Do Cashew Nuts Affect Hormones? Exploring the Impact on Your Body

November 11, 2025 •

4 min read

Recent studies suggest that certain dietary components, such as those found in cashew nuts, can play a supportive role in endocrine function. This leads many to question: do cashew nuts affect hormones, and if so, how can they contribute to better hormonal health and balance?

Quick Summary

This article details how cashew nuts can affect hormones by providing essential minerals like zinc, magnesium, and selenium. It covers their potential influence on testosterone, estrogen, thyroid function, and fertility through their rich nutritional profile.

Key Points

Zinc and Hormones: Cashews are a great source of zinc, which is vital for the production of testosterone and other reproductive hormones in both men and women.
Magnesium for Balance: The magnesium in cashews helps regulate stress hormones like cortisol and can alleviate hormonal fluctuation symptoms associated with PMS and menopause.
Estrogen Effects: Some compounds in cashews, such as anacardic acid, may have an anti-estrogen effect, which could benefit individuals with estrogen dominance.
Thyroid Support: Cashews contain selenium, a mineral critical for proper thyroid function and protecting the thyroid gland from oxidative stress.
Moderation is Key: Despite the benefits, cashews are calorie-dense. A balanced intake of a handful per day is recommended to support health without causing weight gain.
Fertility Boost: The zinc content in cashews is linked to improved male and female fertility by supporting hormone production and sperm health.
Whole Diet Context: Cashews should be part of a larger, varied diet, as they alone cannot fix hormonal imbalances but can provide key supportive nutrients.

How Cashew Nut Nutrients Support Hormonal Function

Cashew nuts are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a range of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that are crucial for various bodily functions, including hormonal regulation. While they do not contain hormones themselves, their high concentration of specific nutrients can act as cofactors and precursors in the body's natural hormone synthesis and metabolism processes.

The Role of Zinc in Hormonal Health

Zinc is a trace mineral found in abundance in cashew nuts and is a cornerstone of reproductive and endocrine health.

Testosterone Production: Research indicates that zinc deficiency can lead to lower testosterone levels in men. Including zinc-rich foods like cashews can help maintain healthy testosterone production, which is essential for libido, energy, and muscle growth.
Male Fertility: Zinc is critical for maintaining healthy sperm count and motility. Supplementing with zinc through diet can protect sperm from oxidative stress and support overall male reproductive health.
Female Fertility: Adequate zinc is also essential for women, contributing to hormone balance, ovulation, and egg quality.

Magnesium's Influence on Hormone Balance

Magnesium, another mineral plentiful in cashews, plays a multifaceted role in managing hormone levels and related symptoms.

Stress Hormones: Magnesium is often called the “relaxation mineral” due to its ability to help regulate the nervous system and manage stress. It plays a role in regulating cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone.
PMS and Menopause: For women, magnesium can help alleviate common symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause, including mood swings, irritability, and muscle cramps, by helping to balance hormone levels.
Insulin Resistance: Studies have shown that optimal magnesium levels can improve insulin resistance, a condition where cells don't respond effectively to insulin. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), where insulin resistance is a common underlying issue.

How Cashews May Affect Estrogen Levels

The interaction between cashews and estrogen is an area of particular interest. Some sources highlight the presence of anacardic acid in cashews, a compound that may have an anti-estrogen effect. This can be a positive effect for women with estrogen dominance, a condition where the body has an excess of estrogen relative to progesterone, leading to symptoms such as PMS, painful periods, and fibroids.

Potential Effects on Estrogen

Anacardic Acid: A handful of cashews contains a small amount of anacardic acid, which some nutritionists suggest can help balance estrogen levels.
Phytoestrogens: Other sources mention that cashews contain phytoestrogens, plant-based compounds that can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body, potentially helping to regulate hormonal balance during periods like menopause. The overall impact is complex and likely depends on the individual's specific hormonal profile. Women with hormone-sensitive conditions should consult a doctor.

The Link Between Cashews and Thyroid Function

Cashew nuts contain the mineral selenium, an essential component for proper thyroid function and the conversion of thyroid hormones into their active forms. The thyroid gland is crucial for regulating metabolism and energy levels, and selenium helps protect its tissues from oxidative stress. Incorporating cashews, along with other selenium-rich foods, can therefore support overall thyroid health.

