, Mix of Other Raw Nuts, Energy Rich Seed Kernels and Beneficial Dried Fruits, SNAX is Nature’s answer to your current snacking woes.

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The Numerous Health Benefits of Apples

Apples are the second most widely used fruit in the United States, with every American eating about 19 pounds a year. Apples are chockfull of disease-fighting vitamins and antioxidants, easily making them one of the top-ranked fruits for health advantages. When compared to other commonly consumed fruits, apples rank second for highest antioxidant activity. However, they rank the highest for relative levels of beneficial free phenolic compounds which are not bound to other compounds and are more readily absorbed into the bloodstream. The majority of the antioxidants in apples are in the peel, including catechins, procyanidins, chlorogenic acid and ploridizin. This is the main reason why intake of apples is associated with a decreased risk of many chronic diseases.

By way of example, three studies have specifically linked apple consumption with lowered risk for cancer. Another study demonstrates that apple and pear consumption is associated with a decreased risk of asthma. Apple consumption has also been connected with lowered risk of coronary heart disease, while reduced risk of type II diabetes was associated with apple and berry consumption in another major Finnish study. Apples , and particularly apple peels, have powerful antioxidant activity and can greatly inhibit the development of liver cancer and colon cancer cells. According to results from all of these studies, it appears that apples play an important role in cutting the risk of a wide variety of diseases. For example, eating apples may impact health in a number of beneficial ways, including:

Protecting brain cells - apples protect brain cells against oxidative stress-induced toxicity and may play a crucial role in lessening the risk of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. Eating apples is also connected to a decreased risk of stroke.

Lowering diabetes risk - consumption of apples and other fruits such as blueberries and grapes is connected to reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. This may be because of their beneficial role in blood sugar regulation, since apples contain compounds that reduce glucose absorption from the digestive tract; stimulate beta cells in the pancreas to secrete insulin; and increase glucose uptake from blood by stimulating insulin receptors.

Reducing cancer risk - apples reduce the risk of cancer, thanks to their anti-mutagenic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and apoptosis-inducing activities. Apple products have been shown to prevent skin, mammary and colon carcinogenesis in animal models. Epidemiological observations indicate that regular intake of more than one apples a day may lessen the risk for lung and colon cancer.

Fighting heart disease - eating apples is associated with a lower risk of death from coronary disease, thought to be associated with their content of antioxidant flavonoids.

While apple sauce and apple juice do contain some valuable vitamins and antioxidants, eating apples in their whole form provide the best combination of nutrients and fiber the way nature intended. This is important for several reasons. For instance, apples are often regarded as a high-fiber food and many of its heart health advantages are associated with a kind of fiber called pectin. In fact, apples really only contain about two to three grams of fiber per ounce, of which pectin makes up about about half. Even though this is a modest amount of pectin, it has a powerful influence on health due to its interactions with other apple phytonutrients. In reality, this relatively modest amount of pectin present in whole apples has been proven to interact with other apple phytonutrients to give the kind of blood fat lowering effects that would typically be linked to much higher levels of soluble fiber intake. In recent comparisons with laboratory animals, the blood fat lowering effects of whole apple were shown to be greatly reduced when whole apples were eliminated from the diet and replaced by pectin alone.

Quite simply, it's not fiber alone that explains the cardiovascular benefits of apples, but the interaction of fiber with other phytonutrients. For the full cardiovascular benefits of apples, it's the whole food form that is most effective as only this form can provide the unique fiber-plus-phytonutrient combinations. Similarly, studies show that eating a whole apple before a meal results in the consumption of up to 15% fewer calories, which was not seen with apple sauce or apple juice. Eating a whole apple was also associated with greater feelings of satiety after a meal.

Many fruit supplement products are also used by health-conscious individuals to help them stay full between meals and reduce unhealthy snacking.

Fructose has been connected to many chronic health problems when consumed excessively, including fructose from whole fruits like apples. Apples are a relatively high-fructose fruit, with approximately 9.5 grams in a medium-sized apple. Apple juice contains considerably more, which is another reason why it's better to eat apples in their whole form. It is also vital that you time the intake of fructose-rich foods like apple correctly. Eating one after a calorie-rich meal for dessert will not have the same effect as eating it after a glycogen-depleting workout. In the former case, the apple's fructose is more likely to bring about weight gain and insulin resistance; in the latter case, it will harmlessly replenish glycogen stores within muscles or be burned directly during the workout.

