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Cashew consumption reduces total and LDL cholesterol: A randomized, crossover, controlled-feeding trial
Abstract
Background: Cashews are the third most-consumed tree nut in the United States and are abundant with monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are associated with reduced cardiovascular disease risk. Although a qualified Food and Drug Administration health claim exists for nuts and heart health, cashews have been exempt from its use because cashews exceed the disqualifying amount of saturated fatty acids. Approximately one-third of the saturated fat in cashews is stearic acid, which is relatively neutral on blood lipids, thereby suggesting that cashews could have effects that are similar to those of other nuts. However, clinical data on cashews and blood lipids have been limited.
Objective: We investigated the effect of reasonable intakes of cashews on serum lipids in adults with or at risk of high LDL cholesterol.
Design: In a randomized, crossover, isocaloric, controlled-feeding study, 51 men and women (aged 21–73 y) with a median LDL-cholesterol concentration of 159 mg/dL (95% CI: 146, 165 mg/dL) at screening consumed typical American diets with cashews (28–64 g/d; 50% of kilocalories from carbohydrate, 18% of kilocalories from protein, and 32% of kilocalories from total fat) or potato chips (control; 54% of kilocalories from carbohydrate, 18% of kilocalories from protein, and 29% of kilocalories from total fat) for 28 d with a ≥2-wk washout period.
Results: Consumption of the cashew diet resulted in a significantly greater median change from baseline (compared with the control, all P < 0.05) in total cholesterol [−3.9% (95% CI: −9.3%, 1.7%) compared with 0.8% (95% CI: −1.5%, 4.5%), respectively], LDL cholesterol [−4.8% (95% CI: −12.6%, 3.1%) compared with 1.2% (95% CI: −2.3%, 7.8%), respectively], non-HDL cholesterol [−5.3% (95% CI: −8.6%, 2.1%) compared with 1.7% (95% CI: −0.9%, 5.6%), respectively], and the total-cholesterol:HDL-cholesterol ratio [−0.0% (95% CI: −4.3%, 4.8%) compared with 3.4% (95% CI: 0.6%, 5.2%), respectively]. There were no significant differences between diets for HDL cholesterol and triglyceride.
Conclusions: In comparison with a control diet, the incorporation of cashews into typical American diets decreases total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. Results from this study provide support that the daily consumption of cashews, when substituted for a high-carbohydrate snack, may be a simple dietary strategy to help manage total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. This study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02769741.
... It is believed that the nutrients contained in tree nuts are responsible for their potentially beneficial influence on human health. Numerous in vitro, in vivo, clinical, and epidemiologic studies have associated nut intake with a wide range of health benefits, including the modulation of glucose level [8][9][10][11][12] and serum lipids [13][14][15][16][17][18][19], positive influence on body weight [17,[20][21][22] as well as the intestinal microbiota [23][24][25][26][27][28], antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities [12,13,[29][30][31][32][33][34][35][36][37][38][39][40], and, consequently, protective effect against certain chronic conditions, such as diabetes [8], obesity [20,21], and cardiovascular diseases [19,41]. ...
... As reported, nuts, due to their dietary fiber content, magnesium, PUFA fats, vitamin E, folic acid, flavonoids, polyphenols, and L-arginine, may play an important role in reducing the cardiovascular risk through multiple mechanisms: by having a positive influence on the glucose [8][9][10][11][12] and/or lipid homeostasis [13][14][15][16][17][18][19], obesity [11,17,[20][21][22], hypercholesterolemia [14,19], MetS or T2DM [9][10][11]19,20,38], blood pressure [9,21,33], oxidation biomarkers and antioxidant defenses [8,9,18,29,37,38,40], flow-mediated dilatation [53,54], lipid [15,16,40], or DNA modification [34] and inflammatory status [30][31][32][33][34][35][36]39]. ...
... As reported, nuts, due to their dietary fiber content, magnesium, PUFA fats, vitamin E, folic acid, flavonoids, polyphenols, and L-arginine, may play an important role in reducing the cardiovascular risk through multiple mechanisms: by having a positive influence on the glucose [8][9][10][11][12] and/or lipid homeostasis [13][14][15][16][17][18][19], obesity [11,17,[20][21][22], hypercholesterolemia [14,19], MetS or T2DM [9][10][11]19,20,38], blood pressure [9,21,33], oxidation biomarkers and antioxidant defenses [8,9,18,29,37,38,40], flow-mediated dilatation [53,54], lipid [15,16,40], or DNA modification [34] and inflammatory status [30][31][32][33][34][35][36]39]. ...
Long-term studies with regular tree nut consumption have indicated positive outcomes for multiple health benefits. Here, we review the beneficial effects of tree nuts, highlighting the impact on glucose modulation, body weight management, cardiovascular risk, inflammation, oxidative stress, cognitive performance, and gut microbiota. Nuts are important sources of nutrients and phytochemicals, which, together with a healthy lipid profile, could help prevent certain chronic diseases, protect against oxidative stress and inflammation, and improve cognitive performance, thus reducing the impact of aging and neurodegeneration.
... Clinical trials and observational studies have also demonstrated that nuts, such as pistachio, hazelnut, macadamia, almond, and walnut, have beneficial effects on dif-ferent mediators of inflammation, lipid concentration, insulin resistance, and blood pressure [15][16][17]. However, studies on cashews have demonstrated inconclusive results [18,19]. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has long supported claims for nuts contributing to a balanced healthy diet [20]. ...
... The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has long supported claims for nuts contributing to a balanced healthy diet [20]. However, the FDA has excluded cashews from the claim due to (1) the lack of specific research data regarding the lipid-lowering effects of cashews and (2) the fact that cashew nuts possess a considerable short-chain fatty acid (SFA) content which exceeds the standard recommended amount (4 g/50 g serving of nuts) [18]. The fat content of cashews (almost 73% of total kilocalories) consists of 60% MUFAs and about 18-20% PUFAs [21], and they contain more than 30% stearic acid (18: 0) [22]. ...
... Their results are shown in Table 1 (Fig. 1). Table 1 demonstrates the characteristics and main outcomes of the 6 included studies [18,19,[27][28][29][30]. This systematic review of cashew nut intake included 91 healthy cases, 312 type 2 diabetes cases, and 128 metabolic syndrome cases among 531 participants (sample size indicates the number of subjects who completed the studies). ...
Introduction:
Nuts are one of the dietary components which appear to have beneficial effects on cardiovascular disease biomarkers. Studies demonstrate beneficial effects of cash-ews on serum lipids concentration, but results in the literature remain inconclusive. We conducted a review to examine the effects of cashew nut supplementation on serum lipid profile.
Methods:
Two reviewers independently searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and EMBASE electronic databases from inception until June 2019 without language limitation. Random- and fixed-effects models were used to calculate 95% confidence intervals (CI) for studies.
Results:
Six randomized clinical trials comprising 531 participants were included in this systematic review. Three studies were included in the meta-analysis model. There were no significant changes for total cholesterol (TC) (standardized mean difference [SMD]: -0.02, 95% CI: -0.32, 0.28), triglycerides (TG) (SMD: -0.01, 95% CI: -0.22, 0.20), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (SMD: 0.09, 95% CI: -0.16, 0.34), or low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (SMD: -0.18, 95% CI: -0.75, 0.39).
