A giant tree, classified as "Bertholletia excels," that stands up to 200 feet tall grows Brazil nuts. The tree is classically found in the Amazon rain forest in Brazil, though it also grows in other parts of the world. It produces a seed capsule. Each seed capsule contains many nuts with a thick, woody seed coat protecting each edible endosperm. Brazil nuts offer a good source of several necessary nutrients.
Lipids
The oily endosperm, or nut, contains 70 percent lipid, or fatty acids, which allows it to burn like a candle. One cup of Brazil nuts, which contains approximately 32 nuts, provides about 872 calories with 740 of those calories attributed to fat. The lipid content breaks down into 34 grams of monounsaturated fats, 29 grams of polyunsaturated fats and 21 grams saturated fats but contains no trans fats, states the USDA National Nutrient Database.
Protein
Nuts, in general, provide an excellent source of protein, necessary for building up and maintaining healthy tissues, muscles and organs in the body. Every ounce of Brazil nuts contains four grams of protein. Information provided by the Harvard School of Public Health reveal eating nuts high in protein can help decrease the risk of heart disease. Because Brazil nuts are so high in fat, however, the nutritional advantages peak when the nuts replace a less healthy snack choice.
Selenium
Although essential to good health, the trace mineral selenium is required in only small amounts. Once ingested, selenium combines with proteins to produce selenoproteins which act as antioxidants, regulate thyroid function and boost the immune system. Because antioxidants help prevent damage to cells from free radicals, selenium can help protect against chronic diseases such as cancer. Brazil nuts offer a high content of selenium, with 1 oz., or six to eight nuts, providing 544 micrograms. Because the selenium content is so high, the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements suggest controlling the intake of Brazil nuts to prevent getting too much selenium.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus is the second most abundant nutrient in the body, next to calcium, with 85 percent of it found in the teeth and bones. The body needs phosphorus to build and maintain healthy, strong bones, filter out wastes in the kidneys and store energy. Protein-rich foods, such as nuts, provide a good source of phosphorus. Brazil nuts provide 206 milligrams of phosphorus per ounce.
Magnesium
Magnesium, the fourth most abundant mineral in the body, functions to help maintain muscle and nerve function, keep heart rhythm steady, support the immune system and keep bones strong. The USDA Natural Nutrient Database states that 1 oz. of Brazil nuts provides 107 milligrams of magnesium.
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