If you're insulin or leptin resistant - or are overweight, diabetic, hypertensive, or have high cholesterol levels - then it's preferable to limit your fruit intake to about 15 grams each day, which would be equivalent to eating approximately one apple and a handful of blueberries - unless you time the fruit consumption as described above and were doing fairly significant exercise in which you were burning a few hundred calories.

If you are not insulin/leptin resistant, are normal weight without diabetes, hypertension or high cholesterol and regularly embark on strenuous physical activity or hard physical work, then higher fructose intake isn't likely to cause any health problems. In this case, you can probably eat more fruit without giving it much thought.

Tired of fried, salty, sodium-laden and unhealthy snacks that leave you feeling fat and bloated?

Rest easy, we have the perfect snack you’ve been waiting for! Naturally dehydrated and packed with Heart-Healthy Macadamia Nuts, Mix of Other Raw Nuts, Energy Rich Seed Kernels and Beneficial Dried Fruits, SNAX is Nature’s answer to your current snacking woes.

References: http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/10/28/apple-health-benefits.aspx?e_cid=20131028Z2_DNL_art_2&utm_source=dnl&utm_medium=email&utm_content=art2&utm_campaign=20131028Z2

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The Health Advantages of Bananas

Are Bananas Healthy for You?

You most likely think that bananas are good for you. But the banana is one of nature’s candy bars: wrapped, ready to eat, and rich in sugar. That makes bananas detrimental. Or does it?

After all, we now know that because high blood sugar levels are very dangerous for your system, your body aggressively stores sugar as fat.

Because of this eating sugar-or foods that the body can rapidly convert to sugar, such as refined carbs-can cause massive hormonal and energy swings when your body stores that sugar as fat…leaving you hungrier than ever.

However…

What Makes Bananas so Good for You?

For many people, the response to the issue, “Are bananas healthy for you?” is a resounding “Yes”!

Even with all their sugar, according to the USDA, bananas have less water than other fruist: they are 75% water, compared to oranges, which are 86% water. The effect? They tend to have about 89 calories per 100 grams, while oranges have about 49 calories per 100 grams[i].

A medium-sized banana is from 7-8 inches/18-20 cm long, and at about 4 ounces/118 grams, is recognized as a single serving. A medium banana contains 105 calories, 14.4 grams of sugar, 3.1 grams of fiber, and 1.3 grams of protein.

This means you get a lot of sweet, natural goodness in a small, easily digestible package, making bananas a terrific way to cure a sugar craving. Just like a candy bar, a banana will satisfy your sweet tooth-but unlike a candy bar, a banana won’t take you for a ride on the sugar roller coaster that leaves you empty, drained, and craving more sugar. That’s because bananas have a lot more going on than just sugar.

So let’s open up that bright yellow wrapper and discover why bananas are so good for us.

What Makes Bananas Healthy?

Bananas are so healthy that even the sugar in bananas is good for you. The reason is that bananas are healthy for you is because they’re rich in fiber, 3.1 grams for a medium banana. The US Recommended Daily Allowance of fiber is 38 grams a day for men and 25 grams a day for women. Bananas are also rich in potassium and magnesium: that medium banana contains 422 mg of potassium and 32 mg magnesium.

Most Americans don’t get enough of either fiber or potassium, yet both are essential to your wellbeing. In reality, magnesium is critical for transporting potassium across cell membranes, so it can play a crucial role in maintaining a normal heart rate.

Precisely what is Fiber and Why Do I Need More of It?

If you’ve ever wondered why a sweet treat like a banana doesn’t go straight to your belly, fiber is why. In truth, fiber is among the reasons why the sugar in the banana doesn’t immediately rush to derail your metabolism.

There are two varieties of dietary fiber: soluble and insoluble.

Soluble fiber forms a gel-like material when it is dissolved in water. It slows down your digestion and helps reduce your blood cholesterol and lower your blood sugar levels. Soluble fiber can be found in apples, barley, beans, carrots, citrus fruits, oats, peas, and psyllium.

Insoluble fiber doesn’t dissolve. It assists move material through your gastrointestinal tract and bulks up stools, so it’s very useful to people suffering from constipation. Beans, nuts, wheat bran, whole-wheat flour, and vegetables like cauliflower and other Brassicas, green beans and sweet and white potatoes are all excellent sources of insoluble fiber.

Most whole foods, like bananas, contain both kinds of fiber. The soluble fiber in the banana -along with the magnesium and beneficial phytonutrients-slows how fast your body metabolizes the sugar in it. Consequently the sugar is less likely to spike or trigger an insulin overreaction that too quickly shuttles sugar from your blood to your fat cells to protect you from high blood sugar-leaving you hungrier than ever and craving more sugar. Instead, your body slowly shuttles that sugar to your muscles for immediate use or to your liver for short-term storage…where your body can easily utilize it.

