Macadamia nuts: benefits and harm for the human body

Macadamia is considered the most expensive nut in the world. The main reason for the high cost is the labor intensity of processing and collection. Its shell is very hard and it is difficult to remove the kernels. The main supplier is Australia. On this continent, the indigenous people equated the nut with the fruit of the gods, and all thanks to the huge number of beneficial properties.

What kind of nut is this

Macadamia is a genus of woody plants in the Proteaceae family. Today, only 2 of the 5 species are cultivated. There are plantations in Brazil, Australia, California, South Africa and Hawaii. The plant is resistant to natural conditions, capable of growing at altitudes up to 750 m above sea level, withstanding relatively low temperatures for tropical latitudes (+3°C).

Reference! Since the plants are cultivated mainly in tropical countries, and the nuts are collected by hand, they have a high cost in Europe.

The macadamia tree begins to produce fruit at 8–10 years of age. The biological period of nut ripening in nature is March – September, but sometimes fruiting occurs all year round. The fruits have an ideal spherical shape, a diameter of 1.5–2 cm, covered with a greenish-brown shell with a core that is difficult to separate from the shell. The aroma is pronounced sweet aroma. The kernels taste similar to hazelnuts, but are fattier with a rich creamy chocolate flavor.

Chemical composition

Nuts are high in calories (718 kcal) and contain a lot of fat (75.8 g). The amount of protein per 100 g is 7.9 g, carbohydrates - 5.2 g.

The glycemic index is low - 15 units.

The chemical composition is varied and includes:

• alimentary fiber;
• sugars: glucose, fructose, sucrose;
• starch and dextrins;
• B vitamins: B1, B2, B5, B6, B9;
• vitamin C;
• vitamin E;
• vitamin PP;
• macroelements: potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, sulfur, phosphorus;
• trace elements: iron, manganese, copper, selenium, zinc;
• amino acids: aspartic, glutamic, serine, proline, glycine, leucine, arginine, methionine, tyrosine, alanine;
• omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9;
• saturated, mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids: arachidic, stearic, linoleic, behenic, palmitic, margaric, gadoleic, myristic, oleic;
• essential oils.

Properties

The benefits of macadamia for the body are undeniable . The components of the composition have antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, adsorbent, and antispasmodic effects.

Vitamins and minerals are required for the normal functioning of the heart and blood vessels, visual and reproductive systems, digestive organs, and the proper functioning of all types of metabolism. The kernels are used as an antimicrobial, antibacterial, diuretic, and choleretic agent.

Vitamins and minerals found in macadamia nuts

Vitamins:

B1 – 1.195 mg, B2 – 0.162 mg, B3 – 0.758 mg, B6 – 0.275 mg, B9 – 11 mcg, C – 1.2 mg, E – 0.54 mg, PP – 2.473 mg.

Minerals:

calcium – 85 mg, magnesium – 130 mg, sodium – 5 mg, potassium – 368 mg, phosphorus – 188 mg, iron – 3.69 mg, zinc – 1.3 mg, copper – 756 mcg, manganese – 4.131 mg, selenium – 3.6 mcg.

Read useful information about other nuts:

Cashew Brazil nut Chestnut Pine nut Coconut Almond Nutmeg Pistachio Hazelnut Walnut

What is useful for men

The beneficial properties of macadamia nut for men are associated with its diverse chemical composition, where all components and each individually ensure the active functioning of the body.

For the body as a whole

Macadamia nut is an additional source of vitamins, micro- and macroelements, amino acids, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, dietary fiber, which are important for maintaining health and well-being, as well as preventing male diseases.

The product strengthens the nervous and digestive systems, improves the condition of the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and relieves stress on the liver. Kernels are important for healthy teeth and bones. During the cold season, this vitamin remedy protects against infections and strengthens the immune system.

Another beneficial property of the nut is its beneficial effect on the skin. Macadamia oil is rich in palmitic acid (6 g per 100 g), which repairs damage and creates a protective barrier for dry and mature skin.

Vitamins and minerals tone, stimulate collagen production and blood microcirculation, slow down the aging process, and neutralize the negative effects of UV rays. The oil removes irritation, moisturizes, is effective for eliminating scars and burns, and does not cause an allergic reaction.

Protein is important for the full growth and formation of muscle tissue, participates in the life of cells and the body’s protective response to external and internal stimuli.

