Researchers from the Universidade Federal de Viçosa (UFV) in Brazil have discovered that daily consumption of Brazil nuts improves the protective function of the intestines and protects the organ from inflammation. The results of the respective research were published in the Journal of Nutrition.
A total of 46 overweight and obese women participated in the research. The volunteers were divided into two groups. Over the course of eight weeks, both groups tracked their calorie intake, but half of the participants supplemented their daily ration with two Brazil nuts, while the other group did not eat them at all.
At the end of the experiment, the researchers observed how the important biomarkers of intestinal health and the level of inflammation in the body of the participants had changed. It was found that the protective function of the intestines improved slightly in the group that used the aforesaid nuts.
The intestinal barrier is responsible for normal—selective—intestinal permeability; in particular, it prevents the penetration of toxins and microorganisms into the bloodstream.
Also, the researchers found that Brazil nuts lowered the inflammatory level in the body. They assumed that selenium in their composition has such a beneficial effect. This nutrient has antioxidant properties, protects cells from damage, and slows down the wear and tear of tissues.
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