This makes bananas healthy candy. So if you’re trying to break a sugar addiction, don’t try to defeat your cravings with willpower. The sugar of a banana will take the edge off those cravings so you don’t find yourself eating.

Why Do I Require More Potassium?

According to the World Health Organization[ii], we need to eat less than 2,000 mg of sodium (that’s 5 grams of table salt) and at least 3,510 mg of potassium per day. When we eat an excessive amount of sodium and not enough potassium, we’re at increased risk of higher blood pressure, and thus also heart disease and stroke. Worldwide, these are the leading causes of death and disability. In fact, according to the US Centers for Disease Control, heart disease and stroke are the leading killers of Americans.

Most people eat way too much sodium and far too little potassium. So grab a banana to be healthy.

How Else Are Bananas Healthy for You?

Their high amounts of potassium and low levels of sodium have garnered bananas official recognition from the FDA as protecting you from heart attack and stroke by lowering your blood pressure[iii], confirmed in a clinical study with bananas .

Bananas are full of healthy B-vitamins that help your body sustain a healthy metabolism and reduce health problems associated with type 2 diabetes. B-vitamins are essential for your neurological system, and help your body produce white blood cells.

The potassium in bananas help your body maintain healthy fluid balance, which protects against swelling.

Bananas also help keep you healthy by potentially lowering your risk of kidney cancer, and macular degeneration (due to the high content of the carotenoid “lutein”).

If you suffer from PMS or want to improve your mood whether you have PMS or not, have a banana .

The sugar and potassium in bananas is also good for you when you are learning or concentrating[iv]. So eat a banana if you want to be focused!

Want to power through a vigorous workout? Consider eating bananas first as their blend of slow-moving sugar plus electrolytes can help keep your energy level steady.

The potassium and magnesium in bananas may help protect you from muscle cramps at night and during workouts.

Bananas are rich in pectin, a soluble dietary fiber and natural detoxifying agent, perfect for digestion.

Banana fiber contains prebiotics that encourages the growth of healthy bacteria in the bowel. These bacteria produce digestive enzymes that assist your body absorb nutrients, and actual support healthy weight management.

All that fiber in bananas is useful for helping ease constipation.

Bananas are also a healthy way to sooth your GI tract if you have the runs.

Bananas may naturally soothe acid reflux, heartburn and GERD.

If you have stomach ulcers, raw bananas may “coat” your stomach as well as reducing the distress caused by stomach acids.

Bananas are full of antioxidants, particularly when overripe which protect you against free radicals and chronic disease.

And from the files of folk medicine[v]…

If you have an insect bite or hives, rub them with the interior of the banana peel. This may help lessen the itching and inflammation.

If you have a wart, you can attempt to remove it by taping the inside of a piece of banana peel over the wart.

If you have morning sickness and suffer from hypoglycemia, eating bananas may help.

If you’re quitting smoking, the high levels of B-vitamins, potassium and magnesium in bananas are good for you, helping you recover quickly from nicotine withdrawal.

Last but not least, if you’re suffering from a hangover, make a banana milkshake and sweeten it with honey. The fruit will calm your stomach, the honey will help normalize your blood sugar, and the milk will rehydrate you.

Are Bananas Bad for You?

With all this going for them, it sounds like bananas can’t possibly be bad for you. But to make all that sweet goodness of a banana go even further, eat it with some healthy fat and protein, like 2 tablespoons of your favorite nut butter or some cheese, and an egg, or a handful of your favorite nuts. This further slows your body’s absorption of the banana’s sugar, so you can use more of it, longer. And you get a wonderful blend of sugar, salt and fat that most of us naturally love.

The only way bananas can be bad for you-outside of an allergy, of course- is if you have kidney disease. If your kidneys have been damaged (a frequent side-effect of diabetes) and can’t properly regulate your potassium levels, high levels of potassium can cause serious heart problems. If you have kidney disease and potassium is an issue, please consult with your renal dietitian to develop a diet that has safe quantities of potassium. However, with proper planning, you may still be able to enjoy this natural candy bar.

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References

[i] United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference Release 27. Retrieved 30-Mar-2015 from http://ndb.nal.usda.gov/ndb/foods/show/2208?fg=&man=&lfacet=&count=&max=35&sort=&qlookup=banana+raw&offset=&format=Full&new=&measureby=.

