Cashews are a popular snack food, but did you know that the fruit of the cashew tree, the cashew apple, is also incredibly nutritious and packed with anti-inflammatory properties? This tropical fruit is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can benefit your immune system, while also promoting bone health.
Nutritional Value of Cashew Apples
Cashew apples are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C. According to the US Nutritional Database, 100g of cashew apple contains only 33 calories and is packed with the following nutrients:
- Vitamin C – 7mg (9% of the daily value)
- Fiber – 1g
- Calcium – 3mg
- Iron – 0.2mg
- Magnesium – 11mg
- Potassium – 187mg (5% of the daily value)
Anti-Inflammatory Benefits of Cashew Apples
Chronic inflammation is a major contributor to a range of health issues, from cardiovascular disease to autoimmunity. Cashew apples contain compounds that can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, including catechins, which are powerful flavonoid antioxidants, and gallic acid, which has been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
Research has shown that cashew apples may help to reduce inflammation in the body. One study found that cashew apple extract was able to reduce inflammation in mice with paw edema, a condition characterized by swelling due to inflammation.
Cashew Apples and Bone Health
Cashew apples may also be beneficial for bone health. They are a rich source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body, and the bones and teeth store 99% of it.
Calcium needs to be consumed in combination with other nutrients like vitamin D and vitamin K to ensure its effectiveness. Luckily, cashew apples also contain vitamin K. Vitamin K plays a crucial role in bone metabolism by helping to transport calcium from the bloodstream and bind it to the bone.
Food Combining with Cashew Apples
Like most fruits, cashew apples can be enjoyed on their own or incorporated into a range of recipes. When it comes to food combining, cashew apples pair well with other anti-inflammatory foods, such as almonds, cinnamon, and ginger.
To make a quick and easy anti-inflammatory snack, slice up a cashew apple and enjoy it with a handful of almonds or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Anti-Inflammatory Cashew Apple Smoothie Recipe
Looking for a delicious way to get the benefits of cashew apples? Try out this simple and nutritious smoothie recipe.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup cashew apple flesh
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 slice fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth and creamy. Enjoy immediately!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the health benefits of cashew apples make them a valuable addition to any anti-inflammatory diet. Between their anti-inflammatory compounds and their bone-boosting nutrients, cashew apples offer a range of benefits for your overall health and wellbeing.
If you love anti-inflammatory fruits, you may want to check out the rest of our fruits section [here insert link], or head on over to our anti-inflammatory herbs section for more powerful ingredients to add to your smoothies.
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