Cashews are native to South America that is actually seeds despite popularly known as nuts. It is important to note that cashews contain 5 g of protein per ounce and considered as an ideal source of good fats, making them as a healthy snack option in moderation. On the other hand, cashews are also known to cause detrimental side effects among those who have allergic reactions or those who need to avoid foods that contain high levels of magnesium.
Cashew allergies
Cashew allergies are undeniably on the rise in the recent years. This is a growing concern since it affects young children who have never been exposed to cashew. A severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis which involves constriction of the airways is considered common in cashew allergies than peanut allergies.
Sodium content
Remember that too much of something good can be detrimental to the health. Unless the individual is diligent in looking for unsalted cashews, he/she might be adding large amounts of sodium to the diet when enjoying this salty treat.
Adults need 1,500 mg of sodium in a day while the tolerable limit is 2,300 mg. Take note that a single ounce of cashew contains 5 mg of sodium if they are unsalted. Nevertheless, the salted varieties can add up to 87 g of sodium for every ounce. The intake of high levels of sodium can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease as well as stroke and kidney disease.
Weight gain
Even with a small 1-oz portion of cashews that packs healthy unsaturated fats, the snack can easily tip the scale if the individual is not vigilant with the portion sizes. Remember that even the healthy fats should be consumed in moderation.
When excess weight occurs, an individual is at risk for diabetes, high cholesterol, cancer, metabolic syndrome, stroke, heart disease and other health conditions.
What are the possible drug interactions?
Cashews contain high magnesium content. In studies conducted, there are various drug interactions that occur with magnesium. The quinolone antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin and magnesium can bind together which prevents full absorption of the antibiotic.
Magnesium is also known to interact with blood pressure medications and calcium channel blockers, thus increasing the likelihood of adverse side effects from medications such as water retention and nausea.
The magnesium present in cashews can also interact with diabetes and thyroid medications and even diuretics. It is vital to pay close attention to the drug details and if certain medications used list magnesium as a concern.