[ii] World Health Organization (WHO). WHO issues new guidance on dietary salt and potassium. WHO Media Centre. 31-Jan-2013. Retrieved 30-Mar-2015 from http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/notes/2013/salt_potassium_20130131/en/

[iii] American Heart Association (AHA). Potassium and High Blood Pressure. Retrieved 30 Mar 2015 from http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/HighBloodPressure/PreventionTreatmentofHighBloodPressure/Potassium-and-High-Blood-Pressure_UCM_303243_Article.jsp.

[iv] Sobir I. Bananas improve concentration in children. Tropical Fruit Research, Bogor Institute of Agriculture. 2010. Retrieved 30 Mar 2015 from http://health.kompas.com/read/2010/03/12/09365852/Pisang..Tingkatkan.Konsentrasi.Anak.

[v] Amazing Bananas. Retrieved 30-Mar-2015 from http://rense.com/general85/bananas.htm.

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Advantages of Apricots

Apricot is regarded as one of the healthiest fruits in the world. The fruit has a number of natural therapeutic properties. It is full of essential vitamins such as Vitamin A, vitamin B complex and Vitamin C.

It is a low-calorie fruit that can be eaten raw. Recent research reveals that the fruit is associated with healthy living and longevity because of its high magnesium content.

Advantages of Apricots

Apricot is a highly nutritious fruit that has several health advantages. It is used to treat numerous health conditions.

Constipation: As the fruit is fiber rich, it can be consumed as a laxative. Regular intake of apricot eases bowel movement, preventing constipation. It also helps combat acidity and aids digestion.

Fevers: For thousands of years, people suffering from fever were administered apricot juice as medication. This is because the fruit provides essential vitamins and minerals. It raises water levels and detoxifies the body. Steamed apricot is also given to treat fevers.

Skin conditions: Apricot oil is extremely effective in treating skin conditions. Itching, eczema and various skin rashes can be cured by using this oil extract. Regular apricot oil massages keep the skin silky smooth.

Anemia: As apricot is full of iron, it helps with the formation of hemoglobin. Regular consumption of apricot maintains hemoglobin levels. Medicines made from apricot also help treat anemia.

Cancer: Apricot kernels are believed to be quite effective in treating cancer. This is true specially in the early stages.

Asthma: Apricot oil contains anti-asthmatic elements. It assists treat bronchial diseases, wheezing and asthma.

How to Consume Apricots

Apricots can be consumed raw or as dry fruits. The fruit can also be blended or taken in the juice form. It is commonly used to prepare jams, jellies and squashes.

People of all age groups, especially women, are advised to consume apricots. Apricot tea is a great stress buster and it soothes the digestive system.

Caution

Consuming excessive amounts of apricot can lead to nausea, headache and mental disorders. Individuals who are allergic to dry nuts and fruits ought to be careful when consuming apricots. Consult a physician if any rashes occur.

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Health Advantages of Almonds

Almonds are not just delicious, versatile, and portable, but are nutritionally beneficial on a number of levels. Some of those nutrients are similar to the ones in whole grains, but without all the starch. The health rewards of almonds include getting respite from constipation, respiratory disorders, cough, hearth disorders, anemia, impotency, and diabetes. It also helps in hair care, skin care (psoriasis), and dental care. Although almonds are loaded with calories and fat, eating them sparingly can actually help with weight loss. Almonds are also known to have great medicinal value.

Health Benefits of Almonds:

Almonds are a source of many nutrients that assist in growth and development of the brain.

Almond induces high intellectual level and has been considered as a crucial food item for growing children.

Almonds also help in preventing coronary disease by strengthening the heart muscles and decreasing the bad cholesterol level while simultaneously boosting the good cholesterol levels.

Almond milk is highly recommended for obese people since it helps in dropping pounds.

Almonds are full of manganese, riboflavin, and copper, all of which aid in energy production. If you are always on the go, try making your own almond based energy bar, and take your energy with you.

Almonds also have a stabilizing impact on sugar and insulin levels after meals, offering protection from diabetes.

Almonds improve the movement of food through the colon, thereby preventing colon cancer.

Almonds are also known to enhance one’s beauty. It is a vital ingredient in face packs and enhances a fair complexion. It can also make your hair soft and shiny.

Almonds are dense in fiber and help in the prevention of constipation. It is also advisable to drink a lot of water after eating almonds .

Almonds are good in pregnancy as they contain folic acid which helps to lessen the incidence of birth defects in newborn babies.

Almonds contains potassium which helps in regulating blood pressure and since it is low in sodium, it helps in managing blood pressure.

