Brazil nuts, a source of selenium

Cinzia Cuneo October 25, 2014 Nuts

The Brazil nut, also known as Amazonian nut or Brazilian chestnut, is the seed contained in the fruit shell of the Amazonian nut tree, which grows in the subtropical regions of America. It is the single most important crop in the Amazon region.

It can be eaten as is or in desserts, and it tastes somewhat like hazelnuts. It’s also possible to extract vegetable oil from it.

Rich in calories and protein, it is the all-round champion in selenium, as a single nut provides the recommended daily intake. This trace element, which the human body can’t do without, is generally present in trace amounts in foods. It protects against cell ageing and is associated with the prevention of cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Originally published in the Journal de Montréal on October 25, 2014.

Author

Cinzia Cuneo

Cinzia Cuneo, founder of SOSCuisine.com, never wanted to neglect the quality of her food. She shares her special expertise to make good food quickly and without complications!