Potential Risks and Considerations

While cashews offer notable benefits for hormonal health, they are not without potential downsides, particularly if consumed excessively or by those with certain sensitivities.

Allergies: Cashew allergies are a serious concern and can cause severe reactions, including anaphylaxis.
Calorie Density: Cashews are calorie-dense due to their high fat content. Overconsumption can lead to weight gain, which can negatively impact hormonal balance.
Digestive Issues: Excessive intake can cause bloating and constipation, especially for those with sensitive digestive systems, due to their fat and fiber content.
Raw Cashews: True raw cashews contain a toxic substance called urushiol. All commercially sold cashews are roasted or steamed to remove this toxin, but it is important to avoid unprocessed ones.

Cashew Hormonal Effects Comparison


Nutrient	Primary Hormonal Effect	Target Hormones	Considerations
Zinc	Supports synthesis and regulation	Testosterone, Estrogen, Progesterone	Crucial for fertility and reproductive health.
Magnesium	Aids regulation and relaxation	Cortisol, Reproductive Hormones	Helps with PMS and menopause symptoms, and reduces stress.
Selenium	Essential for thyroid function	Thyroid Hormones	Protects against oxidative stress and supports metabolism.
Healthy Fats	Supports hormone production	Various Steroid Hormones	Necessary for the building blocks of hormones.
Anacardic Acid	Potential anti-estrogen activity	Estrogen	May be beneficial for estrogen dominance, but warrants moderation.

A Balanced Approach to Integrating Cashews

The key to leveraging the hormonal benefits of cashews while mitigating risks lies in moderation and balance. Nutrition experts often recommend consuming a handful of cashews daily (around 5-10 nuts) as part of a varied diet. Combining cashews with other nutritious foods is the most effective approach for overall hormonal health, rather than relying solely on one food source.

Consider adding cashews to your diet through various methods, such as a crunchy salad topper, blended into smoothies, or as a base for creamy, dairy-free sauces. It is important to choose raw or dry-roasted varieties without excessive salt or sugar to maximize the health benefits and avoid unhealthy additives. Always listen to your body and consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have an existing health condition or are concerned about your hormonal balance.

Conclusion: Do Cashew Nuts Affect Hormones?

Yes, cashew nuts can affect hormones, but not directly like a supplement or medication. Their impact is supportive and indirect, derived from their rich content of minerals like zinc, magnesium, and selenium. These nutrients serve as vital cofactors that aid the body's natural processes of hormone synthesis, regulation, and metabolism. For example, zinc supports testosterone and fertility hormones, while magnesium helps regulate cortisol and eases symptoms related to female hormonal cycles. Cashews' unique compounds, like anacardic acid, may also offer specific benefits for estrogen balance. However, the effect is part of a larger nutritional picture, and moderation is essential due to their calorie density. For most individuals, including a sensible portion of cashews in a balanced diet can be a delicious and effective way to support overall hormonal health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cashews contain zinc and selenium, two minerals that play a crucial role in maintaining healthy testosterone levels, but they won't dramatically boost levels on their own. Eating them as part of a balanced, healthy diet is a supportive measure.

In moderation, negative hormonal effects are unlikely. However, overconsumption due to their high-calorie content can lead to weight gain, which can negatively impact hormonal balance. People with specific hormone-sensitive conditions should consult a doctor.

Yes, cashews can be beneficial for those with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Their high magnesium content can help improve insulin resistance, a common issue with PCOS, and provides a healthy, low-glycemic snack option.

Some research suggests that cashews contain plant-based compounds called phytoestrogens, which can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. However, their impact is mild and dependent on individual hormonal profiles.

Cashews are a source of selenium, a mineral that is vital for healthy thyroid function and the conversion of thyroid hormones into their active forms. A handful of cashews can support thyroid health.

Pregnant women can safely eat cashews in moderation. They provide essential nutrients like iron and healthy fats important for both the mother and baby. However, it is always recommended to consult a doctor.

For general hormonal support, eating a small handful of cashews, approximately 5 to 10 nuts, is often recommended as part of a healthy, balanced diet. The key is moderation to avoid excess calorie intake.