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The Power of Pumpkin - 7 Natural Health Benefits

October is the pumpkin’s time to shine. It’s a recognizable indication of the autumn season and harvest.

The rest of the year, pumpkins tend to take a backseat. We disregard the brightly colored squash after the last slice of pumpkin pie is finished and the jackolanterns turn into mush on the front porch.

But maybe we shouldn’t…

The pumpkin has numerous incredible natural health benefits, and it’s great for much more than just pie.

7 Ways Pumpkins Can Improve Your Health

Here’s a look at the nutritional benefits of pumpkins and how they can promote good health.

1. Good Source of Vitamin A & Carotenoids

The vibrant orange color of pumpkins is a dead giveaway that they are loaded with beta-carotene, which your body converts into Vitamin A.

Beta-carotene is known for its potential to support your immune system. Vitamin A is also a crucial vitamin for maintaining vision health. A cup of pumpkin has nearly 200% of the recommended daily value for Vitamin A.

2. Cholesterol & Heart Health

The most amazing part of the pumpkin may actually be the seeds, which have a great deal of nutritious qualities. One particular is the potential to support healthy cholesterol levels - especially the balance between good and bad cholesterol (LDL & HDL).

Pumpkin seeds as well as other nuts and seeds are rich in phytosterols, which are plant-based chemicals that could keep LDL levels under control. Healthy cholesterol levels mean a healthier heart - and that’s not the only way pumpkin seeds help your.

They are also full of magnesium, an important mineral, of which most Americans have a deficiency. Magnesium promotes healthy blood pressure levels and could help keep you health so serious issues are unlikely - like a heart attack or stroke. A quarter-cup of pumpkin seeds contains about half the recommended daily amount of magnesium.

3. Lots of Fiber

Fresh pumpkins have about three grams of fiber per one-cup serving. Add to that the point that it also contains only about 50 calories per serving, and this is a superb vegetable to help you control hunger along with weight gain.

Since canned pumpkin is more concentrated - it genuinely has even more fiber - approximately seven grams per serving as well as three grams of protein. There’s some more fiber in those pumpkin seeds too.

4. Good Source of Zinc

Pumpkin seeds are also a wonderful way to get the mineral zinc. If you aren’t getting enough zinc in your diet, your body could be more at risk of coming down with colds and the flu. That’s why zinc can be regarded as an important mineral for immune system health.

Pumpkin seeds and pumpkin seed oil can also be good for men’s health. They’ve been shown to aid the prostate due to the high zinc content. There’s more than 2 mg in just one ounce of seeds. Zinc has even been shown to potentially reduce enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia. Read the study for more information.

5. Skin Health & Protection

Healthy skin is yet another positive effect of the pumpkin. You’ll often find natural lotions that include pumpkin in the ingredients.

The carotenoids in pumpkin may help neutralize free radicals, which can cause stress and damage to your skin. Dermatologist and author Kenneth Beer told Health.com that because the pumpkin contains Vitamins A, C and E, it can also help cleanse the skin.

To top it all off, pumpkins have excellent hydrating properties to keep your skin from getting dehydrated.

6. Potassium for Refueling

We’ve always heard that the banana is nature’s energy bar on account of all the potassium (or Vitamin K). But you may surprised to know that while one average-sized banana has about 420 mg of potassium, a cup of cooked pumpkin contains more than 560 mg.

Potassium can help restore electrolytes and maintain fluids in your body after a good workout. That ensures your muscles recover properly and helps you avoid cramping. Plus, an insufficiency in potassium could also give rise to reducing hypertension/high blood pressure.

7. Boost Mood and Help You Sleep

Usually we talk about turkey when we think of tryptophan, which can make you feel sleepy. But turkey meat doesn’t actually have all that much of the amino acid. However, pumpkin seeds truly are a good source of tryptophan.

Your body uses tryptophan to assist it produce the hormone serotonin. Obviously, serotonin is referred to as the “happy hormone.” So eating pumpkin seeds could improve your mood.

You use serotonin to produce melatonin - also referred to as the “sleep hormone.” Melatonin is vital for developing a healthy, normal sleep cycle. In an article about the benefits of pumpkin seeds, Dr. Joseph Mercola suggests eating a handful of pumpkin seeds a couple of hours before you plan to go to bed. It could be a natural way to help you fall asleep and stay asleep.

Tired of fried, salty, sodium-laden and unhealthy snacks that leave you feeling fat and bloated?

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Sunflower Seeds Nutrients

Nature has endowed all things in nature with nutritional and natural healing properties. The vivacious, rich golden hued sunflower blooms with their trailing blaze of yellow are in no way an exception. Besides being a visual treat, they are also a crucial food source containing health-benefiting nutrients, minerals, antioxidants and vitamins.

