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History- The Brazil nut fruit is the product of a tree that grows in tropical areas such as the Amazon Rainforest. The tree can live for more than 500 years and may reach incredible heights of 45 meters or more. The trees only produce their fruits in forests where a particular type of orchid is allowed to flourish. This orchid attracts a specific variety of bee, one of the only insects whose anatomy allows them to be able to pollinate the complicated yellow coiled flower of the tree. Once it begins to grow, the fruit itself takes more than a year to mature, and consists of a large shell which looks very similar to a coconut, inside of which are packed up to 24 triangular-shaped seeds in a manner similar to orange segments. Once these seeds are hulled, what is revealed is the large, rich, buttery brazil nut.

Health Benefits- Brazil nuts are rich in selenium. Selenium not only acts as an antioxidant and helps prevent heart disease, but it also provides protection against cancer and heavy metal toxicity in the body. They are also a good source of protein, although they are high in calories and contain the highest levels of fat above any other nut. In fact, Brazil nut oil has been used as lubricant for clock parts, and in making artists’ oil-based paints. Brazil nuts are also a good source of magnesium which has been shown to help maintain relaxed, normal muscle function, keep blood vessels open, and stabilize blood sugar and blood pressure, suggesting it may be effective in managing cardiovascular disease and disorders involving airway constriction such as asthma, and hypertension. They also provide a source of fiber and the B1 vitamin, thiamine which aids digestion, helps strengthen nervous system and prevent stress.