Has anyone ever died from eating too many Brazil nuts?

Brazil nuts can kill you. Just one Brazil nut contains twice the recommended daily amount of selenium our body requires and a selenium overdose can have some very unpleasant side effects.

Why are Brazil nuts so radioactive?

As Dr. Yan explains, when there is naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) in soil where those roots gather nutrients, some of the material will end up in the nuts. The accumulation of the radium (and barium) is due to the very extensive root system of the tree.

Where does the name Brazil nut come from?

Brazil nuts come from the South American Bertholletia excelsa, or Brazil nut, tree. They are a good source of healthful fats, protein, fiber, and selenium. Despite its name, the Brazil nut is

Are there any health benefits to Brazil nuts?

Brazil nuts are still far from the most popular nut in the U.S., but they’re gaining traction, especially among those following keto and vegan diets. Not only that, but research is showing that they may provide significant health benefits. Brazil nuts are high in selenium, which is a trace mineral vital for proper body function.

When did people first start eating Brazil nuts?

The trees produce fairly large, hard-shelled fruits that resemble coconuts, which contain anywhere from 10 to 24 edible seeds. While humans have likely been eating Brazil nuts since the Paleolithic era, their first mention in Western sources wasn’t until the 1500s.

How are Brazil nuts grown in the wild?

The trees produce fruit only in undisturbed habitats and cannot be cultivated in pure stands. They require large native bees for the pollination of their semi-enclosed flowers and rely solely on agoutis (medium-sized rodents) for the dispersal of their seeds. Brazil nuts are primarily harvested in the wild by local people.