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| - Last Updated on February 16, 2025 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that eating 3-5 cashews can treat migraines. After fact checking, we determined that this claim is false.
The Claim
As per an Instagram post, “eating 3 to 5 cashews daily treats migraines, improves eye vision, makes skin smooth and supple, and reduces weight by boosting metabolism.”
Fact Check
Can cashews treat migraines?
No, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that eating 3-5 cashews daily effectively treats migraines. Even though cashews contain magnesium, which some studies suggest may play a role in migraine prevention for some individuals, this is very different from treating an active migraine. Migraines are complex neurological events with various triggers, and their effective treatment often requires specific medications or therapies prescribed by a doctor. Relying solely on cashews for migraine treatment could be dangerous and delay proper medical care. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of migraines.
For expert guidance, we reached out to Dr Sreenivas Meenakshisundaram, Consultant Neurologist at MGM Healthcare, Chennai. He says, “There is no scientific evidence that eating cashews can treat migraines. While cashews contain magnesium and other nutrients that support overall brain health, they are not a cure for migraines. Migraine management requires a combination of lifestyle changes, diet, medication, and identifying triggers. Relying on cashews alone will not prevent or stop migraines.”
Do cashews improve eye vision?
Not directly. While cashews contain zinc, an essential mineral for eye health, eating a few cashews is unlikely to significantly improve vision. Zinc deficiency can indeed contribute to vision problems, but simply adding cashews to your diet won’t necessarily correct existing vision issues or prevent age-related decline. A balanced diet rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals, along with regular eye exams, is far more crucial for maintaining good vision. Conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration are complex and require professional medical care.
Do cashews make skin smooth and supple?
Maybe, but not magically. Cashews contain antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like zinc and vitamin E, which support overall skin health. These nutrients help protect against damage and keep the skin nourished. However, no scientific evidence proves that eating just a few cashews daily will noticeably improve skin smoothness or suppleness.
Skin health depends on multiple factors, including hydration, sun exposure, genetics, and overall diet. While cashews can be a nutritious addition to a skin-friendly diet, they are not a miracle fix for flawless skin.
We spoke with Dr Ekansh Shekhar, Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, Trichologist, and Aesthetic Medicine Consultant based in Lucknow, for his expert opinion on cashews for skin health. He states, “Cashews contain healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins that support skin health, but they won’t magically make your skin smooth and supple. Good skin comes from a mix of proper hydration, sun protection, a balanced diet, and skincare. While cashews can be a healthy addition, they are not a skincare solution on their own.”
Do cashews reduce weight by boosting metabolism?
Probably not in the way this post suggests. While cashews, like other nuts, contain protein and fibre that can help you feel full, the idea that they’ll magically “boost your metabolism” and melt away fat is misleading. Weight loss is much more complicated than that. It’s mainly about how many calories you eat versus how many you burn through activity (calorie deficit). Your genes also play a role. Even though cashews can be part of a healthy diet, they’re also high in calories. So, eating too many could actually make you gain weight. Portion control is key if you’re trying to manage your weight and enjoy cashews at the same time. They’re not a weight-loss miracle, but they won’t necessarily sabotage your efforts either, as long as you eat them in moderation.
Is it best to eat cashews before sunset?
No, this is not necessary. There is no scientific basis for this claim. The timing of cashew consumption does not affect their nutritional benefits or impact on health. Your body processes food based on its nutrients, not the time of day. Whether you eat cashews in the morning or at night, you’ll absorb the same vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. However, eating late—especially heavy or fatty foods—may cause discomfort or disrupt sleep, but it does not change nutrient absorption. That said, late-night snacking can be more problematic for people with diabetes, but cashews and other nuts are among the healthier choices if you need a small snack.
THIP Media Take
The claim that eating 3-5 cashews can treat migraines is false. While cashews support overall health, they do not cure migraines, improve vision, smooth skin, or cause weight loss. There is no strong scientific evidence for these claims. Cashews can be part of a healthy diet, but they are not a magic cure. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice.
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