Conclusion:
The results of this analysis demonstrate that treatment with cashew nut supplementation alone did not significantly change serum levels of LDL, HDL, TC, or TG.
... In one study, 8 wk of daily cashew consumption, with intakes ranging from 63 to 108 g/d, had no effect on blood lipids of adults with metabolic syndrome (11). In the second study, 4 wk of daily cashew intake at amounts from 28 to 64 g/d lowered LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol but had no effect on HDL cholesterol in healthy men and women, compared with baked potato chips (12). In the third study, Asian-Indian adults with type 2 diabetes consumed a free-living diet with 30 g cashew nuts/d for 12 wk, resulting in improved HDL-cholesterol concentrations but no change in LDL cholesterol or other blood lipids (13). ...
... In one of these studies, 8 wk of daily cashew consumption had no effect on blood lipids of adults with metabolic syndrome (11). In the second study, 4 wk of daily cashew intake was reported to lower total and LDL cholesterol, but did not affect HDL cholesterol, in healthy men and women compared with potato chips (12). In the third study, 30 g cashews/d for 12 wk increased HDL cholesterol in adults but did not affect total or LDL cholesterol (13). ...
... The second study (12) reported a change in blood lipids after replacing calories from baked potato chips with cashews. Volunteers were fed cashews at ∼11% of their energy intake, corresponding to between 28 and 64 g/d. ...
Background:
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a qualified health claim for tree nuts and reduction of cardiovascular disease. However, cashews are excluded from that claim due to their content of saturated fats, which is predominantly stearic acid. Because stearic acid is neutral with respect to blood lipids, several studies have been conducted to test the effect of cashew nuts on blood lipids, and these studies have produced conflicting results.
Objectives:
The aim of this study was to conduct a highly controlled intervention to determine the effect of cashews fed at the amount specified in the health claim on risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Methods:
A total of 42 adults participated in a controlled-feeding study conducted as a randomized crossover trial with 2 treatment phases. The volunteers were provided the same base diet in both treatment phases, with no additions during the control phase and with the addition of 1.5 servings (42 g) of cashews/d for the cashew nut phase. During the cashew nut phase, the amount of all foods was decreased proportionally to achieve isocaloric overall diets in the 2 phases. After 4 wk of intervention, assessments included blood lipids, blood pressure, central (aortic) pressure, augmentation index, blood glucose, endothelin, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), adhesion molecules, and clotting and inflammatory factors.
Results:
There were no significant differences in blood lipids, blood pressure, augmentation index, blood glucose, endothelin, adhesion molecules, or clotting factors in this weight-stable cohort. PCSK9 was significantly decreased after cashew consumption, although there was no change in LDL cholesterol.
Conclusions:
Consumption of 1.5 servings of cashew nuts/d, the amount associated with the FDA qualified health claim for tree nuts and cardiovascular disease, did not positively or adversely affect any of the primary risk factors for cardiovascular disease. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02628171.
... In almost sixteenth century, cashew nuts are dig in Portugal in northeastern part and in count, the cashew nut trees are also circulated in other region of the world (Ologunde, Omosebi, Ariyo, Olunlade, & Abolaji, 2011). Cashews are the third most consumed tree nut in the United States (Mah et al., 2017). Among tree nuts, cashew nuts rank third in worldwide production (kernel basis), with a world average production of 547,371 metric tons (kernel basis) in the last 10 years with a continuous raising trend. ...
... Their injection are important and prove to be beneficial in reference to health (Rico, Bullo, & Salvado, 2016). Cashews are associated with reduced cardiovascular disease risk because these are abundant with monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids (Mah et al., 2017). The cashew fruit possesses maximum nutrient value, nourishing fats and also substantial quantity of vitamins, amino acids, sterols and minerals that exhibits healthy and advantageous consequences on physical condition (Blais et al., 2015;Gupta & Prakash, 2014;Ras, Geleijnse, & Trautwein, 2014). ...
... Approximately one-third of the saturated fat in cashews is stearic acid, which is relatively neutral on blood lipids, thereby suggesting that cashews could have effects that are similar to those of other nuts. However, clinical data on cashews and blood lipids have been limited (Mah et al., 2017). In a study, Mohan et al. (2018) reported that besides negative effects, cashew nut consumption is associated with increasing the levels of high density lipoprotein in serum and decreasing the levels of low density lipoprotein, cholesterol and triglyceride in blood. ...
... These results are similar to those obtained by Rico et al. (48:3 ± 1:6 g/ 100 gDW), in a previous study on cashew kernels conducted in India [33]. The slight difference observed may be related not only to the influence of edaphic and environmental factors but also to the nature of used fertilizers [34]. Previous study reported similar fat contents of 13.8 g for 28 cashew kernels or 49.28 g/100 g [34]. ...
... The slight difference observed may be related not only to the influence of edaphic and environmental factors but also to the nature of used fertilizers [34]. Previous study reported similar fat contents of 13.8 g for 28 cashew kernels or 49.28 g/100 g [34]. This level of fat in cashew kernels confers potential uses in the process of butter, cheese, peanut, etc. ...
The cashew plant is an allogamous plant that produces two types of fruits: the nut and the cashew apple. The present study was conducted to perform a comparison of proximate and phytonutrient compositions of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) nuts and apples from different geographical areas of Burkina Faso. For this purpose, 60 samples of apples and kernels were collected from the three main cashew cultivation areas. The nutritional potential of cashew nuts and apples produced was evaluated to enhance their food processing. Protein, carbohydrates, lipids, dietary fibers, ascorbic acid, tannins, anthocyanins, chlorophyll, lycopene, and β-carotene contents were assessed. The results revealed high contents of lipids (50.42±2.3 g/100 gDW), proteins (22.32+−1.8 g/100 gDW), and starch (12.05±1.27 g/100 g DW) in almonds. Apples, on the other hand, are rich in lipids, ascorbic acid (387.45±17.4 mg/100 g), soluble sugars (387.45±17.4 mg/100 g,), and pigments (lycopene, anthocyanin, β-carotene, and chlorophyll). In summary, almonds may be suitable as a source of lipids and related products. Apples can be used as natural antioxidants and produce juices. All of these data are important clues for cashew by-product processing. These results obtained provide a scientific basis for their food and economical valorization of cashew fruits.
... Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) belongs to the Anacardiaceae family, native to Brazil and spread spontaneously in South American countries [115]; it is currently the third most consumed dried fruit in the United States [116]. This is a very nutritious food due to its content in fats, vitamins, fibers, amino acids, sterols, and minerals [117]. ...
... A detailed scheme of the nutritional components of cashew is reported in Figure 4. The consumption of cashews was related to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease due to the content of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids [116]. Not surprisingly, cashews have a long history of application in traditional medicine for the treatment as asthma, diabetes, skin infections and inflammation [121]. ...
