Protective Effect of the Castanha-de-cutia (Couepia edulis Prance) in Regards to Metabolic Illnesses and Its Socioeconomic Aspects: A Systematic Review

The biodiversity of the Amazon region includes many oleaginous fruits, among them the Castanha-de-cutia, whose great potential is its almonds, which have about 16.6% protein and 73% oil. What is also remarkable is the exceptional amount of bioactive compounds in their chemical composition. This bibliographic review has the objective of arousing interest in the consumption of the Castanha-de-cutia almonds in order to improve quality of life. A systematic search was carried out for studies published between 1947 and 2016 that examined the physical-chemical characteristics, nutritional composition, bioactive functions and industrial potential of the almond from the Castanha-de-cutia. These studies included the use of this Amazonian fruit in the diet of traditional populations in the Amazon region. The presence of essential fatty acids, tocopherols, carotenoids and phenolic compounds strengthens the endogenous system, reducing oxidative stress and the risk of pathologies. The high content of monounsaturated fatty acids was also verified. This demonstrated exceptional nutritional value for the Castanha-de-cutia oil of Amazonian origin. The identification of the bioactive compounds of the Castanha-de-cutia almond is of fundamental importance as an alternative source of such compounds, since these desirable characteristics can be used in the prevention and treatment of metabolic diseases, as well as having great socioeconomic potential in the paint, food and pharmaceutical industries.