Do you avoid nuts due to their high calorie and fat content? You may want to reconsider adding them to your diet. A single ounce of raw cashews contains 155 calories BUT a diet rich in nuts may actually aid in weight control, explains the Linus Pauling Institute.
An article in LiveStrong.com states that "Dieters who ate at least two servings of nuts per week were less likely to gain weight than those who eat nuts less often, according to a review article published in Nutrients in July 2010. Another review article, published in The Journal of Nutrition in 2008, notes that nuts tend to increase satiety so you eat less food overall and that not all of the calories from nuts are absorbed, which may be the reason why nuts eaten in moderation don't tend to cause weight gain."
Raw cashews have a subtler flavor than their roasted counterparts, so they're great for adding creamy texture to your dishes without overpowering other flavors. Soak raw cashews in water overnight and then use them in pureed soups -- they work especially well in roasted cauliflower and onion soup, or a carrot orange and ginger soup. Alternatively, add soaked raw cashews to your smoothie to add creamy texture without having to use high-fat dairy, which contains saturated fat. And of course, you can also enjoy raw cashews as a snack on their own.
- Iron: Supports the immune system and hemoglobin production
- Copper:Helps body process iron, aids in the production of energy and strengthens blood vessels
- Zinc: Healthy cell growth and a robust immune system
- Manganese: Metabolism and helps make proteins needed for wound healing
February's Thrive Market Featured Offer! Receive a free full-sized bag of Thrive Market non-GMO Raw Cashews, plus a 30-day trial for only $1.95 shipping! If you are already and existing Thrive Market member you can receive a free bag of cashews with any purchase over $50.