Consumption of tree nuts and peanuts has considerably increased over the last decades due to their nutritional composition and the content of beneficial compounds. On the other hand, such widespread consumption worldwide has also generated a growing incidence of allergy in the sensitive population. Allergy to nuts and peanuts represents a global relevant problem, especially due to the risk of the ingestion of hidden allergens as a result of cross-contamination between production lines at industrial level occurring during food manufacturing. The present review provides insights on peanuts, almonds, and four nut allergens—namely hazelnuts, walnuts, cashew, and pistachios—that are likely to cross-contaminate different food commodities. The paper aims at covering both the biochemical aspect linked to the identified allergenic proteins for each allergen category and the different methodological approaches developed for allergens detection and identification. Attention has been also paid to mass spectrometry methods and to current efforts of the scientific community to identify a harmonized approach for allergens quantification through the detection of allergen markers.
... In China, nuts are mainly consumed as snacks by children. Nuts contain monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), which were documented to lower BP (12). A study on US adulthood, using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005-2010 database (n = 14,386) based on 24 h dietary recalls, found that tree nut consumption was linked to lower systolic blood pressure (SBP) (13). ...
... For Chinese children, the types of their nut diet include peanuts, melon seeds, walnuts, almonds, and so on. The different types of nuts may have different effects on BP levels (12,(28)(29)(30). Regardless of daily nut type, a mixture effect on the BP has been reported (28). ...
Objective
Increased blood pressure (BP) is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in adults. Regular consumption of nuts may improve some BP in adults whereas evidence in children is relatively lacking. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of nuts intake on BP in children.
Methods
Stratified cluster sampling was performed to include a total of 15,268 primary school children aged 6–12 years in urban and rural areas in Southwest China. The daily nuts intake dosage was collected by questionnaires, and generalized linear model (GLM) and logistic regression were used to analyze the relationship between nuts intake and BP.
Results
For the total subjects, 11,130 (72.9%) participants consumed <35 g/day of nuts, 1,145 (7.5%) participants consumed 35 g/day ≤ nut <50 g/day of nuts, 2,053 (13.4%) participants consumed 50~100 g/day of nuts, and 940 (6.2%) participants consumed over 100 g/day of nut. For sex subgroup, 1,074 (13.53%) boys and 979 (13.35%) girls consumed 50~100 g/day of nuts. Compared with the 50~100 g/day of nuts intake group, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were significantly different in <35 g/day, 35g/day ≤ nut <50 g/day, and >100 g/day nuts intake groups (all p < 0.001). The logistic regression showed that compared with the 50~100 g/day group, the other three groups are more likely associated with childhood hypertension (all p < 0.001). Therefore, a U-shaped relationship between nuts intake and BP level was identified.
Conclusions
The finding suggests that intake of 50~100 g/day nuts is the recommended dose of nuts intake to control childhood hypertension, as well as for cardioprotection purposes.
... La nuez de marañón, una nuez de árbol, es la tercera nuez de árbol más consumida en los Estados Unidos (Mah et al. 2017). La leche de nuez de marañón se elabora principalmente a partir de una mezcla de nuez de marañón y agua. ...
... El ácido graso más abundante en la nuez de marañón es el ácido oleico (Soares et al. 2013). Se ha demostrado que las dietas ricas en ácido oleico, como la dieta mediterránea, reduce el riesgo de enfermedad cardiovascular (Mah et al. 2017). Sin embargo, la cantidad de nueces de marañón en una porción de leche de nuez de marañón comercial es muy pequeña: alrededor de 3 nueces por porción. ...
La disponibilidad y el consumo de alternativas de leche a base de plantas, también conocidas como no lácteas, han ido en aumento. Las ventas de alternativas a la leche no láctea se han más que duplicado, mientras que el consumo de leche de vaca tradicional ha disminuido. Este aumento puede deberse a que las leches de origen vegetal se perciben como "naturales", así como a un aumento del veganismo y la búsqueda de evitar la lactosa. Las principales alternativas de leche de origen vegetal son la almendra, la soja, el coco, la nuez de marañón (anacardo) y el arroz. Esta publicación analiza el contenido nutricional, los posibles beneficios para la salud y los posibles riesgos de la leche de nuez de marañón.This new 4-page article is the Spanish translation of FSHN20-51/FS413, Plant-Based Milks: Cashew, written by Jamie Zeldman, Daniela Rivero-Mendoza, and Wendy J. Dahl, translated by Daniela Rivero-Mendoza, and published by the UF/IFAS Food Science and Human Nutrition Department.https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fs418
... Cashew, a tree nut, is the third most consumed tree nut in the United States (Mah et al. 2017). Cashew milk is made primarily from a blend of cashews and water. ...
... The most abundant fatty acid in cashews is oleic acid (Soares et al. 2013). Diets high in oleic acid, such as the Mediterranean diet, have been shown to reduce cardiovascular disease risk (Mah et al. 2017). However, the amount of cashews in a serving of commercial cashew milk is very small-about 3 cashews per serving for the example cashew milk given in Table 1. ...
The availability and consumption of plant-based milk alternatives have been on the rise. Sales of nondairy milk alternatives have more than doubled, whereas consumption of traditional cow's milk has dropped. This increase may be due to plant-based milks being perceived as "natural," as well as a rise in veganism and avoidance of lactose. The primary plant-based dairy alternatives are almond, soy, coconut, cashew and rice. This new 4-page publication of the UF/IFAS Food Science and Human Nutrition Department discusses the nutritional content, potential health benefits, and potential risks of cashew milk. Written by Jamie Zeldman, Daniela Rivero-Medoza, and Wendy J. Dahl.https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fs413
... Despite the lack of clinical outcomes related to lipid-lowering abilities of cashews, macadamias, peanuts, and pecans among individuals with increased levels of any of the following blood lipids (TG, TC, and LDL), a limited number of studies have been found confirmed that the mentioned nuts exert a favorable impact on blood lipid concentrations. In a recent study, Mah et al 29 have performed a randomized controlled trial to see whether cashews can improve lipid profile among individuals having elevations in LDL-c concentrations. They have found that the substitution of carbohydrate-rich snack (eg, potato) with a cashew-rich diet can be an effective dietary strategy to assist in the management of LDL and TC. 29 In a former research, Griel et al 27 noticed a positive alteration in lipid concentrations in patients with hypercholesterolemia, after the daily consumption of macadamia (42.5 g). ...
... They have found that the substitution of carbohydrate-rich snack (eg, potato) with a cashew-rich diet can be an effective dietary strategy to assist in the management of LDL and TC. 29 In a former research, Griel et al 27 noticed a positive alteration in lipid concentrations in patients with hypercholesterolemia, after the daily consumption of macadamia (42.5 g). A single trial was found regarding the influence of peanuts on lipid parameters in hypercholesterolemic subjects. ...