History

The Sunflower has been linked to people for long. With their origin from North America going back to over 5,000 years,the sunflower was used as a food source and oil. Parts of the flowers, roots and stems have been used for diverse reasons including pigment dye. However, the bright yellow petals of the sunflower are considered poisonous to humans. Today sunflower oil is nevertheless an appreciated healthy vegetable oil and the crunchy sunflower seeds, a product of sunflower, are enjoyed as a healthy, tasty and nutritious snack.

Description

Recognized worldwide for its effervescent beauty, the sunflower known as Helianthus annuus in Latin scientific term denotes their representation of the sun on earth, for ‘helios’in Greek means ‘sun’ and ‘anthos’ stands for ‘flower’.

The best things in life come in tiny packages… similarly the greyish-green, black coloured sunflower seeds, with their white and black stripes, sheathed in tear-dropped shaped shells containing extremely high oil content are nutrient dense. Laden with healthy fats, protein, fibre, minerals, vitamin E and phytochemicals, the seeds are utilized to make cooking oil, feeding birds besides imparting a number of advantages to a lot of people because of their high levels of some of the most vital nutrients necessary for a healthy life.

Nutritional Advantages of Sunflower Seeds

Vitamin E

Sunflower seeds are an excellent whole food source of vitamin E, the body’s main lipid soluble antioxidant. Vitamin E travels throughout the body to find damaging free radicals preventing fat containing molecules from being damaged protecting against premature ageing. Vitamin E contains anti-inflammatory properties that prevent the potential for inflammatory diseases generally brought on by free radicals damage for example rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, cancer, diabetes and osteoarthritis.

Being an excellent source of vitamin E, sunflower seeds prevent occurrence of cardiovascular diseases and helps prevent oxidation of cholesterol caused due to damage of free radicals. Cholesterol oxidation leads to clogging of arteries resulting in atherosclerosis, cardiac arrest, and stroke. Consumption of a quarter cup sunflower seeds provides over 90% of the daily-required value of vitamin E.

Vitamin E has also been proven to reduce the risk of colon cancer, bladder cancer and cancer of the prostate.

Described as the “lightning rod” of the cell, Vitamin E permits reactive molecules to crash into the cell, like lightning, without causing damage. Vitamin E directly protects the skin from ultraviolet radiation. A diet containing vitamin E-rich foods promotes this same protective effect.

Phytosterols

According to Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Research, sunflower seeds are high in many phytochemicals like choline, lignan, phenolic acids, and betaine, as well as the amino acid arginine.

Phytochemicals or beneficial plant chemicals have the identical chemical structure to cholesterol. Therefore, they combat with cholesterol to be absorbed into the small intestine. Hence, less cholesterol gets absorbed and there is a marked reduction in the body’s level of blood cholesterol.

Chlorogenic acid helps reduce blood sugar levels by limiting glycogen breakdown in the liver.

Magnesium

Rich in magnesium, sunflower seeds are great for maintaining bone health. In humans, majority of the magnesium is present in the bone, together with calcium content. Some levels of the magnesium present in the bones accounts for giving the bones their shape and the remaining quantities of magnesium found on the surface is stored to be utilized by the body as and when required.

Various studies indicate that Magnesium aids in averting frequent migraine attacks. Magnesium also helps lower blood pressure levels and helps maintain healthy readings.

Magnesium provides a calming effect on the nerves and blood vessels, by protecting against calcium seeping into the nerve cells and activating them.

Copper

Copper helps the body carry oxygen to red blood cells and produce energy in the cells.

Copper is also an important part of some antioxidant enzymes thus protecting from oxidative stress in the body.

Copper found in sunflower seeds is important for the function of enzymes involved in cross-linking collagen and elastin, providing strength and flexibility to bones and joints.

Selenium

Selenium works in concert with vitamin E as an antioxidant and protects cells from damage that cause cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other health problems.

Selenium protect the body against cancers by promoting DNA repair and synthesis in damaged cells, by impeding the creation of cancer cells, and by causing cancer cells to die. Besides selenium is integrated at the effective site of various proteins, including glutathione peroxidise, one of the most dominant antioxidant enzymes naturally found in the body, that plays a crucial role in the prevention of cancer. Glutathione peroxidase is for the most part used by the liver to detoxify numerous harmful molecules. However, low levels of glutathione peroxidise, show a failure to neutralize toxic molecules, leaving them in the body to create disaster damaging DNA and promoting cancer.