Reference! Athletes and people involved in strenuous physical, mental and emotional work are recommended to regularly consume macadamia nuts. They restore physical strength well, increase endurance and performance, and put the nervous system in order.

Despite its high calorie content, macadamia helps to lose weight. To lose weight, kernels are consumed in limited quantities, otherwise, due to the high fat content, the opposite effect will appear.

What causes weight loss:

• Omega-3 reduces the level of bad cholesterol in the blood, accelerates the breakdown of fats, stimulates metabolism;
• dietary fiber provides quick and long-term satiety, due to which there is no need for snacks, more energy is consumed than is supplied with food, and the body begins to use up fat reserves;
• pectin cleanses the gastrointestinal tract, stimulates intestinal motility, has a laxative effect, forms and maintains normal microflora;
• polyphenols have choleretic and diuretic properties, remove excess fluid, relieve swelling;
• organic acids regulate lipid metabolism, dissolve fat deposits, and improve digestion.

For male diseases

Regular consumption of macadamia prevents the development of many male diseases or alleviates existing ones . The kernels have anti-inflammatory properties, help with epididymitis, prostatitis, orchitis, urethritis, balanoposthitis.

The pronounced antioxidant properties of the nut reduce the risk of developing tumor diseases (testicular cancer, prostate cancer). Thanks to the diuretic properties of the kernels, impaired urination is restored.

For the treatment and prevention of male diseases, macadamia is used as an antimicrobial and antibacterial agent. Active biological components completely destroy harmful microorganisms or suppress their growth, preventing damage to nearby organs and systems.

Effect on potency

Nuts have a beneficial effect on male sexual performance. Zinc and selenium stimulate the production of testosterone, the male sex hormone.

Insufficiently strong erections are influenced by psychological factors, emotional tension, and stress. B vitamins contained in macadamia improve the condition of the nervous system, increase resistance to stress, reduce aggression, relieve irritability, normalize night sleep and improve the quality of sexual life.

Diseases of the cardiovascular system, diabetes, and obesity have a negative impact on the level of potency. Macadamia reduces the risk of developing these pathologies, and in case of existing diseases, it accelerates recovery and prevents complications, including impotence.

The nut enhances the functions of the gonads by stimulating blood circulation in the pelvic organs and minimizing congestion. Potassium and magnesium improve the passage of nerve impulses into the corpora cavernosa and maintain the smooth muscles of the penis in tone. Fats and vitamins activate metabolic processes, providing adequate nutrition to cavernous tissue and vascular endothelium.

Attention. The product is valuable for men's health due to the presence of folic acid. This vitamin improves sperm quality, increases sperm motility and vital activity, which serves as an effective prevention of infertility.

Uses of macadamia oil

From the fruits of the macadamia tree, an oil valuable in its properties is obtained, widely used in cosmetology. The process uses a cold-press method, thanks to which the product retains all its nutritional and healing qualities.

Walnut oil has an antioxidant, rejuvenating, moisturizing and restorative effect, is perfectly absorbed and has a wound-healing effect. It is beneficial to use macadamia oil for hair, nails and skin. The product is recommended as a massage product (for example, for cellulite), as well as for:

• skin diseases (abrasions, burns, inflammation);
• increased skin pigmentation;
• acne, post-acne;
• acne, scars;
• alopecia;
• dandruff, seborrhea;
• improper functioning of the sebaceous glands.

Macadamia oil normalizes collagen production in the skin, improves blood circulation, breaks down subcutaneous fats and promotes weight loss. In addition, the product cleanses the body of waste and toxins, removes excess fluid from the body, and eliminates cellulite.

A mask with macadamia nut oil is indispensable for flaking, dryness and irritation. Massage products based on the product relieve joint and muscle pain; for greater effectiveness, the procedure is carried out after a warming bath in a warm room (bath or sauna).

Walnut oil is good for the health and beauty of hair. Serum with macadamia nut oil, obtained from this product, makes hair shiny and more manageable, prevents the formation of split ends, and nourishes hair follicles.

Due to its rich chemical composition and numerous healing properties, nut oil is also used in cooking. The product is used as a healthy additive to salads or in its pure form.

One teaspoon of oil before meals will provide the body with all the necessary minerals and vitamins, improve the functioning of the digestive system, and strengthen blood vessels and the heart.