Many epidemiological studies have regularly connected nuts intake with decreased risk for coronary heart disease. The primary mechanism by which nuts protect against cardiovascular disease is through the improvement of lipid and apolipoprotein profile. Therefore, numerous dietary intervention studies investigated the impact of nut consumption on blood lipid levels. Many studies have shown that nut intake can enhance the lipid profile in a dose-response way among individuals with increased serum lipids. This systematic review examines the effectiveness of nuts on the lipid profile among patients with dyslipidemia from different age groups. A total of 29 interventional studies from 5 databases met the inclusion criteria. In all, 20 studies were randomized controlled clinical trials, whereas 9 were crossover-controlled clinical trials. Participants included in the studies were different in terms of age, sex and, serum lipid profile. The studies were inconsistent in the type of tree nuts, duration, dose, and the nut forms. All studies indicated changes in the lipid profile after the intervention particularly on the total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein. Interventional periods ranged from 3 weeks up to 12 months with doses ranged from 15 to 126 gm. In conclusion, this review provides an evidence of favorable effect of nuts consumption of serum lipid profile.
... The effects of tree nut and peanut consumption on lipid profiles from intervention studies published in the last ten years [31][32][33][34][35][36][37][38][39][40][41][42][43] are summarized in Table 2. The results of these clinical trials in a middle-aged population indicate a causal association between higher nut intake and lower levels of total cholesterol (T-C), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), non-high density lipoproteincholesterol (non-HDL-C), triglycerides (TG), and apolipoprotein B (apoB), all markers of CV morbidity and mortality. ...
... In a group of hypertensive and dyslipidemic subjects, the intake of partially defatted Brazil nuts significantly increased plasma selenium and the antioxidant activity of the glutathione peroxidase enzyme, and reduced oxidation in LDL-C compared to the baseline [37]. Mah et al. [39] demonstrated that adding cashews into the diet of a population with high LDL-C risk could lower the T-C, LDL-C, and LDL-C/HDL-C ratio. In agreement with these results, a very recent trial showed a significant decrease for the LDL-C/HDL-C ratio in a cashew diet group compared with a no-cashew control group [46]. ...
Aging is considered the major risk factor for most chronic disorders. Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are two major contributors for cellular senescence, downregulation of stress response pathways with a decrease of protective cellular activity and accumulation of cellular damage, leading in time to age-related diseases. This review investigated the most recent clinical trials and cohort studies published in the last ten years, which presented the influence of tree nut and peanut antioxidant diets in preventing or delaying age-related diseases in middle-aged and elderly subjects (≥55 years old). Tree nut and peanut ingestion has the possibility to influence blood lipid count, biochemical and anthropometric parameters, endothelial function and inflammatory biomarkers, thereby positively affecting cardiometabolic morbidity and mortality, cancers, and cognitive disorders, mainly through the nuts’ healthy lipid profile and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of actions. Clinical evidence and scientific findings demonstrate the importance of diets characterized by a high intake of nuts and emphasize their potential in preventing age-related diseases, validating the addition of tree nuts and peanuts in the diet of older adults. Therefore, increased consumption of bioactive antioxidant compounds from nuts clearly impacts many risk factors related to aging and can extend health span and lifespan.
... Most of the selected studies were focused on walnuts [12,, followed by Brazil nuts [52][53][54][55][56][57][58][59][60][61][62][63][64], while a lower number of studies were found for almonds [65][66][67][68][69][70][71][72], hazelnuts [73][74][75], pistachios [76][77][78], and mixed nuts [79][80][81][82][83]. The initial search also retrieved studies on pecan nuts [84,85], macadamia nuts [86][87][88], cashews [89,90], and peanuts [91][92][93][94], but none of them included any potentially relevant BFIs (see Additional file 1: Table S1 for the corresponding reasons). Therefore, they were not included in Table 1. ...
... Oleic acid (C18:1) is the major MUFA present in most types of nuts (walnuts, almonds, peanuts, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, and pecan nuts [5,6]). As a consequence, higher amounts of this fatty acid have been observed in blood and urine after the intake of walnuts [28], almonds [113], hazelnuts [74,114], pecan nuts [85], macadamia nuts [88], cashews [89,90], and mixed nuts [98,115]. This common presence in many types of nuts excludes oleic acid as a direct link to specific nut intake. ...
Nuts and vegetable oils are important sources of fat and of a wide variety of micronutrients and phytochemicals. Following their intake, several of their constituents, as well as their derived metabolites, are found in blood circulation and in urine. As a consequence, these could be used to assess the compliance to a dietary intervention or to determine habitual intake of nuts and vegetable oils. However, before these metabolites can be widely used as biomarkers of food intake (BFIs), several characteristics have to be considered, including specificity, dose response, time response, stability, and analytical performance. We have, therefore, conducted an extensive literature search to evaluate current knowledge about potential BFIs of nuts and vegetable oils. Once identified, the strengths and weaknesses of the most promising candidate BFIs have been summarized. Results from selected studies have provided a variety of compounds mainly derived from the fatty fraction of these foods, but also other components and derived metabolites related to their nutritional composition. In particular, α-linolenic acid, urolithins, and 5-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid seem to be the most plausible candidate BFIs for walnuts, whereas for almonds they could be α-tocopherol and some catechin-derived metabolites. Similarly, several studies have reported a strong association between selenium levels and consumption of Brazil nuts. Intake of vegetable oils has been mainly assessed through the measurement of specific fatty acids in different blood fractions, such as oleic acid for olive oil, α-linolenic acid for flaxseed (linseed) and rapeseed (canola) oils, and linoleic acid for sunflower oil. Additionally, hydroxytyrosol and its metabolites were the most promising distinctive BFIs for (extra) virgin olive oil. However, most of these components lack sufficient specificity to serve as BFIs. Therefore, additional studies are necessary to discover new candidate BFIs, as well as to further evaluate the specificity, sensitivity, dose-response relationships, and reproducibility of these candidate biomarkers and to eventually validate them in other populations. For the discovery of new candidate BFIs, an untargeted metabolomics approach may be the most effective strategy, whereas for increasing the specificity of the evaluation of food consumption, this could be a combination of different metabolites.
Electronic supplementary material
The online version of this article (10.1186/s12263-019-0628-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
... Previous clinical trials and epidemiologic studies show that nuts such as pistachio, hazelnut, almond, macadamia, and especially walnut have beneficial effects on various mediators of chronic diseases including lipid concentration, in-flammation, insulin resistance, and blood pressure (BP) (3)(4)(5). Studies on cashews are scarce and have inconclusive results (6,7). There is an inverse association between nut consumption and diabetes, as well as CVD. ...
... The current study found that cashews could improve LDL-C/HDL-C ratio in patients with T2DM. The current study results were in agreement with those of a randomized, crossover, isocaloric, controlled-feeding study, in which consumption of cashew nuts reduced TC, LDL-C, and non-HDL-C serum levels as well as TC/HDL-C ratio (7). Nuts, including cashews have unique nutrient contents, which can favorably affect lipid profile (3,20,21) in patients with T2DM (15). ...
Background:
Cashews, as the main source of monounsaturated (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated (PUFAs) fatty acids, are associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases. Despite evidence for beneficial effects of nuts on lipid profile and glycemic control, to the authors' best knowledge, little is known about cashews.
Methods:
An eight-week, randomized, isocaloric, controlled-feeding study was conducted on 50 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) randomly assigned to either the control or intervention group (10% of total calorie from cashews). Weight, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), serum insulin concentration and sensitivity, lipid profile ratio, high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) were measured at baseline and after eight weeks of intervention adjusted for age, gender, baseline values of FPG, insulin, HOMA-IR (homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance), fiber, and both baseline and post-intervention vitamin C levels as covariates.
