Macadamia nut: benefits and harm to the body

Macadamia (Macadamia) is an evergreen tree species that belongs to the Proteaceae family. Macadamia (the fruits of the tree of the same name) is a high-calorie nut native to Australia, also known as Queensland nut or Australian nut.

The history of macadamia began millions of years ago in the rainforests on the northeast coast of Australia. Prior to the European settlement, the aborigines collected fruits of evergreens. The nuts were very much appreciated by the tribes: as a rule, the fruits were used for special ceremonies or for trade. Aborigines collected nuts in clay bags and used them during the holidays. It’s not easy to break the walnut shell, so the Native Australians used stones that were sharpened so as not to damage the nut inside. Only in the 1950s did plants attract the attention of European botanists Walter Hill and Ferdinand von Mowler. They were captivated by the beauty of the trees that grew in the rainforests of Queensland. Australia is currently a leading exporter of macadamia (about 30%). In addition to Australia, the exporters of this product are Japan, Korea, Taiwan, China, Europe and North America.

Where and how macadamia grows

This tree species is cultivated in tropical countries such as Australia, Indonesia, Kenya, Brazil, New Zealand and Africa. Australian walnut prefers moist and organic soil. The fruit ripening period is about 3-4 months (from May to September).

The lifespan of this evergreen tree is over 100 years. The height of the plant is on average 15 m, it has smooth, dense leaves of an oval shape. The flowers are quite small, they have a white cream or pink color. Inflorescences have a spiral shape and a light sweetish smell, which is very attractive to bees. The fruits of macadamia have a fairly dense shell, which is not easy to break. A rounded nutlet with a diameter of 3.5 centimeters is hidden under the shell.

Taste of walnut

Nuts have a friable oily structure and a sweet, vanilla flavor. They can be eaten both raw and fried. As a rule, cooks use them as ingredients in vegetable salads and pastries.

Why macadamia is sweet and smells like vanilla

Macadamia nut itself has a sweetish taste. But quite often manufacturers to enhance the sweetness resort to the use of flavors, including vanilla, so many associate the taste of Australian walnut with this spice.

How much can I eat on the day of macadamia nut

The recommended daily intake is 80 grams (10-15 nuts). In case of gastrointestinal diseases, it is necessary to take breaks between doses (2-3 days). This amount will be more than enough to saturate the body.

Composition and calorie content

Macadamia nut is high in calories: 100 grams contains about 718 calories. Despite this, the product is not prohibited for those who are on a diet (no more than 30-40 grams per day).

Macadamia contains a wide range of nutrients: carbohydrates, vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin and folic acid, as well as magnesium, iron, calcium, zinc and copper.Speaking of acids, the Australian nut contains oleic, linoleic, palmitic and alpha-linolenic. Most of the nuts are made up of oils, and also contain protein (9.0%), carbohydrates (9.3%), water (1.5%), minerals (1.6%) and fiber (2.0%). .

What is useful macadamia nut

General benefit

Supports Heart Health
Regular consumption of macadamia nut has a beneficial effect on the body, as the substances contained in the fruits help regulate cholesterol. The inclusion of macadamia in the diet helps lower total cholesterol, as well as low-density cholesterol (LDL). Too high an LDL level quite often causes plaque formation in the arteries, which in turn increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Nuts are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, which affect platelets, making blood less thick, which reduces the likelihood of clots in blood vessels, preventing a heart attack and stroke. In men whose diets include a large amount of macadamia, the risk of death from heart disease is lower than in others, since monounsaturated fats found in nuts improve the blood lipid profile.

Eating nuts also helps lower blood pressure. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a risk factor for diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke, heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, loss of vision, and chronic kidney disease. Macadamia nuts are virtually sodium free and rich in potassium, which helps control blood pressure. In addition, nuts contain a large amount of omega-9 monounsaturated fatty acid called oleic. A high oleic acid diet helps lower blood pressure.

Regulates blood sugar
Macadamia nuts are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are very beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes. Omega-7 palmitoleic acid is necessary for the normal functioning of the liver, since it can increase the body's sensitivity to insulin, inhibiting the destruction of pancreatic cells that produce insulin.