How to properly consume macadamia for men

The kernels are eaten fresh or pre-fried. Small and crushed fruits are added to vegetable and fruit salads, seafood, desserts, baked goods, and served with meat and poultry.

Norms per day

Nutritionists recommend eating no more than 100 g of nuts per day (8–12 fruits depending on size) due to their high calorie content and high fat content . For people prone to obesity and in the presence of contraindications, the number of nuts is reduced to 2–8 per day.

It is better to include macadamia in the diet in the first half of the day, since the kernels take a long time to be absorbed and digested. You should not eat nuts in the evening or before bed. For better absorption, peeled fruits are soaked in water for 1.5–2 hours, but no more, so as not to completely remove all fatty acids.

Cooking recipes with macadamia nuts

“Cake” of nuts and dried fruits

100 g of cashews and almonds, and 200 g of prunes and dates, as well as macadamia nuts, carob and Jerusalem artichoke syrup.

Soak all nuts and dried fruits except macadamia in water for 2-3 hours. Grind each product separately in a blender. Pour into layers into the pie dish and refrigerate for 2-3 hours. In a blender, grind macadamia and syrup with a spoon of carob. Drizzle glaze over finished product.

Diet cheesecake with nuts

100-120 g macadamia nuts for decoration, 1 kg low-fat cottage cheese, agar or jam thickener, 2 eggs with yolks, a tablespoon of corn starch, the same amount of bran, 3 whites.

Make a dough from bran and starch together with proteins. Pour into the bottom of the cheesecake pan and bake at 180 degrees for 15 minutes. Grind the cottage cheese together with the egg in a blender, add thickener and sweetener, beat into a thick, homogeneous mass. Pour on top, cook for another 30-40 minutes without changing the temperature. Chop the nuts with a sharp knife and sprinkle the finished product with nut crumbs.

Fruit salad

Freeze 2-3 bananas, cut as you like, 200 g strawberries, 120 g guava, and 200 g sweet pear, sprinkle with flax seeds, leave. Grind the bananas with 100 g of macadamia in a powerful blender, mix the salad with banana-nut sauce.

How to select, clean and store

Macadamia nuts are sold in supermarkets or online stores. The cost of the product varies greatly and depends on the country of origin, place and city of sale.

On average, 1 kg of unshelled nuts costs between 1000–1300 rubles, without shells - 3000–3600 rubles.

The beneficial properties of nuts for the male body depend on the quality of the product itself. The fruit shell should not have any signs of damage, foreign odors, musty odors, or mold.

Advice! Nutritionists recommend buying nuts in shell, as it serves as a kind of protection against pests, bacteria and other unfavorable factors that negatively affect the taste and beneficial properties of the kernels. The shell is used as a medicinal raw material for the treatment and prevention of various diseases.

When purchasing peeled fruits, it is important to choose unroasted kernels. In this form, they retain their taste and do not contain extraneous spices, preservatives or other additives.

It is difficult to separate the kernel from the shell, so suppliers make special notches and holes on each of them. Next, the fruit is opened with a special metal key.

The product is stored in an airtight glass jar, vacuum bag in the refrigerator or cool room. Peeled kernels are suitable for consumption for 12 months, in shell - 24 months at a temperature of +8...+25⁰С, relative humidity no more than 75%.

Selection and storage of nuts

How to choose

Unshelled nuts that are round or slightly oval in shape are more common. The macadamia shell is dense and difficult to separate from the kernel.

When purchasing, be guided by the following signs:

• fresh and fully ripened fruits are heavy;
• the shell is not damaged;
• the core is smooth, without wrinkles;
• the nut is even, bright milky in color, slightly shiny;
• the flesh is fatty and easy to chew;
• the taste is sweetish, without bitterness;
• almost no smell, reminiscent of hazelnut aroma;
• the packaging must not allow moisture to pass through and be hermetically sealed;
• main exporters: Australia, China, South Africa, Mexico.

It is better to buy products without additional ingredients (sugar, chocolate, honey, spices, salt). Raw nuts are more valuable than roasted ones.

Storage rules

Since the kernels absorb foreign odors well, it is better to store them away from food, in a cool place. The nuts are placed in an airtight container and placed in a dark place with low humidity.

• In the shell, nuts retain their properties for 2 years.
• Peeled kernels are stored in the refrigerator for 4 months, in the freezer for six months. When exposed to air, they quickly deteriorate and acquire a rancid taste. Vacuum bags will extend the shelf life up to 1 year.
• Salted or sweet nuts are stored in the refrigerator for no longer than a month, after which they lose most of their beneficial qualities.