Results:
Weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference (WC) were not significantly different in the groups after eight weeks of intervention, as well as between the two groups, compared with the baseline measures. At the end of the study, serum insulin and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol-to-high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C/HDL-C) ratio significantly decreased in the cashews group compared with those of the controls (P = 0.01 and P = 0.04, respectively). Although, HOMA-IR decreased significantly in the cashews group (P = 0.03), changes were not significant compared with the baseline measures (P = 0.056). Despite more increase in PON-1 activity in the cashews group, the changes were not statistically significant.
Conclusions:
Daily consumption of cashews reduced serum insulin and LDL-C/HDL-C ratio in patients with T2DM. However, further studies with larger sample sizes and more duration are needed to confirm the current study results.
... Association between nut consumption and decreased risk of ischemic heart disease (IHD), cardiovascular disease (CVD), and the incidence and mortality of CVD has been consistently proven by the epidemiological studies [40]. Consumption of nuts also increases longevity in addition to protection against CVD [41]. Nuts being the dense source of energy due to the high content of bioactives play significant role in decreasing the risk of CVD through multiple mechanisms: by having positive influence on lipid and/or glucose homeostasis [42], hypercholesterolemia [43], obesity [44], oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers, and antioxidant defenses. ...
... Association between nut consumption and decreased risk of ischemic heart disease (IHD), cardiovascular disease (CVD), and the incidence and mortality of CVD has been consistently proven by the epidemiological studies [40]. Consumption of nuts also increases longevity in addition to protection against CVD [41]. Nuts being the dense source of energy due to the high content of bioactives play significant role in decreasing the risk of CVD through multiple mechanisms: by having positive influence on lipid and/or glucose homeostasis [42], hypercholesterolemia [43], obesity [44], oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers, and antioxidant defenses. ...
Nuts are nutritional containing foods that nature has gifted with complex matrix of bioactives and beneficial nutrients including poly- and monounsaturated fatty acids, antioxidant phenolics, phytosterols, tocopherols, minerals, fibers, and high-quality proteins. Because of their unique nutritional composition, they are beneficial to human health. Many epidemiological studies reported the beneficial effect of nuts on coronary heart diseases as well as in diabetes for both males and females. Nut crops also have good effects on inflammation, vascular damage, oxidative stress, cancer, and hypertension. Interventional studies reported that nut consumption has lipid lowering effect. Nuts are thus among the most highly nutritious foods available. When left in their shells, many nuts have a long lifespan and can be easily kept for winter use. Much research has been conducted on nuts and their beneficial effects on health. This chapter discusses the current knowledge of nuts crops and their beneficial effects on health. Currently available literature suggests that consumption of nuts particularly as part of healthy diet is associated with beneficial outcomes such as better cognitive function, decreased risk of cardiovascular and metabolic abnormalities, and cancer. Further, long-term and interventional studies are required to make a definitive conclusion on the health-promoting effects of nuts consumption through the diet.
... Association between nut consumption and decreased risk of ischemic heart disease (IHD), cardiovascular disease (CVD), and the incidence and mortality of CVD has been consistently proven by the epidemiological studies [40]. Consumption of nuts also increases longevity in addition to protection against CVD [41]. Nuts being the dense source of energy due to the high content of bioactives play significant role in decreasing the risk of CVD through multiple mechanisms: by having positive influence on lipid and/or glucose homeostasis [42], hypercholesterolemia [43], obesity [44], oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers, and antioxidant defenses. ...
... Previous studies have confirmed that apples are very rich in sugars and minerals (Singh et al., 2019;Preethi et al., 2021). Kernels have also been proven to be among the best oilseeds (Mah et al., 2017). There are weak relationships between the agro-morphological and nutritional parameters ( Figure 9C). ...
Cashew ( Anacardium occidentale L.) is a cross-pollinating plant whose fruit consists of two parts, the nut, and the apple. This study aimed to carry out agro-morphological characteristics of cashew fruits to establish relationships with their physicochemical and nutritional properties. Thirty (30) cashew accessions fruits were sampled in different regions of Burkina Faso. The length, width, thickness, weight, yield, kernel output ratio (KOR), proximate composition, specific minerals, phenolic compounds, and anti-nutritional factors were assessed. Evaluations were made using standard methods. The results showed significant variations in agro-morphological, physicochemical and nutritional traits depending on the accessions and the organ. Also, the ratio of apple mass versus nut one was about 12.24 ± 1.24. Kernels are an important source of proteins, fat, total phenolic compounds, and flavonoids, with average contents of 22.84 ± 1.25 g/100 g, 51.65 ± 2.54 g/100 g, 9.78 ± 2.15 mg GAE/g, and 6.24 ± 12.15 mg QE/g, respectively. As for the apples, they contained substantial quantities of Potassium, Phosphorus, Chlorine, and Magnesium with contents of 611.24 ± 14.5 mg/100 g, 418.24 ± 16.47 mg/100 g, 332.24 ± 10.54 mg/100 g, and 224.95 ± 13.15 mg/100 g, respectively. Statistical analyses showed that mineral and phytate contents were positively correlated to cashew apples while phenolic compounds and tannins were strongly correlated with walnuts. Principal component analyses showed three groups of accessions based on apples and kernels characteristics. These data showed a direct relationship between cashew physicochemical, nutritional potentials, kernels, and apples’ agro-morphological characteristics. These data constitute an important basis for the identification of cashew accessions with high nutritional and economic potential.
... These nuts had a higher content of Zn and Mg compared to data obtained by other authors and may be a rich source of these elements. Consumption of cashews for 28 days corresponding to 11% of the daily energy requirement (28-64 g/day) in patients with mild hypercholesterolemic disorders improved of lipid metabolism, i.e., TC and LDL-c were reduced [35]. A metaanalysis of three studies by Jalali et al. showed that the consumption of 30-42 g per day significantly reduced systolic BP but did not affect the lipid metabolism or diastolic BP in any of the studied groups (healthy adults and people with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and T2DM) [36]. ...
Nuts used as a snack and meal accompaniment supply plant protein and fatty acids that are beneficial for human health; however, they can also provide minerals. The aim of this study was to determine the content of selected elements that are often deficient in the diet (calcium, potassium, magnesium, selenium, and zinc) in nuts and determine whether they can be used to supplement deficiencies in the diet. In this study, we analyzed 10 types of nuts (n = 120 samples) that are consumed and available for sale in Poland. The content of calcium, magnesium, selenium, and zinc was determined by the atomic absorption spectrometry method, and flame atomic emission spectrometry was used for determination of potassium contents. The highest median calcium content was found in almonds (2825.8 mg/kg), the highest potassium content in pistachio nuts (15,730.5 mg/kg), the highest magnesium and selenium contents in Brazil nuts (10,509.2 mg/kg and 4348.7 μg/kg, respectively), and the highest zinc content in pine nuts (72.4 mg/kg). All the tested nuts are a source of magnesium, eight types of tested nuts are a source of potassium, six nut types are a source of zinc, and four nut types are a source of selenium; however, among the tested nuts, only almonds can be considered a source of calcium. Moreover, we found that selected chemometric methods can be useful in the classification of nuts. The studied nuts are valuable products that can be used to supplement the diet with selected minerals and can therefore be labelled as functional products crucial for disease prevention.
