Baru (or Dipteryx alata) is a species of the Fabaceae legume family. The tree is referred to as the “Baruzeiro” (in Portuguese) and its produce “castanha de baru” (literally baru nut) or “amêndoa de baru” (baru almond). We find the Baru tree in the Cerrado savanna, an area in midwest Brazil (the most biodiverse savanna in the world) and in part of Eastern Bolivia. Their proper cultivation and harvesting will help provide a more sustainable source of revenue for communities and an alternative to deforestation. These seeds are becoming more and more popular as their potent benefits are revealed. Baru seeds are also called Baru nuts BUT behold, they’re actually nut-free! Curious? Read on for the Top 5 Health Benefits of Baru Seeds.
1. Helps raise HDL (good) cholesterol levels
Baru seeds, according to a study from Brazil, may help with HDL (good) cholesterol and decrease waist size in overweight women. The study showed that consuming 20g of these seeds as part of a normal daily diet produced the effect above.
2. High protein
Baru seeds are rich in protein with 100g containing 24g of protein. Baru seed oil contains a high proportion of unsaturated fatty acids, the two main oils being linoleic and oleic acid which make it lower in fat compared to other nuts.
3. Rich in antioxidants
These seeds are super rich in antioxidants (more than other nuts and blueberries). An interesting research study showed that consuming them seems to prevent, in rat tissues, iron-induced oxidative stress.
4. High fibre
They are packed with fibre that will help you to maintain healthy intestinal flora and promote cardiovascular health. You can eat the seeds with or without the skin but it is recommended to eat them with the skin since that is also rich in nutrients.
5. Vitamin & mineral rich
Baru seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals making them especially suitable for vegetarians and vegans who may be missing out on minerals such as iron, calcium and zinc. It also contains Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) a powerful antioxidant.
So, where can we find this wonderful seed? Whilst finding them in local stores might prove somewhat of a challenge right now, they are fortunately available in abundance via online stockists. They taste like peanuts, with tones of cashew, cocoa and a coffee aftertaste! Tried them already? What are your thoughts on this food which is fast-assuming ‘superfood’ status? Let us know in the comments below, join in the conversation on Facebook and follow us on Twitter & Instagram.
Are you a little nuts about seeds? Don’t worry, so are we! Find out more on some unique and powerful foods like coffee fruit extract, and these mushrooms that could dramatically enhance your life, give you a bigger spring in your step and make it even easier to Keep YOUR Fit ON!