Read about the benefits and harms of Brazil nuts here.

Be healthy!

Benefits and uses of shells

The shell, like the kernels, has a rich chemical composition and contains many essential oils, minerals, and vitamins.

A medicinal tincture is prepared on its basis:

1. Separate the shells from 50 nuts, transfer them to an airtight glass container, pour in 1 liter of vodka, add 1 tsp. sugar, stir.
2. The tincture with the lid closed is left in a dark place for 3 weeks.
3. The strained infusion is taken every day, 1 tsp. within a month.

The remedy strengthens the immune system, cleanses the liver, heart and blood vessels, normalizes blood flow, and protects against infections. The tincture is contraindicated for people with alcohol addiction, children, adolescents, pregnant and lactating women.

The shell makes a delicious aromatic tea. This drink calms the nervous system, improves sleep quality, improves mood, and has a beneficial effect on metabolism.

Chemical composition and nutritional value

Currently, the tree is widely cultivated in many exotic countries. The plant is highly resistant to weather disasters and can withstand temperatures quite low for these countries.

The Australian macadamia nut has a hard shell and a hard-to-separate kernel that tastes like hazelnuts. The fruits of the tree are difficult to collect, which is why macadamia nuts are the most expensive nut in the world.

Macadamia fruits are distinguished by a high content of minerals and vitamins, their amount is significantly higher than that of other nuts. The composition of macadamia nuts includes components beneficial to the body:

• fatty acids (oleic, palmitoleic, stearic, linoleic, palmitic);
• saccharides;
• ash;
• alimentary fiber;
• starch;
• amino acids;
• vitamins A, B, C, PP;
• macro- and microelements (magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, iron).

The rich chemical composition determines the high calorie content of macadamia nuts per 100 grams. accounts for 718 kcal. The fruits contain enormous nutritional value; just a few nuts can replenish the body’s daily need for minerals and vitamins.

Contraindications and possible harm

An absolute contraindication for eating nuts is an allergy to the product. Exclude or limit macadamia for diagnosed diseases of the digestive system in the acute stage, obesity of 3-4 degrees, severe diabetes mellitus, low blood pressure, severe renal or liver failure.

Eating nuts within normal limits does not harm health: they act gently and effectively on the body. Possible harm to kernels is associated with their frequent and abundant use and the presence of contraindications. People with gastrointestinal problems have a high risk of exacerbation of diseases, bloating, vomiting, nausea, flatulence, colic, and pain.

Reference! The product is toxic to dogs. It is not known exactly what amount causes intoxication, but the first symptoms appear after 12 hours in the form of fever, vomiting, and weakness of the muscles of the hind limbs.

Macadamia has a high degree of allergenicity and, if the permissible limit is exceeded, especially in persons allergic to the product, it can cause skin rashes, dermatitis, and swelling.

This is interesting:

Eating walnuts for weight loss.

Useful properties of Brazil nuts for women.

Role in weight loss

Consuming macadamia nuts wisely is known to actually help you lose weight. Many people do not understand how this high-calorie product contributes to the process of weight loss.

The composition contains palmitoleic acid, which speeds up metabolism and helps get rid of excess fat reserves.

Using macadamia nuts as a snack saturates the body with healthy fats, gradually reducing cravings for sweets. The body learns to live not on carbohydrates, but on healthy fats. This is extremely important for maintaining the results achieved in losing weight.

Plant fiber has a positive effect on the intestinal microflora, cleansing it of waste and toxins, which is also important when losing weight.

Antioxidants and omega-9 fatty acids strengthen the immune system and help cope with chronic inflammatory processes in the body, which often cause obesity.

A nut snack gives you energy and has a positive effect on a person’s mental state. And this, as you know, also plays a role in proper nutrition. Many overeating occurs precisely because of nervousness and during periods of stress.

In order for a high-calorie nut to be beneficial and promote weight loss, it is important not just to start eating it in addition to your usual food. It is necessary to replace food with them, and not supplement, for example, nuts instead of flour and sweets. Otherwise, excess weight will only begin to increase.

