We’ve heard so much about avocados, spinach, chia seeds and quinoa recently that we’re starting to get slightly bored. There are so many more superfoods for us to celebrate, and yet we only seem to hear about the same ones time and time again!
One food that we really need to give more of our attention to is Macadamia nuts. With their subtle, buttery, almost creamy texture, macadamia nuts are native to Australia, but are now grown on trees all around the world. If you don’t know much about the nuts, keep reading to discover exactly why they’re the most underrated superfood of current time:
They have fascinating ties to Hawaii
As we mentioned above, macadamia nuts are grown all over the world, but they have particularly fascinating ties to Hawaii. Hawaii’s macadamia nuts are something else – they set a standard for macadamia nuts that’s impossible to beat anywhere else. Hawaiian macadamia nuts are grown year-round, and the first commercial macadamia nut farm was actually established in Hawaii. If you want to taste the very best macadamia nuts has to offer, you know where to go!
They’re high in heart healthy fats
Heart disease is one of America’s biggest killers, and when we’re presented with so many high sodium, unhealthily processed, fatty foods, it’s really no surprise. Switching up your unhealthier snacking options with macadamia nuts may be exactly what your heart needs to stay healthy, thanks to their high content of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Some studies have found that macadamia nuts can actually lower cholesterol and reduce risk factors for coronary heart disease if they’re eaten as part of your daily diet.
They’re one of the most sustainably farmed nuts
Obviously, the sustainability of farming varies depending on location and other factors, but looking at Hawaiian macadamia nuts in particular, you can guarantee sustainable farming and a low carbon footprint. Because of the fertile volcanic soil makeup in Hawaii, the nutrients from macadamia nuts are perfect for the environment, which helps to ensure a sustainable cycle of growth and regrowth.
They’re versatile
When we’re presented with a shelf-full of nuts, not many of us will reach for macadamia nuts first. That means that we often don’t know what to do with them aside from eat them on their own as a snack. As delicious as macadamia nuts are just as they are, there’s so much more you can do with them if you’re looking to get a bit more experimental. Try using them in granola, cheesecake or hummus recipes, or adding them to your breakfast muesli or porridge. You can also switch up your usual peanuts or cashew nuts in curry, stir fry and ramen dishes for something a little different.
They might prevent cancer
When it’s thought that one in two of us will be affected by cancer in our lifetime, knowing what foods to eat to stay cancer-free is essential. Macadamia nuts contain something called tocotrienols, a vitamin E compound that has been found in studies to have powerful anticancer properties. They also contain flavonoids, which fight against free radicals in the body. Free radicals can damage cells and lead to the formation of cancer tumours, so the more flavonoids we can take in through our diets, the better.
They can help you stay at your desired weight
While your weight loss goals should by no mean fully take over your life, staying at a healthy weight is important if you want to live the happiest, most fulfilling life for longest. Macadamia nuts contain a particularly monosaturated fat called omega-7, as well as something called palmitoleic, and it’s thought that they might be pretty helpful in preventing weight gain. Studies have found that both of these nutrients can prevent weight gain and decrease the size of fat cells in the body.
They’re delicious
Is there really any other reason to enjoy macadamia nuts? Not only are they incredibly good for you, but they’re also delicious. If you are looking to replace some of your unhealthier diet choices with macadamia nuts, it won’t even feel like a challenge, because their creamy, buttery taste will more than keep your sweet tooth satisfied. Macadamia nuts are hearty, too, and more filling than you’d imagine, so you don’t need a lot to keep you going. Because they’re so versatile, you can choose to enjoy them as a sweet or savoury addition to meals, so you can get multiple tasting experiences out of the same ingredient again and again.
Where To Buy Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts are widely available year-round, and you should be able to find them in the nut section of most stores and markets. You’ll find that the fresh nuts taste the best, so try to avoid pre-packaged if possible.
It’s definitely worth considering getting your hands on some Hawaiian macadamia nuts if possible! You won’t find anything better tasting, as Hawaiian macadamia nuts have their own distinct flavour that puts them apart from other nuts from around the world. You could purchase them online – or do yourself a favour and pay a visit to the beautiful vacation destination for some locally sourced goodness.