Brazil nut

Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa) is a natural product recognized as the richest known food source of selenium. Its therapeutic effects are primarily attributed to its high selenium content, which plays a crucial role in antioxidant mechanisms and inflammation modulation. Supplementation with Brazil nut has been shown to reduce oxidative stress markers such as 8-isoprostane and 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine, and decrease inflammatory cytokines like tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). It also increases the activity of antioxidant enzymes like glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and influences the expression of selenoprotein P (SEPP). These actions contribute to its potential in managing conditions associated with oxidative stress and inflammation, such as chronic kidney disease and mild cognitive impairment.

Other names

Bertholletia excelsaBertholletia excelsa bonpl.Bertholletia nobilisCastanha do paraPara nut