... Oleic acid is the predominant MUFA in all nuts, and linoleic acid appears to be the predominant PUFA in all edible seeds and nuts. Compared to other nuts, walnut, para nut (Brazil nut), and cashew had the highest concentrations of PUFA [29]. In the nut and seed product category, the highest atherogenic index was found for cocoa butter (AI = 0.67). ...
Dietary lipids derived from plants have different compositions of individual fatty acids (FA), providing different physical and chemical properties with positive or adverse health effects on humans. To evaluate the nutritional value and assess the FA composition of various plants, the atherogenicity (AI) and thrombogenicity (TI) indices were calculated and reviewed for nine different categories of fats and oils. This included common oils, unconventional oils, nut oils originating from temperate regions, Amazonian and tropical fats and oils, chia seed oil, traditional nuts originating from temperate regions, unconventional nuts, seeds, and fruits, and their products. The main factors influencing fatty acid composition in plants are growth location, genotype, and environmental variation, particularly temperature after flowering, humidity, and frequency of rainfall (exceeding cultivar variation). The lowest AI was calculated for rapeseed oil (0.05), whereas the highest value was obtained for tucuman seeds (16.29). Chia seed oil had the lowest TI (0.04), and murumuru butter had the highest (6.69). The differences in FA composition and subsequent changes in the lipid health indices of the investigated fats and oils indicate their importance in the human diet.
... However, results from different research on MUFA are conflicted. A study found that adding cashews to the typical American diet reduced total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, as compared to a control diet [14]. However, it was reported by another study that cashew nut supplementation increased HDL cholesterol levels and had no effect on TC and LDL-C concentration [15]. ...
Since the effects of mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) on lipid profile are still controversial, a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was conducted in the present study to assess the effect of MUFA-rich food on lipid profiles. The study was designed, conducted, and reported according to the guidelines of the 2020 preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement. A systematic and comprehensive search was performed in several databases from inception up to 30 January 2022. The results showed that the intake of edible oil-derived MUFA (EDM) could increase the blood HDL-C level (mean difference = 0.08; 95%CI: -0.01, 0.17, p = 0.03), but did not affect the level of TC, TG, or LDL-C. Moreover, the consumption of other food-derived MUFA (ODM) significantly decreased TG concentration (mean difference = -0.35; 95%CI: -0.61, -0.09, p = 0.01)), but did not affect the level of TC, LDL-C, or HDL-C. Findings from this study suggest that MUFA-rich food might be beneficial to modulate the blood lipid profile.
... , Ghadimi Nouran,Kimiagar et al. 2010, Lopez-Uriarte, Nogues et al. 2010, Ma, Njike et al. 2010, Rajaram, Connell et al. 2010, Torabian, Haddad et al. 2010, West, Krick et al. 2010, Wien, Bleich et al. 2010, Wu, Pan et al. 2010, Casas- Agustench, López-Uriarte et al. 2011, Davidi, Reynolds et al. 2011, Din, Aftab et al. 2011, Li, Liu et al. 2011, Sola, Fito et al. 2011, Tey, Brown et al. 2011, Aronis, Vamvini et al. 2012, Chiang, Haddad et al. 2012, Foster, Shantz et al. 2012, Mohamedou, Tacha et al. 2012, Sola, Valls et al. 2012, West, Gebauer et al. 2012, Damasceno, Sala-Vila et al. 2013, Liu, Liu et al. 2013, Orem, Yucesan et al. 2013, Somerset, Graham et al. 2013, Tey, Gray et al. 2013, Bento, Cominetti et al. 2014, Burns-Whitmore, Haddad et al. 2014, Colpo, Vilanova et al. 2014, Gulati, Misra et al. 2014, Lee, Nam et al. 2014, Moreira Alves, Boroni Moreira et al. 2014, Parham, Heidari et al. 2014, Sauder, McCrea et al. 2014, Sweazea, Johnston et al. 2014, Berryman, West et al. 2015, Carvalho, Huguenin et al. 2015, Chen, Holbrook et al. 2015, Jamshed, Sultan et al. 2015, Njike, Ayettey et al. 2015, Ruisinger, Gibson et al. 2015, Sauder, McCrea et al. 2015, Agebratt, Ström et al. 2016, Dhillon, Tan et al. 2016, Bamberger, Rossmeier et al. 2017, Lee, Berryman et al. 2017, Mah, Schulz et al. 2017, Zibaeenezhad, Farhadi et al. 2017, de Souza, Gomes et al. 2018, Jenkins, Kendall et al. 2018, Jung, Chen et al. 2018, McKay, Eliasziw et al. 2018, Mohan, Gayathri et al. 2018) However, 91 studies did not meet the inclusion criteria and were excluded for the following reasons as shown inFigure 3.1. ...
Among the physiological and metabolic changes occurring with ageing, the ageing of heart function is a key determinant of health. The death number from CVDs is expected to reach over 23.6 million
by 2030. An estimated 17.9 million people died from CVDs in 2019 in the UK, representing 32% of all
global deaths. Evidence suggested that the Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) (25-50 ml/day) is highly reported as associated with a reduction of CV risk factors. However, the acceptability of the Mediterranean diet and the feasibility of this dietary pattern which includes consumption of olive oil remains unknown among Caucasians and East Asians in Northeast England. An Online Survey with two ethnicities in equal number and similar mean age and BMI that were undertaken for this PhD programme indicating that the acceptability and frequency of olive oil
intake among East Asians is higher with a great MD score (8.02±SD1.8) (p<0.001) while Caucasians who consume olive oil were scored higher for MD score (6.51±SD2.2) (p<0.001), scored higher for
MD acceptability (10.21±SD2.3) (p=0.017) and reported lower perceived barriers to healthy eating (PBHE) (1.81±SD4.0) (p=0.03) than non-consumers. Olive oil intake is likely to be positively
associated with older age, higher MD score, higher MD acceptability and lower PBHE in both ethnicities. Evidence examining the effectiveness of nuts and olive oil, on both traditional and novel
CV risk factors, in a comprehensive study in adults with different ethnic background is lacking. Our systematic reviews and meta-analysis of previous relevant literature on nuts that were undertaken for this PhD programme showed that nuts improve TC (MD: -7.54; 95% CI: -10.2 to -4.89; p < 0.00001; I2=59%, n=66), HDL (MD: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.04 to 1.75; P=0.04; I2= 53%; n=67), LDL (MD: -7.21; 95%
CI: -9.38 to -5.04; P< 0.00001; I2= 68%; n=68), TG (MD: -8.83; 95% CI: -13.12 to -4.53; P< 0.0001; I2= 64%; n=65) and FMD (MD: 0.74; 95% CI: 0.09 to 1.39; P=0.03; I2=5%, n=10). The non-Asiangroup potentially tends to benefit more CV biomarkers with moderate nut consumption than Asian group. Olive oil systematic review reported that olive oil improves biomarker - PAI-1 (MD: -1.02ng/ml, 95% CI: -1.92 to -0.12; p = 0.03, I2 = 0%). Nevertheless, studies on olive oil on different ethnicities
were lacking. A 6-week, cross-over, randomised controlled dietary interventional study with 2 weeks interventional duration was undertaken to test the effects of EVOO on cardiovascular health. Overall, this study provided evidence on the benefits of over a 2-week period produced a positive effect on 24-hour SBP including daytime SBP, night-time DBP and MAP and TC, LDL for all participants. For
East Asians, olive oil exerts a beneficial effect on 24-hour SBP and daytime SBP, MAP while night�time DBP was improved among Caucasians following EVOO. EVOO intake also has a positive effect
on blood lipids - TC and circulating biomarkers - sE-selectin in East Asians while LDL and non-HDL are improved among Caucasians after EVOO intake. The findings reported in the present thesis could be valuable to health professionals to develop more effective interventions and could also help the public to make better informed food choices relating to cardiovascular health
... However, the effects varied based on the type and amount of nut, consumption duration, characteristics of the studied individuals, and study design (93)(94)(95)(96)(97)(98). Most studies in this field that have shown a significant effect of nuts consumption on lipid factors have reported a dose of 20-64 g/day and a duration of 4-24 weeks (18,20,21,53,57,70). (95) found that following a healthy diet enriched with 30 g of walnuts for 6 months caused a significant reduction in LDL-C and increased HDL-C in subjects with diabetes. ...
