Macadamia nuts, the fruit of the Macadamia tree ( Macadamia integrifolia ), are rich in minerals and vitamins. Useful for metabolism, they help fight free radicals . Let's find out better.

The main nutrients of Macadamia Nuts

Originating in Australia, Macadamia nuts are, among the oily seeds, those with the highest content of monounsaturated fatty acids (therefore precious for our well-being): as much as 70%.

It is a very nutritious fruit, rich in minerals (especially calcium and phosphorus) and vitamins A, B1 and B2 . They contain flavonoids (precious natural antioxidants) and high amounts of palmitoleic acid .

Properties and benefits

Macadamia nuts are the subject of scientific studies because they are considered a real elixir of long life .

The palmitoleic acid contained in these fruits seems to have very positive effects on the metabolism bringing to the organism well-being and longevity .

The high content of this acid is to be considered very valuable as it is a substance almost absent from the Mediterranean diet (it is contained in very small quantities in olive oil).

Macadamia nuts help fight free radicals, thus cellular aging, and "bad" cholesterol . They are allied to the health of the liver and muscles and thanks to the fiber content regulate intestinal activity .

You can take advantage of the benefits of fatty acids contained in oilseeds

Macadamia nuts in the kitchen

Macadamia nuts are usually bought already shelled because the shell is not easy to break.

Their flavor is sweet and delicate and they are used in the kitchen to accompany meat main courses or to prepare desserts, ice creams, cakes and nougats as Macadamia nuts go very well with honey and chocolate.

What we really need to know about the food use of these nuts is that they are toxic to cats and dogs, so if we have the habit of giving our animal friends taste of what we are eating we are very careful! However, the toxic effect disappears after about 48 hours.

By Stefania Puma