Supports Brain Health
Macadamia nuts contain substances that have a beneficial effect on the brain. For example, oleic helps regulate blood pressure, thereby supporting brain health. Palmitoleic acid is an important component of myelin (a fatty layer that protects brain nerve cells). A few other nutrients in macadamia nuts are copper, vitamin B1, manganese, and magnesium, which support the production of neurotransmitters. In addition, omega-9 has a beneficial effect on mood, memory and prevents some neurological diseases.

Supports bone health
Macadamia nuts are a good source of calcium, magnesium, and potassium, three minerals that help prevent bone demineralization. Phosphorus, which is also rich in nuts, contributes to the mineralization of bone tissue, and a sufficient amount of manganese can prevent kidney disease, thereby affecting the ability to properly absorb calcium.

Supports Bowel Health
Nuts contain soluble and insoluble fiber, which helps to remove toxins from the body, and also helps digestion. Nuts also contain copper. It helps maintain enzymatic reactions that improve digestion. The oleic acid content of macadamia nuts can help prevent ulcerative colitis. A study was conducted on this topic, which showed that those people who consumed oleic acid daily were less likely to develop ulcerative colitis than those who did not.

Relieves inflammation
Eating macadamia nuts regularly can help relieve inflammation associated with coronary heart disease.Macadamia nuts are also an excellent source of alpha-linolenic acid, which helps treat inflammation and prevents arthritis.

Help treat anemia
Macadamia nuts contain iron, which is an effective assistant in the treatment of anemia, and a sufficient amount of this element in the body can prevent this disease.

Gives energy
Complex carbohydrates found in nuts can increase energy levels, and fats support this level.

Increase metabolism
Monounsaturated fatty acids contained in nuts can speed up the metabolism, and regular use of this product will reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome.

Lowers stress
Macadamia nuts can help reduce oxidative stress. This is due to the fact that antioxidants fight free radicals, which just can lead to this stress. Macadamia nuts also contain high-quality protein, it helps the body control blood sugar and provide a constant flow of energy.

Skin health improvement
Fatty acids contained in nuts perform important functions that affect skin health. Palmitoleic acid helps moisturize the skin, and also helps the body in the healing process of wounds and supports the health of cell membranes. Applying peanut butter to the skin gives it a healthy glow. It is important to note that the skin itself contains a little palmitoleic acid, the amount of which decreases with age. Eating nuts replenishes this substance in the body. Palmitoleic acid also slows down the aging process of the skin. It prevents premature signs of aging: wrinkles and age spots.

Strengthens hair
Palmitoleic acid also supports healthy hair. Regular head massage using macadamia nut oil gives the hair shine, stimulates growth and restores their elasticity. Walnut oil also prevents brittle hair by penetrating the scalp and improving the strength of hair follicles.

Contributes to Better Vision
Macadamia nut contains vitamin B1 and essential fatty acids: omega-3 and omega-6, which are necessary to prevent the development of cataracts and maintain healthy eyes.

Prevents Atherosclerosis
A study by the American College of Nutrition found that eating 40–90 grams of macadamia nuts daily for 4 weeks could reduce the chance of atherosclerosis.

Prevents cancer
One of the most beneficial properties of a nut is its ability to prevent cancer. The antioxidants found in nuts protect the body from species such as cancer of the lungs, cervix, breast, prostate and stomach. Flavonoids contained in nuts protect body cells from free radicals, which also contribute to the development of cancer.

Prevents Celiac Disease
Macadamia nut is a fruit that does not contain gluten, so this type of nut is an ideal food for people suffering from celiac disease (allergy to gluten).

Strengthen nails
Macadamia nuts contain high levels of protein and antioxidants that help maintain healthy and strong nails.

For women

Eating macadamia nuts helps relieve headaches and migraines. Also, the fruits of this tree are very useful during the PMS period. Since women are more irritable at this time, it is recommended to add macadamia fruits to the diet. This will help to cope with an unstable emotional state.

For men

Macadamia nuts are also very beneficial for men. They saturate the body with minerals that help support the functioning of the genitourinary system, prevent inflammation of the prostate gland, and also increase potency.

During pregnancy

Macadamia nuts are rich in substances that can deal with headaches during pregnancy.With the regular use of this product, the likelihood of diseases associated with the cardiovascular system is reduced. In addition, nuts contain substances that have a beneficial effect on the nervous system. They help to eliminate irritability and fight mood swings, which quite often occur in women in position.

It is also worth noting that with the regular use of this product, the likelihood of varicose veins is reduced. Macadamia also helps to accelerate the body's regenerative processes.

