Scientists from the Federal University of Viçosa (UFV) in Brazil found that daily consumption of Brazil nuts improves intestinal barrier function and protects the organ from inflammation. The study results were published in the Journal of Nutrition.
The study involved 46 overweight and obese women. The volunteers were divided into two groups. For eight weeks, both groups tracked their calorie intake, but half of the participants supplemented their daily diet with two Brazil nuts a day, and the other group did not eat them at all.
At the end of the experiment, the scientists tracked changes in key biomarkers of gut health and levels of inflammation in the participants' bodies. It turned out that intestinal barrier function slightly improved in the group that consumed nuts. The intestinal barrier is responsible for normal (selective) intestinal permeability, in particular preventing the entry of toxins, food antigens and microorganisms into the bloodstream.
Scientists also found that Brazil nuts reduced the level of inflammation in the body. Researchers have suggested that the element selenium in their composition has this beneficial effect. This nutrient has antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage and slow down tissue wear.