Folate

Folate, part of B vitamins plays an essential role in production of new body cells for example RNA, DNA and haemoglobin. Hence, folate is highly essential for pregnant women for healthy growth of the foetus in the womb.

Folate together with vitamin B-12 helps form haemoglobin in the red blood cells, enabling them to carry optimal levels of oxygen.

Folate is involved in the elimination of an amino acid referred to as homocysteine, from the blood, which is one of the primary causes for the incidence of heart disease.

Protein

Sunflower seeds are a good source of plant protein, providing 6 grams or 12 percentage of the Daily Value per ounce. Protein supplies amino acids, the building block that builds, maintain and repair body tissues.

They are also a good source of proteins with good quality amino acids such as tryptophan that are necessary for growth, especially in children.

Iron

An ounce of sunflower seeds is a good source of iron, providing 10% of the Daily Value. Iron is vital for carrying oxygen to the lungs, through the blood, and to every cell in the body. Deficiency in iron can bring about anaemia, fatigue and infection.

Manganese

Sunflower seeds are a rich source of manganese, containing 37% of the daily value per quarter cup. Manganese is essential for the breakdown of enzymes, in the body, which would otherwise remain unused. Some of these include bone formation and production of thyroid hormones. An element of nerve-health Manganese helps defeat depression. Manganese also aids the process of synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol and help in the metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins. Insufficient levels of manganese in the body lead to the loss of hearing, dizziness, skin rash, bone loss and osteoporosis, extremely low cholesterol levels, and health factors associated with reproduction.

Zinc

A rather significant source of zinc, sunflower seeds enhance immune health and attack any type of infection invading the body.

Unsaturated Fats

Sunflower seeds and oil contain types of unsaturated fat that may protect the heart like monounsaturated oleic acid and polyunsaturated linoleic acid. Studies confirm that higher unsaturated fat diets may be far better low-fat diets because they lower LDL (low-density lipoprotein) referred to as bad cholesterol and triglycerides, maintaining positive high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, improving lipid profile.

Vitamin B6

Sunflower seeds are a good source of B-6, which is necessary to alleviate depression.

Fibre

Sunflower seeds contain fibre in abundance promoting good health by helping to lower blood cholesterol, control blood glucose levels and prevent constipation.

Minerals

Because of their high mineral content, Sunflower seeds act as an all-natural pH defense. One of the best methods for shielding the body against the unwanted effects of Morgellons disease, cancer, and other degenerative diseases is by maintaining optimal pH levels that is to some degree on the alkaline side.

Other Uses

The Black Oil Sunflower Seeds are normally used for feeding birds. Seeds used as bird food are known as Sunflower Hearts.

The inedible shell or hull of these fruits is used for manufacture of biomass fuel. According to researches, Sunflower oil can be used as a renewable bio-source for producing Hydrogen.

Sunflower seeds make a healthy alternative to chewing tobacco.

Tired of fried, salty, sodium-laden and unhealthy snacks that leave you feeling fat and bloated?

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Health Advantages of Peanuts

Helps Promote Fertility (Folate) Peanuts possess a great deal of folate. Repeated research indicates that women who had a daily intake of 400 micrograms of folic acid before and during early pregnancy reduced their likelihood of having a baby born with a serious neural tube defect by up to 70%.

Aids in Blood Sugar Regulation (Manganese) One fourth cup of peanuts can provide the body with 35% of the DV of manganese, a mineral which plays a role in fat and carbohydrate metabolism, calcium absorption, and blood glucose regulation.

Helps Prevent Gallstones It may come as a shock that peanuts can assist prevent gallstones. Two decades of studies have shown that eating 1 ounce of nuts, peanuts or peanut butter a week lowers the risk of developing gallstones by 25%.

Helps Fight Depression (Tryptophan) Peanuts are good sources of tryptophan, an important amino acid which is important for the production of serotonin, one of the key brain chemicals associated with mood regulation. When depression occurs, a decreased amount of serotonin may be released from the nerve cells in the brain. Tryptophan may raise serotonin’s antidepressant effects when there is an elevated amount of serotonin in the blood.

Boosts Memory Power (Vitamin B3) Do you know what can be found in peanuts that gives them the “brain food” tag? Their vitamin B3 or niacin content whose many health benefits include normal brain functioning and boosting memory power.

Tired of fried, salty, sodium-laden and unhealthy snacks that leave you feeling fat and bloated? Rest easy, we have the perfect snack you've been waiting for! Naturally dehydrated and packed with Heart-Healthy Macadamia Nuts, Mix of Other Raw Nuts, Energy Rich Seed Kernels and Beneficial Dried Fruits, SNAX is Nature's answer to your current snacking woes.

