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Calories In Cashews

Submitted by Nick on February 25, 2011

Nuts play a vital role in a dieter’s list of foods because they are packed with nutrients and minerals essential for the body. Cashew nuts, which are seeds of the cashew apple tree found in South America and in Asia, are sought after for their sweet flavor, rich taste, and wholesome health benefits. Cashew nuts nutrition labels reveal that though they have a relatively high fat content, they have no cholesterol. With an ideal ratio of saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, cashew nuts are considered most heart-friendly among all nuts. These benefits are, of course, available when the nuts are consumed in moderation with an eye on how many calories in cashews are consumed.

It is important to know how many calories in cashews come from their fat content. A one ounce serving of raw cashew nuts has more than 160 calories, with more than two-thirds of the cashews calories coming from the fat contained in the nuts.

The good news is that most of the fat is in MUFA or monounsaturated fat, which helps in lowering bad cholesterol and in increasing good cholesterol in the blood. However, it should be remembered that calories in cashew nuts shoot up when they are roasted in oil or butter. So for those who hope to shed kilos by cutting down on calories, cashew in the raw form is the best, in small servings.

A good source of vitamin B, vitamin K, potassium, iron, and dietary fiber, cashews also contain trace amounts of copper, magnesium, selenium, and phosphorus.

Though high in calories, cashews are extremely tasty with a nutty and smooth buttery flavor and texture. It is difficult to stop eating them once you start, until you remember how many calories in cashews you consume. Cashew chicken is a popular Chinese dish made with these nuts, stir fried.

Calories in cashew chicken can go up to 375 for a ten ounce serving. Chicken curries with cashews are a part of Indian and Thai cuisine too. Since cashews are a very popular snack in bars, the calories in a cup of cashews are often the culprit behind expanded waistlines.

Compared to deep fried pretzels or roasted peanuts, calories in raw cashew nuts are fewer. If one realizes how many calories in cashews go down with the drinks, one can exercise control over the portions. Cashews score over other snacks with their high nutritional content and are ideal for those with a cholesterol problem, provided they are eaten in small quantities.