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The human body is like a machine. If not cared for properly, it starts to falter. So many health issues arise just because we have not kept our bodies in proper condition. Being negligent is your own fault and it can lead to serious problems as far as a person’s health is concerned. After all, health is wealth.

What we consume is an important factor when it comes to the health of our bodies. Be it solid or liquid, what goes in determines how things are. Of course, quantity matters as well. One should never overdo it. A balanced diet is the key. Whether you are taking in jackfruit, tamarind or red rice, the balance is the key.

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A new item that can be added to the balanced diet are Brazil nuts. They are a good option to boost the health of one’s body. In reality, Brazil nuts are edible seeds from the Brazil nut tree. The nuts grow inside a shell that looks like a coconut from the outside. One can find anywhere from 12 to 20 Brazil nuts in a shell.

Of course, it would be hasty not to ask about the health benefits of Brazil nuts. One should know how they help if one is going to consider trying them. Well, let’s find out about the health benefits of Brazil nuts as far as the human body is concerned:

1. Selenium

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Brazil nuts have a high level of the mineral selenium. In fact, when it comes to richness, they are the best source of this nutrient. Selenium is needed for a healthy immune system. One Brazil nut can consist of 68-91mcg of selenium.

2. Monounsaturated fat

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These nuts are high in monounsaturated fat (MUFA). This helps in blood flow and blood pressure plus boosts the energy of the body. Another reason to try Brazil nuts.

3. Brain Health

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Brazil nuts possess a plant chemical or called ellagic acid. This has protective and anti-inflammatory properties and provides neuroprotective effects along with anti-depressant effects on the brain. Studies also indicate that selenium helps to support brain signalling pathways like GABA and dopamine signalling inside the central nervous system.

4. Cholesterol

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Because of Brazil nuts' heart-healthy mono and polyunsaturated fatty acid profile along with high fibre and mineral rich content, they are known to bring down total and LDL cholesterol levels (‘bad cholesterol’). A single serving is enough to make lipid profiles better.

5. Thyroid Health

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Selenium is essential for healthy thyroid function. Research indicates that eating Brazil nuts could improve thyroid hormone levels among people who were deficient. No wonder Brazil nuts are a good addition to a balanced diet.

6. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

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Brazil nuts have a lot of protective antioxidants that can assist in protecting the cells from oxidative damage. Selenium makes sure that the glutathione peroxidase levels go up. This is an enzyme that brings down inflammation.

7. Balance of Mood

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Low selenium levels can cause disorders related to a person's mood along with depression. A study showed that these symptoms went down after only five weeks of consuming 100mcg selenium a day, which is the equivalent of about 1- 1.5 Brazil nuts. It certainly works wonders for the health of the human body.

8. Supports Immune System

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Selenium boosts immunity and goes a long way in helping wounds heal. Brazil nuts have vitamin E along with ellagic and gallic acid which make our defence mechanisms better.

Conclusion

Now of course, Brazil nuts also have their share of cons. If there are pros then the other side needs to be looked at as well. They can cause allergies in certain individuals. It is best to consult a specialist if one has any doubts. Make sure you do not ingest too much selenium because selenosis may result in hair fall and brittle nails.

However, the pros outweigh the cons. If one keeps it in moderation and knows how much of it to take, then one should be fine. Proper consultation goes a long way in ensuring there are no side-effects. All one has to do is maintain the balance. It is called a balanced diet for a reason.

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As long as one does not have an allergy, Brazil nuts are a healthy addition to a balanced diet. They taste good too so no harm enjoying a little while keeping oneself in good health. It’s all about doing what is best for the body.

So what do you think? Are the reasons good enough to start having Brazil nuts? Why not give it a try? If you do not like it, you can always stop. If you like it later, you can always start again. That’s the beauty of a balanced diet. If you already are eating them, more power to you! If you have not started yet, what is stopping you?

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