The Brazil nut is a South American tree in the family Lecythidaceae, and also the name of the tree's commercially harvested edible seeds. Brazil nuts are high in calories, contain good quantities of vitamins, anti-oxidants, and minerals. Its kernels, in fact, have been major energy sources of native Amazonians even today.100 g of brazil nuts provide about 656 calories. Their high caloric content chiefly comes from their fats. However, much of this fat content is monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) like palmitoleic acid and oleic acid that helps lower LDL or "bad cholesterol" and increase HDL or "good cholesterol" levels in the blood. Research studies suggest that Mediterranean diet that is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids offers protection from coronary artery disease and strokes by favoring healthy blood lipid profile.
Please note: that nuts pieces are mostly used as an ingredient for baking, shakes, porridge, smoothies or protein products and we do not recommend them to be used as a snack.