If a woman has a tendency to allergic reactions, then the use of a nut must be abandoned.

When breastfeeding

Macadamia is a strong allergen, so it is not recommended to use this product when breastfeeding in the first 3-4 months of lactation. Later nuts can be eaten, but in small quantities. Pediatricians recommend excluding them from their diet for 6–7 months or until breastfeeding continues.

For kids

Macadamia is considered a very useful product for children. The nut is rich in calcium, which the child needs for the development and strengthening of bone tissue. It is recommended to add a small amount of nuts to the children's diet, as this will help to grow better and develop more actively. Like any other nuts, macadamia is allowed to be given to children from 3 years old.

Macadamia Nutrition Benefits

Despite the fact that macadamia nuts are quite high in calories, they contain a small amount of carbohydrates, so they can contribute to weight loss if you use this product in a small amount. Nuts are also a good source of fiber, which helps suppress appetite, and oleic acid helps burn fat. Macadamia nuts can help prevent abdominal obesity, which is one of the factors leading to metabolic syndrome.

Medicinal properties of macadamia nut

1. Keeps skin supple. The fatty acids in macadamia nuts play an important role in skin health. The use of peanut butter can compensate for the loss of valuable acids and prevent the early signs of aging.
2. Regulates blood glucose. Studies prove the effect of macadamia nuts on the glycemic index in patients with type 2 diabetes. This effect is due to the rich content of micro and macro elements.
3. Reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Macadamia nuts are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, which reduce the ability of platelets to stick together and form blood clots.
4. Useful nuts for sight. The antioxidant compounds found in macadamia oil are very beneficial for the eyes. They significantly reduce the risk of macular degeneration of the eye and cataracts.
5. Supports the health of the nervous system. An important component in macadamia is oleic acid. It helps maintain normal blood pressure and prevents stroke.
6. Anti-inflammatory effect. Consuming macadamia can help relieve inflammation. Nuts are a good source of alpha-linolenic acid, an anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acid that helps treat joint inflammation in arthritis.
7. Strengthens bones. Nuts are a good source of calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which help prevent bone demineralization.

Macadamia nut in cosmetology

In the field of cosmetology, macadamia nut oil is widely used. The oil is a light yellow liquid obtained by squeezing pressed nuts.This is a very healthy oil that is used for cooking, and is also used as a means to moisturize the skin and hair care.

Due to the large amount of vitamins, macadamia oil is very beneficial for the skin. Antioxidants help prevent the rapid aging of the epidermis. Therefore, in order to keep the skin young and healthy, it is recommended to use oil daily after a shower.

Macadamia nuts, like oil, contain a large amount of protein and antioxidants that help maintain healthy nails and hair. Applying macadamia oil on nails has a beneficial effect on the cuticles, and massage of the scalp using oil helps to improve the quality of the hair.

Macadamia oil: beneficial properties and application

Macadamia oil is able to lower triglycerides, increase energy levels, maintain a healthy heart and bones, improve digestion, prevent chronic diseases, stimulate blood circulation and strengthen the immune system.

Beneficial features:

1. It provides energy. Macadamia oil provides the body with plenty of energy. But it is worth noting that this product must be consumed in moderation, since non-compliance with the norm can lead to obesity.
2. Benefits for vision. The oil contains antioxidants that help improve eye health and prevent cataracts and macular degeneration.
3. Skin benefits. Antioxidants have a vital effect on skin health. Squalene contained in the oil prevents the occurrence of age spots and wrinkles.
4. Acts as a moisturizer. Macadamia oil is an ideal moisturizer for men after shaving. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the skin.
5. Hair health. Macadamia nut oil helps to shine and strengthen hair follicles, reducing hair loss.
6. Improves the health and appearance of the lips. It treats chapped lips and reduces inflammation of wounds and ulcers.

Application:

• as a skin lotion;
• as a hair mask;
• as a food product;
• means for massage;
• remedy for burns.

Before using macadamia oil, it is advisable to pass an allergy test. Apply a small amount of oil to the skin and let it soak completely. If redness or irritation occurs, it is better to refuse this product.

