Cashews (Raw, Unsalted) Overview
Cashews are creamy nuts uniquely high in copper, magnesium, and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. They provide complete protein and minerals that support bone health, energy production, and immune function. Cashews are lower in fat than most nuts while offering exceptional nutritional density and versatility.
Why Cashews (Raw, Unsalted) Helps With Brain Health
Your brain consumes about 20% of your daily calories and requires specific nutrients for optimal function. The right foods can protect against cognitive decline, enhance memory, and improve focus and mental clarity.
Cashews (Raw, Unsalted) Nutrition Facts
Per 28g (1 oz (18 nuts))
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 157 | — |
| Protein | 5.2g | 10% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 8.6g | 3% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.9g | 3% |
| Sugar | g | — |
| Total Fat | 12.4g | 16% |
| iron | 1.9mg | % |
| magnesium | 83mg | % |
| zinc | 1.6mg | % |
| copper | 0.6mg | % |
| phosphorus | 168mg | % |
GI: 25 ()
Key Nutrients in Cashews (Raw, Unsalted) for Brain Health
Best Ways to Eat Cashews (Raw, Unsalted) for Brain Health
- Eat raw or dry-roasted as convenient snack
- Blend into cashew cream for dairy alternative
- Make cashew butter for spreading
- Add to stir-fries and Asian dishes
- Blend into smoothies for creaminess
- Use in vegan cheese recipes
Pro Tip:
The MIND diet specifically recommends leafy greens 6+ times/week, other vegetables once daily, berries twice/week, and fish once weekly for optimal cognitive protection.
Cashews (Raw, Unsalted) Health Benefits
- Exceptionally high in copper (67% DV) for iron metabolism
- Rich in magnesium (20% DV) for 300+ enzymatic reactions
- Good source of zinc (15% DV) for immunity
- Provides iron (11% DV) rare in plant foods
- Heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
- Quality plant protein (5g per ounce)
- Lower in fat than almonds or walnuts
- May reduce LDL cholesterol levels
Important Considerations
- Tree nut allergy common and potentially severe
- High in calories (157 per ounce) - watch portions
- May contain added salt - choose unsalted varieties
- Shell contains toxic oil - never eat unprocessed
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