By Chico Mies Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, has formally accepted an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), as confirmed by his media office on Wednesday, following consultations with family members, legal advisors, and political associates. According to a statement issued by Ohiare Michael, Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, the former governor's decision to appear before the anti-corruption agency underscores his commitment to transparency. Bello faces 19 charges related to money laundering amounting to N80.2 billion. Notably, he has sought to enforce his fundamental rights to ensure due process. The former governor has expressed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration and its anti-corruption initiatives. EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede had previously pledged to resign if Bello was not prosecuted, reaffirming the commission's commitment to pursuing the case to its logical conclusion.
Cashews are among the most popular and in-demand nuts worldwide. According to market research, the global cashew market was valued at over $8 billion in 2022 and is projected to exceed $11 billion by the end of the decade.
Known for their rich, buttery texture and sweet-savory taste, cashews are commonly enjoyed as a snack or as part of premium nut mixes. They are also widely used in various recipes, from salads and cashew curry to cashew-crusted fish, cashew butter, and desserts like caramel cashew cheesecake.
Additionally, cashews are often found in candies and chocolates, including cashew brittle and chocolate clusters. However, some individuals prefer to limit their intake to avoid overconsumption.
Cashews: what are they?
Cashews are a popular tree nut that originate from trees native to Brazil's tropical environment, while some claim they belong in the fruit category instead.The trees can grow to a height of 50 feet, but they won't bear fruit for at least three years, and it may take up to eight years for them to be suitable for commercial harvesting.
Although Brazil is the world's leading producer of cashews, more of the nut is produced annually in various nations outside of South America, including India, Vietnam, Nigeria, the Philippines, and the Côte d'Ivoire in West Africa. The nut is distinct because it emerges from the base of a cashew apple, a type of fruit, and is extracted from the fruit either when the apple falls from the tree or is harvested. After that, the nut is washed, dried, roasted, peeled, packed, and transported.
Are you healthy eating cashews?
Cashews are rich in essential nutrients and offer a plethora of health advantages. They have more than 4 grammes of dietary fibre and over 20 grammes of protein in only one cup. "When combined, these can help stabilise your blood sugar levels and help you feel fuller for longer," explains Kristen Smith, a registered dietitian and spokesman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the nut also includes calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, niacin, and folate. These nutrients can help lower inflammation and prevent blood clotting, as well as increase fertility, energy levels, and immune system function. "The monounsaturated fats found in cashews have the potential to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and enhance heart health," says Amy Goodson, a registered dietitian and nutritionist at The Sports Nutrition Playbook. She also highlights the nut's antioxidants and mineral richness for supporting the maintenance of strong bones and cells against oxidative stress and damage.
"Cashews also contain lutein, which contributes to eye and skin health," says Chicago-based registered dietitian and nutrition expert Christine Palumbo. "And cashews are a great substitute for many dairy-based sauces, making them popular in numerous vegan recipes," says Smith.
Can one eat cashews on a daily basis?
While cashews offer numerous health benefits, it is advisable to consume them in moderation due to their high caloric density. According to Palumbo, one ounce of cashews, which equates to approximately 16 to 18 whole nuts, contains around 157 calories. To put this into perspective, a single cup of whole and halved cashews can amount to nearly 800 calories. Therefore, Palumbo emphasizes the importance of portion control.
Goodson concurs and adds a note of caution, stating that, similar to other nuts, cashews may trigger allergic reactions in certain individuals. She also highlights that cashews possess a relatively high oxalate content, which could lead to kidney stone formation in those who are predisposed. However, for individuals without allergies or a history of kidney stones, Smith suggests that incorporating moderate quantities of cashews into one’s diet can be beneficial. He advises opting for raw cashews whenever possible, as roasted varieties often contain elevated levels of sodium or sugar.
By Chico Mies.
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