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Health Benefits of Cashew Nuts

We have always seemed to take a liking to cashew nuts for their outstanding taste without actually ever knowing all the health advantages they provide. Delicately sweet yet crunchy and delicious cashew nut is packed with energy, antioxidants, minerals and vitamins that are important for robust health. The health advantages of cashews include a healthy heart, strong nerve and muscle function, improved bone and dental health, respite from diabetes, anemia and gallstones. By providing antioxidant defenses, they also assist in the formation of red blood cells and encourage a much better immune system.

The kidney shaped nuts can be eaten, independently as a snack and they are often used in cooking as well. Adding cashews to your balanced diet can have numerous advantages and here are ten of the health benefits of cashew nuts:

Prevents Cancer:

Rich source of flavonoid make cashew helpful against cancer. They have a flavonoid called proanthocyanidins which inhibits the development of tumours and prevents the growth of cancer cells. Furthermore, cashews are a good way to obtain copper, which help remove free radicals from the body.

Healthy Heart:

Another one of the important health advantages of cashew nuts is that cashews can boost the health of your heart. Most of the fat that cashews contain is the same healthy, oleic acid that is found in olive oil. Research has revealed that oleic acid reduces triglyceride levels, which is associated with the onset of coronary disease. Cashews are also cholesterol free and contain antioxidants, that assist to forestall heart diseases.

Weight Reduction:

Cashew nut is a highly fatty food but with good fat and 75% of the fat is unsaturated. Unsaturated fats provide more energy to the body, facilitating the body’s metabolism. This can help one slim down, only when consumed reasonably.

Healthy Nerves:

Advantages of cashew nuts are uncountable. The existence of magnesium in cashews makes your nerve healthy as it deposits on the bones surface and prevents calcium from entering into the nerve cells. Therefore, your muscles and blood vessels get relaxed.

Brain Food:

Cashew nuts are considered as brain food as they play a primary role in brain development. Our brain depends on two kinds of fats - polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats for the production of it’s brain cells. Cashew contains both of these fats. It also improves oxygen circulation to the brain, which helps in enhancing one’s memory. Especially to build intelligent and sharp brain, cashews should be included for youngsters in their diet.

Good during Pregnancy:

Cashew nuts are very good for expectant mothers and they should consume it regularly. Cashew nuts are full of vitamin C, which slow down the process of gaining and forestall tissue damage during pregnancy. Stretch marks are common during pregnancy but if you consume cashew nuts regularly, then they will prevent your skin from marks. Cashew nuts provide iron to our bodies which is critical especially if you’re pregnant.

Promotes Healthy Hair:

Having cashew nuts daily can give you long black shiny hair. Cashew nuts prevent grey hair and make them smooth soft and shiny. Copper is the main mineral which helps to provide color to your hair. Consuming Cashews provides your body with a high copper content which provides you with healthy hair.

Prevent Gallstones:

Gallstones are hard masses typically located in the gallbladder or the bile duct, and can be caused from cholesterol in the bile that is not broken down properly due to its fatty nature. Research has also shown that eating nuts such as cashews were helpful in preventing gallstones in women.

Bone Health:

Cashews are full of magnesium and copper. Copper plays a part in a wide range of physiological processes including iron utilization, removal of free radicals, development of bone and connective tissue. Magnesium is also vital for healthy bones. About two-thirds of the magnesium in the human body is located in our bones. Magnesium balances the calcium level in our body and thus helps to regulate nerve and muscle tone.

Diabetes:

Cashews work with a person’s lipid profile and provide beneficial impact on those with diabetes or at risk of diabetes. These nuts assist in reducing triglyceride levels in diabetes patients that protect them from further cholesterol and sugar related problems. Integrating frequent intake of Cashews into your diet, especially raw cashews, may lower the potential risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes.

Thus, we can say cashews are a great way to keep you healthy. All you need to do is to consume it moderately on a regular basis. Also, do make sure not to over process it by frying or excessive roasting so as not to destroy the nutrients even before they enter your body.

Tired of fried, salty, sodium-laden and unhealthy snacks that leave you feeling fat and bloated? Rest easy, we have the perfect snack you've been waiting for! Naturally dehydrated and packed with Heart-Healthy Macadamia Nuts, Mix of Other Raw Nuts, Energy Rich Seed Kernels and Beneficial Dried Fruits, SNAX is Nature's answer to your current snacking woes.