Macadamia in cosmetology

Due to its unique restorative properties, macadamia oil is widely used in cosmetology. It can be used as a stand-alone product or as part of various cosmetic products. Regular use of creams and masks allows you to achieve such effects as tightening the facial skin, reducing facial wrinkles, evening out complexion, and removing age-related pigmentation. For its unsurpassed qualities, the oil was called the Australian elixir of youth.

Cosmetics based on macadamia oil can be used for thin, sensitive and allergy-prone skin. Creams and lotions are quickly absorbed without leaving a sticky feeling on the face and body.

Macadamia oil can speed up the process of skin regeneration - it is used to treat various wounds, abrasions and burns. With regular use, they even get rid of scars, scars, and cellulite.

Shampoos and balms with macadamia oil work wonders - strengthen hair follicles, accelerate growth, restore damaged hair, restoring its shine and beauty. This effect occurs due to the oil’s ability to enhance blood microcirculation in the scalp.

Reviews

Reviews about the beneficial properties of macadamia nuts for men's health are contradictory. This is due to the fact that the components of the composition affect each organism differently, and their effectiveness depends on the general state of health, lifestyle, the presence of concomitant diseases, sexual and family relationships.

Boris, 48 ​​years old: “I was diagnosed with prostatitis. In combination with the main treatment, I ate 8 macadamia nuts daily. The result was not long in coming. After just 3 weeks, erectile abilities were restored, and the desire and opportunity to live a healthy, full sex life appeared.”

Nikolai, 52 years old: “A cardiologist advised me to eat macadamia to treat diabetes. I was pleasantly surprised when after just a week of eating nuts, the penis became more elastic, the erection lasted longer, and libido increased.”

Vyacheslav, 31 years old: “ I can’t say that macadamia is an absolutely useless product for men’s health, but it did not solve my problem of impaired erection. Therefore, I recommend that all men who are faced with erectile dysfunction do not waste time on treatment with folk remedies, but urgently seek qualified medical help. Perhaps, in combination with other therapeutic measures, the nut will show its effectiveness, but for this it is important to adjust the overall diet.”

How to crack a nut

Macadamia nuts are very hard, making them difficult to crack. One of the simplest and most accessible methods is to use a hammer and a clamping device (eg pliers). Clamp the nut so that its seam can be hit with a hammer. Be careful not to let it slip in the pliers. Hit with a hammer. If you fail to crack the nut the first time, repeat the blow.

Instead of a clamping device, you can use a porous stone (eg limestone) by placing the nut in the hole. Its half should be on top, like the seam.

Watch out for fragments of the casing - it can fly apart, which can get into your eyes!

Tips for use

Now you know how many calories are contained in macadamia nuts in different weight categories. In conclusion, here are some tips:

1. As you remember, the product contains a huge amount of fat, so it is not recommended to eat it on an empty stomach;
2. You are allowed to consume no more than 5 pieces at a time. Symptoms of overeating – nausea, vomiting, headache, upset bowel movements;
3. Never eat spoiled fruit - moldy kernels can be toxic;
4. The exotic nut often causes allergies. If you are prone to this misfortune, first test your reaction by eating half of 1 piece;

That's all. Knowing the calorie content and nutritional composition of the nut, you can safely start creating a menu for the day. Bon appetit!

Beneficial properties of macadamia for the female body

In addition to all of the above, although, you see, this is also a considerable benefit, the nut is very useful for girls and women. For young women, it can help cope with painful menstruation and headaches by relieving cramps.

For more mature women, it can be a salvation for reducing unpleasant symptoms during menopause.

For young girls who have difficulty conceiving, it is also recommended to eat this product; it helps to normalize the functions of the reproductive system. For those who are already expecting a baby, this nut can help prevent anemia, as it is an excellent source of iron.

By the way, for those who value natural cosmetics, you need to know that macadamia oil is often found in good cosmetics, as it moisturizes the skin well and protects against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. With constant use, you will notice that your complexion has improved, fine wrinkles have smoothed out, and the area around the eyes has become lighter.

In the form of a hair mask, nut oil is used as a means to strengthen the hair follicle and prevent hair loss. This oil penetrates deep into the skin, acting on the roots themselves.

Possible side effects

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Macadamia nuts are undoubtedly a very tasty and healthy product. But this product also contains a lot of phosphorus, which should not be abused by people with kidney problems. In addition, nuts are allergens, and this is also important to remember. And dog lovers should know that the Australian nut is dangerous for their pets, as it causes very severe poisoning in animals, accompanied by weakness.