How to use macadamia shell

This product can be used in several areas:

1. Fertilizer. Processed nutshells can be used as fertilizer. It helps maintain moisture and limit weed growth. Quite often, shells are used as fertilizer in walnut orchards, because it contains the nutrients needed for young trees.
2. The manufacture of plastic. Macadamia nutshell can be used to produce environmentally friendly plastic. It is ground into a fine powder, then mixed with a polymer to create this material.
3. Fuel. The high oil content in macadamia nuts makes them burn for a long time, while generating a large amount of heat. This makes them a good source of fuel. The shell can be used instead of coal for grilling, because it burns for a long time and smoke does not leave an unpleasant taste on food.
4. Electricity. Companies in Australia, New Zealand, and Hawaii are currently experimenting with nutshells to generate cleaner electricity. The generated electricity is used to power macadamia nut factories.

Harm and contraindications

Macadamia nut is considered a harmless product, but people with individual intolerance or allergies need to exclude macadamia from their diet. Pregnant and lactating women are advised to limit the use of this product.

Excessive intake of nuts can cause some side effects. Here is some of them:

• Rash or cough.
• Change in blood pressure.
• Gastrointestinal problems.

Cooking Macadamia Walnut

Both nuts and macadamia oil can be used to prepare a wide variety of delicious dishes. Oil is perfect as a salad dressing, and it can also be used when frying and baking. Nuts can be used with morning oatmeal or add chopped fruits to the evening salad. Also, nuts can be used in the preparation of various sweets: sweets or biscuits.

Macadamia sweets
Ingredients:

• macadamia nuts - 150 g;
• coconut flakes - 3/4 cup;
• white chocolate - 600 g.

How to cook:

1. Put nuts on a dry frying pan and lightly fry them.
2. Melt the chocolate in a steam bath.
3. At the moment when the chocolate is completely melted, it is necessary to add nuts and stir well.
4. The baking sheet must be covered with parchment paper, pour the nut-chocolate mass on it and send it to the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
5. The resulting mass can be cut into pieces.

How to open macadamia nut

Very often, when buying nuts, a special key is attached to them. The key, as a rule, is iron, in the shape of the letter "T". In order to crack the shell, you need to insert the key in the center of the nut, in which the slot should initially be, and turn it clockwise.

If there is no key, then you can use a hammer and tongs with a clamp. To do this, clamp the nut in the tongs so that the seam is on top. Then, press the nut against a hard surface and hit the seam with a hammer.

Also, in order to split the shell, you can use a stone with a hole. Find a stone that has a small hole the size of a nut. Put a nut there and hit it with a hammer, stone or any other heavy object.

How to choose and store macadamia nuts

You should choose those nuts that do not contain additives, salt or sweeteners. Nuts must be smooth, uniform in size, free from smell and cracks.

Keep nuts in a cool and dry place. They can remain in the pantry for several months without being damaged. Peeled nuts must be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. Otherwise, they can deteriorate quite quickly.

Why macadamia nut is dangerous for dogs

Macadamia nut is dangerous for dogs. It is forbidden to give the animal both in kind and as part of other dishes. If the nut gets into the dog’s food, it can be fatal. To date, the reasons for the occurrence of such side effects have not been fully established.

As a rule, after eating macadamia nuts, animals experience weakness in their paws, and vomiting and diarrhea can begin. In most cases, these negative consequences can be mild, and therefore they can be eliminated at home under the guidance of a specialist. If the dog is severely unwell, a veterinarian should be contacted immediately. If the pet begins to have a fever, he has a high fever or the animal cannot stand on its paws - hospitalization is necessary.

Since macadamia nuts are very fatty foods, inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) can occur in dogs. If within three days after eating macadamia nuts the pet has vomited, there is no appetite or activity level is lower than usual, you should immediately contact your veterinarian.

Interesting Facts About Macadamia Nut

1. Macadamia is considered the strongest of nuts.
2. The United States is the largest consumer of macadamia nuts (51% of total consumption in the world), while Japan is in second place (15%).
3. September 4 is the national day of macadamia.
4. Although nuts grow on trees, they are usually not harvested directly from a tree. When the fruits ripen and are ready to eat, they fall to the ground.
5. Macadamia oil can be stored in the refrigerator for two years without deterioration.
6. Macadamia blooms in early spring. The flowers attract the bees responsible for pollination of this plant. Macadamia can be pollinated on its own.
7. The tree begins to bear fruit, usually 8-12 years after planting. Each plant is capable of producing from 15 to 30 kilograms of nuts per year.
8. Macadamia fruits are very oily. At 78% they are composed of oils (of which 60–80% are monounsaturated fats).

Macadamia nut photo