Nuts and Less Cholesterol

Nuts and dried fruits have a significant effect on blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It is known that pistachios reduce blood triglycerides in obese and diabetic people.

In a 12-week study in obese people, it was found that those who consumed pistachios had nearly 33% lower blood triglyceride levels than the control group.

The cholesterol-lowering power of dried fruits is due to monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Almonds and hazelnuts have been shown to increase good blood cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad blood cholesterol (LDL). Another study found that consuming one or more hazelnuts had a similar effect on cholesterol levels.

Another study on women with metabolic syndrome showed that daily consumption of one ounce (28 grams) of a mixture of walnuts, peanuts and pine nuts for six weeks significantly reduced all types of cholesterol (except HDL).

Other studies have shown that macadamia nuts, like hazelnuts and almonds, are very effective in reducing cholesterol levels. One experiment showed that a moderate diet including macadamia nuts can lower blood cholesterol levels as much as a low-fat diet.

Summary: Nuts and brains are very effective in reducing the level of bad cholesterol and blood triglycerides (LDL). At the same time, they increase the level of good cholesterol (HDL).