Macadamia nuts: uses and nutritional benefits

• Cardiovascular protector (oleic acid, fiber, vitamin B1, potassium): Macadamia nuts are rich in monounsaturated fatty acid (oleic acid). The latter protects the cardiovascular system. In addition, Macadamia nuts are rich in fiber, they therefore reduce cholesterol levels and protect against lipid disorders. Concerning the heart, these nuts are rich in vitamin B1, vitamin for cardiac function. Without forgetting blood pressure: a natural source of potassium and low in sodium, they contribute to the prevention of hypertension.

• Anti-oxidant (copper, manganese): numerous scientific studies demonstrate that the consumption of Macadamia nuts favorably modifies biomarkers of oxidative stress.

• Contributing to energy metabolism (lipid, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, vitamin B1, vitamin B6, vitamin B3): Macadamia nuts are the most energy-rich nuts. This is explained by their high lipid levels. Lipids provide the most calories per 1 g consumed: 9 kcal. In addition, there are micronutrients contributing to energy metabolism, such as: vitamin B6, vitamin B1, phosphorus, manganese, copper, iron, magnesium and vitamin B3.

• Laxative (fiber): the insoluble fibers of Macadamia nuts stimulate digestive transit. In contact with water, this type of fiber has the particularity of acting like sponges: they absorb water. This phenomenon, within the intestinal lumen, increases the mass of stools, which accelerates their evacuation.

• Blood sugar control (lipid, fiber, low in sugar): Macadamia nuts have a low glycemic index. This index comes from the high concentrations of lipids, fiber and a virtual absence of simple sugars. Thus, Macadamia nuts reduce the glycemic load of meals. This means that carbohydrates are absorbed more slowly, which helps the body control sugar intake.

• Appetite regulator (lipid, fiber, low in sugar): these nutrients give Macadamia nuts a low glycemic index. Therefore, they stimulate satiation. The low glycemic index harmonizes postprandial blood sugar levels. Stable blood sugar levels are a source of satiation.

• Skin protector (copper, vitamin B3): Macadamia nuts protect the skin thanks to two nutrients. First, copper stimulates melanin synthesis. Melanin protects the genetic apparatus of skin cells against the sun's rays. Then with vitamin B3 (niacinamide). The latter is often recommended in cases of dermatological disorders, because it maintains the hydration of the skin and mucous membranes.

• Hair tonic (copper): rich in copper, Macadamia nuts enhance hair color. Copper participates in the synthesis of melanin, a dark pigment responsible for hair color.

• Firming (copper, manganese): Macadamia nuts reduce the appearance of age marks on the skin. They contain copper and manganese which contribute to the normal formation of connective tissues. Connective tissue supports the skin, restoring proper volume and elasticity.

• Emotional balancing (magnesium, copper, vitamin B1, vitamin B6, vitamin B3): Macadamia nuts harmonize the synthesis of neurotransmitters. This property is conferred by certain available micronutrients: copper, magnesium, vitamins B1, B3 and B6. These contribute to the synthesis or metabolism of different neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are messengers of nerve conduction. Each neurotransmitter has its own “message” which modulates the excitation or inhibition of a neuron. All of this modulates emotions.

• Remineralizing (magnesium, phosphorus, manganese): Macadamia nuts offer an assortment of minerals, such as magnesium, phosphorus and manganese. All are stored in the skeleton, which contributes to its maintenance.

• Anti-anemic (iron, copper, vitamin B6): Macadamia nuts contribute to erythropoiesis. This mechanism results in the formation of red blood cells. It requires certain nutrients, like iron and vitamin B6. Through its contribution of copper, Macadamia nuts improve the bioavailability of iron.

• Immunomodulating (copper, iron, vitamin B6): Macadamia nuts participate in the synthesis of immune cells through the presence of copper and vitamin B6: immunomodulating nutrients. Also, they fight against iron deficiency. This deficiency reduces resistance to infections.

Macadamia is a large exotic tree belonging to the Proteaceae family. It is native to the tropical rainforests of eastern Australia, giving it its second name: Queensland walnut. It is a large fruit tree, reaching 15 meters in height. The leaves have a dark green color with an elongated shape. The Macadamia inflorescence forms a long cluster of around 200 whitish flowers. Macadamia fruits: Macadamia nuts are enclosed in a very solid and resistant shell. Macadamia grows slowly and does not tolerate cold. It is grown in Australia, Hawaii and California for its fruits, its wood and its decorative appearance.