What are macadamia nuts?
Macadamia nuts are the seeds of Macadamia integrifolia, a species belonging to the family Proteaceae. Native to the forests of the north-eastern coast of Australia, this species loves the mineral rich soils of tropical forests and subtropical areas and grows well not only in Australia but also in Hawaii, Central America, Brazil and in some regions of South Africa.
What are the nutritional properties of macadamia nuts?
100g Macadamia nuts provide about 700 calories broken down as follows:
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93% lipids
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4% protein
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3% carbohydrates
In particular, 100 g of macadamia nuts bring about:
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7,91 g of protein
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75.77 g of lipids (particularly monounsaturated fats, such as oleic acid and palmitoleic)
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13.82 g carbohydrates
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8.6 g of fibers
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2,473 mg of niacin
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1.2 mg of vitamin C
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1,195 mg of thiamine
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0.758 mg of pantothenic acid
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0.275 mg of pyridoxine
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0.24 mg of vitamin E
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0.162 mg of riboflavin
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11 micrograms of folate
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368 mg of potassium
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188 mg of phosphorus
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130 mg of magnesium
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85 mg of calcium
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5 mg of sodium
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4,131 mg of manganese
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3.69 mg of iron
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3.6 micrograms of selenium
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1.30 mg of zinc
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0.756 mg of copper
Macadamia nuts are sources of phytosterols (116 micrograms in 100 g), especially beta-sitosterol (108 micrograms in 100 g).
When should you NOT eat macadamia nuts?
No interactions of macadamia nuts with drugs or other substances has been found. If in doubt it is good to seek advice from your doctor.
Seasonality of macadamia nuts
Macadamia nuts are available on the market throughout the year.
Possible benefits and drawbacks of macadamia nuts
Macadamia nuts are good sources of fibers that protect the intestinal health. Phytosterols and selenium are molecules known for their cardiovascular benefits. Even their fats may help protect the heart and arteries, helping to reduce bad cholesterol and increase the good one. Selenium (as well as vitamin A and vitamin E) help boost antioxidant defenses, while the B vitamins promote the proper functioning of your metabolism.
Being gluten-free, macadamia nuts are ingredients suitable for gluten-free diets.
Allergy to macadamia nuts is rare, but it can not be excluded.
