*Maya nuts are the seeds of a large tropical rainforest tree Brosimum alicastrum found in Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean.

*Maya nut is also called breadnut, ramon nut, etc.

*The fresh raw seeds or nuts can be cooked and eaten, which taste like mashed potatoes.

*The dried and roasted nuts can be ground into flour and used for making cakes, bread, biscuits and in a variety of other dishes.

*The dried nuts keep well for up to 5 years when stored in clean, dry, airtight containers in a cool and dry place.

*The flour made from the nuts can also be used to make hot and cold drinks like chocolate or coffee.

Are they raw?

Yes and No.
*Yes, if picked fresh or if it says raw or sundried on the package.
*No, because some of the maya nuts at the supermarkets are roasted. It is also available as powder. Make sure you read the label.

Health Benefits

1. Maya nuts have very low fats, and are naturally free of cholesterol and trans fats and so are good for the heart.

2. They have a very high content of carbohydrates, and so can be used as an alternative source of carbohydrates to other grains.

3. Extremely high in fiber, and so they provide roughage in the intestines, promotes satiety and relieves constipation.

4. They also lower the absorption of cholesterol and help maintain and stabilize glucose levels in the blood.

5. They are low in sodium and have good amounts of potassium, and so help to maintain blood pressure and reduce water retention.

6. Very good source of minerals like copper, and moderate source of iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, manganese and zinc, which are essential to maintain proper metabolism.

7. Rich source of vitamin C that helps to enhance immunity.

8. Good source of B group vitamins that are essential for enhancing the production of energy.