Health Benefits

we’re nuts about your health

Macadamia Nuts are being described as an “underestimated nutrient powerhouse”; a superfood; the queen nut; a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals; the world’s finest nut!”

Full of nature’s own goodness coming from the rich nutrient soils on the South Coast of Kwa-Zulu Natal, with plenty of rainfall and sunshine, Mac-Eden’s proudly South African supply of macadamia nuts are brimming with fantastic health benefits and nutritional value.

Briefly listed below are just some of the excellent health benefits still being discovered in the “magic macadamia”.

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Improves Brain Health and the Nervous System

Macadamia nuts are considered one of the highest food sources of Omega-9. This fatty-acid improves mood and enhances memory as well as prevents several neurological diseases. Macadamias contain copper, B1, magnesium, and manganese which helps to make healthy neurotransmitters, the chemicals which our brain cells use to send chemical signals, and nourish the brain. Another important component of macs is oleic acid (the same healthy fat found in olive oil) which lowers blood pressure thereby preventing strokes and damage to brain health. Another acid in the nuts is palmitoleic acid, which also is an important component of myelin (myelin is a fatty layer that protects nerve cells in the brain).

IMPROVES BRAIN HEALTH AND THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

Supports Gut Health

Macadamias contain around 7% dietary fiber of both the insoluble and soluble types, helping to not only promote satiety, but provide roughage sweeping toxins out of the body. The nuts are also particularly rich in copper that supports the enzymatic reactions that improve digestive health.

SUPPORTS GUT HEALTH

Improves Blood Sugar Levels for Diabetics

Studies have shown how tree nuts (including macadamia nuts) can improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. Macs have a unique profile of macro and micronutrients and other bioactive compounds that help improve blood sugar levels and counter the ill effects of diabetes.

IMPROVES BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS FOR DIABETICS

Improves Bone Health

Phosphorus and magnesium are abundant in macadamias, and play a variety of roles including bone and teeth mineralization, metabolism, absorption and transportation of nutrients. Calcium also helps in the formation of teeth and bones. The Manganese in macadamias also helps the body to deposit new bone tissue so that the skeleton stays strong as you age ( prevents bone demineralization).

IMPROVES BONE HEALTH

Relieves Inflammation

Macadamias are much lower in omega-6s containing only 0.36g per 100g than for example pecans which contain 3.7g per 100g, or almonds 3.4g, and cashews 2.2g . It is by consuming too many omega-6 fatty acids in our diet that it can be a contributing factor to chronic inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a variety of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and other life-threatening conditions. Macadamia nuts are also a good source of alpha-linolenic acid which is a type of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acid.

RELIEVES INFLAMMATION

Boosts healthy fats, metabolism and Energy

Macadamia nuts are rich in monounsaturated fats – the healthy fats. These fatty acids can accelerate fat metabolism while the complex carbs found in the nuts can give you the energy burst you need in a sustained form.

BOOSTS HEALTHY FATS, METABOLISM AND ENERGY

Strengthens Hair, Skin and Nails

Macadamias are an excellent source of protein, calcium, potassium, dietary fiber and antioxidants. They are also very low in sodium. The palmitoleic acid is known to treat dry skin and hair. By massaging hair regularly with macadamia nut oil it stimulates hair growth, prevents hair breakage , controls frizz, hydrates, rebuilds hair elasticity, strengthens hair follicles and makes it shine. All in all, macadamia nuts are a fabulous beauty food, giving your hair and nails a healthy sheen and your skin a nourished glow!

STRENGTHENS HAIR, SKIN AND NAILS

Relieves Stress and helps fight Cancer

These nuts are loaded with Flavonoids, which convert into antioxidants in the body. These anti-oxidants then search and destroy free radicals. By countering high levels of free-radicals the body is helped to reduce stress and decrease the risk of certain types of cancer.

RELIEVES STRESS AND HELPS FIGHT CANCER

Promotes Heart Health

These nuts are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats which are said to be cardioprotective by reducing cholesterol level and help to clean the arteries. Macadamia also lowers the level of triglycerides, which is a kind of body fat and reduces the risk of coronary disease. The nuts are also believed to lower blood pressure – thereby contributing to heart health. Certain sources attribute this quality of macadamia nuts to their potassium content.

PROMOTES HEART HEALTH

Aids Weight Loss by curbing appetite

The fat content of macadamias helps to curb your appetite much longer than a sweet treat. Macadamias are also a source of palmitoleic acid which increases fat metabolism and reduces fat storage! You only need a few to feel satisfied as a snack, so despite their price, you won't need many to get a hunger-busting, nutrient-rich fix. Although higher in calories, Macadamia’s are low in carbohydrates compared to other nuts and high in fibre!

HEALTH BENEFITS