Background
Nuts are in the spotlight because of their association with improved health outcomes. We aimed to summarize the findings of previous studies to evaluate the impact of nuts consumption on glycaemic and lipid profile, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
Methods
Electronic searches for observational and intervention studies were undertaken in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Science Direct until 2022 for searching the studies aiming the application of different types of nuts and the beneficial effects of nuts in improving glycemia, dyslipidemia, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
Results
Results from 56 interventional, 9 narrative and 3 systematic reviews, and 12 meta-analysis studies, aiming at the evaluating beneficial effects of different types of nuts on metabolic markers, showed that nut consumption could improve metabolic markers, including glycaemic factors, lipid profile, and inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters in both healthy and individuals with metabolic disorders in a type-, dose- and duration-dependent manner. According to their unique nutrient components, nuts can be known as a part of a healthy diet, resulting in improved metabolic biomarkers.
Conclusion
Considering the efficacy of nuts in improving metabolic markers, incorporation of, incorporating nuts the effectiveness of nuts in improving metabolic markers, incorporating nuts in the diet may prevent the incidence or aggravation of chronic metabolic diseases. Considering the health benefits of the nuts' components, including essential micronutrients, if consumed in the appropriate dose and duration to provide the necessary amount of effective micronutrients to improve health, we will see an improvement in metabolic factors. At the same time, more research is required to determine the optimal type, dose, and duration of nut intervention with regards to metabolic control and reducing the risk of developing metabolic disorders.
... On the other hand, two clinical trials with an intervention of 28-64 g/day and 30 g/day with cashews found no significant difference in TG levels post intervention compared with the control group [70,71]. ...
Approximately 25–50% of the population worldwide exhibits serum triglycerides (TG) (≥150 mg/dL) which are associated with an increased level of highly atherogenic remnant-like particles, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and pancreatitis risk. High serum TG levels could be related to cardiovascular disease, which is the most prevalent cause of mortality in Western countries. The etiology of hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) is multifactorial and can be classified as primary and secondary causes. Among the primary causes are genetic disorders. On the other hand, secondary causes of HTG comprise lifestyle factors, medical conditions, and drugs. Among lifestyle changes, adequate diets and nutrition are the initial steps to treat and prevent serum lipid alterations. Dietary intervention for HTG is recommended in order to modify the amount of macronutrients. Macronutrient distribution changes such as fat or protein, low-carbohydrate diets, and caloric restriction seem to be effective strategies in reducing TG levels. Particularly, the Mediterranean diet is the dietary pattern with the most consistent evidence for efficacy in HTG while the use of omega-3 supplements consumption is the dietary component with the highest number of randomized clinical trials (RCT) carried out with effective results on reducing TG. The aim of this review was to provide a better comprehension between human nutrition and lipid metabolism.
... Many studies have shown that tree nut consumption is associated with several cardiovascular benefits [7][8][9][10]. Tree nuts have a high content of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), protein, fiber, and antioxidant vitamins like Vitamin E and selenium, which are important components of a heart-healthy diet [11][12][13][14][15]. Tree nut consumption has been shown to decrease blood pressure [16,17] as well as reduce total and LDL cholesterol levels [18][19][20][21]. These data suggest that tree nut consumption may favorably influence subclinical atherosclerosis, including carotid atherosclerosis [22]. ...
PurposeWhile tree nut consumption has been shown to be cardioprotective, a few studies have examined the relationship between tree nut consumption and carotid atherosclerosis. We tested the hypothesis that tree nut consumption would be inversely related with carotid atherosclerosis in adults.Methods
We cross-sectionally analyzed data from 4536 participants of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Family Heart Study conducted in the United States. Dietary patterns among participants were variable, tree nut consumption was self-reported using the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), and B-mode ultrasound of the carotid arteries was used to assess for the presence of carotid artery plaques (primary outcome) and carotid intima media thickness (cIMT). Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of prevalent carotid artery plaques and linear regression was used to estimate adjusted mean cIMT across categories of nut consumption.ResultsThe mean age was 52.3 years (SD = 13.6), 95.6% of the participants were white, and 54% were female. The median tree nut intake was 1–3 servings/month. Odds ratios (95% CI) for prevalent carotid artery plaques were 1.0 (reference), 1.03 [0.86, 1.4], 0.89 [0.70, 1.13], and 0.96 [0.73, 1.26] for tree nut consumption of almost never, 1–3 times/month, 1/week, and 2+/week, respectively, adjusting for age, sex, race, field center, BMI, smoking status, alcohol consumption, creatinine, energy intake, fruit and vegetable consumption, exercise, and education. In secondary analysis, there was a suggestive inverse association of tree nut consumption with cIMT in the internal carotid artery, but not the common carotid or bifurcation.Conclusion
Our data showed no association between tree nut consumption and prevalence of carotid artery plaques in adults.
... Another advantage of using seeds or nuts oils is the fatty acids pattern [4], which may also improve other aspects of the health of patients with CKD, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and lipid profile [11][12][13][14][15][16]. From this perspective, the baru almond (Dipteryx alata Vog.) has been gaining prominence [17,18]. ...
Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in patients in hemodialysis treatment and were frequently associated with low intake of dietary fibers and liquids, oral iron supplementation, phosphate binders, and low level of physical activity. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of baru almond oil in comparison with mineral oil supplementation on bowel habits of hemodialysis patients. Thirty-five patients on hemodialysis (57% men, 49.9 ± 12.4 years) were enrolled in a 12-week single-blind clinical trial. Patients were allocated (1 : 2) by sex and age into (1) the mineral group: 10 capsules per day of mineral oil (500 mg each) or (2) the baru almond oil group: 10 capsules per day of baru almond oil (500 mg each). Bowel habits were assessed by the Rome IV criteria, Bristol scale, and self-perception of constipation. Food consumption, physical activity level, and time spent sitting were also evaluated at the baseline and at the end of the study. After 12 weeks of supplementation, the baru almond oil group showed reduced Rome IV score (6.1 ± 5.5 vs 2.8 ± 4.3, p=0.04) and the straining on the evacuation score (1.2 ± 1.4 vs 0.4 ± 0.7; p=0.04), while the mineral group did not show any change in the parameters. The frequency of self-perception of constipation was lower in the baru almond oil group after intervention (45.0% vs 15.0%, p=0.04). Baru almond oil improved bowel habit and the straining on evacuation in hemodialysis patients.
... Cashew nuts because of their high saturated fat content were exempted from "heart healthy" health claim by Federal Drug Administration in the year 2003. However, many recent studies claim the ability of cashew nuts to lower total and LDL-C [127]. In 2018, a 12-week randomized controlled study conducted by Mohan V and colleagues [128] reported that cashew nut supplementation reduced systolic blood pressure and increased HDL-C in Asian Indians with type-2 diabetes mellitus with no deleterious effects on body weight, glycemia, or other lipid variables. ...
In recent times, the Mediterranean diet plans are very popular because it has a lot of advantage in protecting from chronic health problems. Nuts are the integral part of the Mediterranean diet and advised to be incorporated in diet for health benefits. Both tree nuts and pea nut are good source of unsaturated fatty acids, soluble and insoluble fibers, good quantity of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals with recognized benefits to human health. Due to life style disorders many chronic diseases are increasing in human beings. There are many epidemiological studies and research conducted on the relationship between consumption of nuts and chronic disease risks. This book chapter elaborately discusses about the nutritional composition of the nuts and their effect on cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes and cancer.
... Jenis kacang-kacangan yang digunakan dalam pembuatan snack bar adalah kacang mede. Kacang mede memiliki kandungan asam lemak tak jenuh yang tinggi, protein yang tinggi serta kaya akan berbagai macam jenis antioksidan yang dapat mencegah terjadinya penyakit sindrom metabolik (Mah et al., 2017). ...
The objective of this study was to analyze the nutrition content, antioxidant activity, mineral bio-availability and amino acid composition of a bee pollen snack bar. This study was a pure experimental study along with complete randomized design. The treatment factor was the addition of bee pollen which resulted in five formulas. The product was made from Sormeal, rice crispy, chocolates, dates, cashews and bee pollen. Formula F3 with the addition of bee pollen of 10% was analyzed for its nutrient content, antioxidant activity and availability of Fe and Zn. The F3 formula contained 5.91% water, 1.72% ash, 11.30% protein, 16.52% fat and 64.52 carbohydrate. The antioxidant activity test of the product was 10.77 mg ascorbic acid/g sample. Meanwhile, the bioavalaibility of Fe and Zn of the product were 17.02 and 6.84 mg/kg, respectively. This product can be considered as a nutritious snack that could improve imunity and potentially improve school-aged children learning performance.
... These data indicate that the replacement of animal fats with vegetable sources of fats and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) may decrease the risk of CV disease (CVD). However, clinical trials relating cashew nuts to cardiovascular disease risk factors, including LDL-cholesterol, are limited to four conflicting studies [135][136][137][138]. In one controlled-feeding study conducted on a total of 42 adults as a randomized crossover trial, the addition of 42 g of cashews/day was associated with a significant reduction of PCSK9 plasma levels (270.8 ng/mL vs. 252.6 ...
Genetic, epidemiological and pharmacological data have led to the conclusion that antagonizing or inhibiting Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) reduces cardiovascular events. This clinical outcome is mainly related to the pivotal role of PCSK9 in controlling low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. The absence of oral and affordable anti-PCSK9 medications has limited the beneficial effects of this new therapeutic option. A possible breakthrough in this field may come from the discovery of new naturally occurring PCSK9 inhibitors as a starting point for the development of oral, small molecules, to be used in combination with statins in order to increase the percentage of patients reaching their LDL-cholesterol target levels. In the present review, we have summarized the current knowledge on natural compounds or extracts that have shown an inhibitory effect on PCSK9, either in experimental or clinical settings. When available, the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profiles of the listed compounds are described.
... 60 and 18 percent of the fats in cashew are MUFA and PUFA, respectively. Although there are more than 4 g of saturated fat per 50 g of cashew, it should have borne in mind that about 40-50 % of the saturated fats in cashew are as stearic acid that has no effect on plasma LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations. 1 , 14 A number of studies have examined the effects of consumption of cashew on lipid profile and blood pressure. However, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have reported conflicting results, and therefore do not provide clear information for dietary recommendations. ...
Background
Dyslipidemia and hypertension are important risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Some studies have suggested that the consumption of nuts may reduce CVD risk.
Objective
The present systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the efficacy of cashew nut consumption on lipid profile and blood pressure.
Methods
PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Library were systematically searched to identify randomized control trials (RCTs) examining the effects of cashew nut intake on serum triglycerides (TG), high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), serum total cholesterol (TC), systolic blood pressure (SBP) or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) until 15 November 2019. Random-effects or fixed-effects models were used to pool weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Potential publication bias was assessed using Egger’s test. Sensitivity analysis was performed to assess the impact of each individual study on the pooled results.
Results
A meta-analysis on 392 participants showed that cashew consumption had no significant effects on lipid profile and DBP. However, there was a significant reduction in SBP (WMD = -3.39, 95% CI = [-6.13, -0.65], P = 0.01, I² = 0.0%) in the group receiving an increased cashew nut intake compared to the controls. There was no significant publication bias in the meta-analysis. A sensitivity analysis, omitting single trials in turn, did not have a significant effect on the pooled results.
Conclusion
This meta-analysis demonstrated that cashew nut consumption might reduce SBP but has no effects on lipid profile and DBP.
... [2][3][4] In addition, they are suggested to have positive health effects, as consumption of the cashew nut kernel has been linked to reduction of cholesterol levels and coronary heart disease risks. 1,5,6 Some cashew nut proteins however, may induce adverse reactions in tree nut allergic individuals, with symptoms ranging from mild (like nausea, diarrhea, eczema, asthma) to severe reactions 7 which are associated with a high risk of anaphylaxis. 8 oral tingling or itching (pruritus) with or without swelling of the lips, oral mucosa and throat (angioedema). ...
Proteins from cashew nut can elicit mild to severe allergic reactions. Three allergenic proteins have already been identified, and it is expected that additional allergens are present in cashew nut. PATHOGENESIS‐RELATED PROTEIN 10 (PR10) allergens from pollen have been found to elicit similar allergic reactions as those from nuts and seeds. Therefore, we investigated the presence of PR10 genes in cashew nut. Using RNA‐seq analysis, we were able to identify several PR10‐like transcripts in cashew nut and clone six putative PR10 genes. In addition, PR10 protein expression in raw cashew nuts was confirmed by immunoblotting and LC–MS/MS analyses. An in silico allergenicity assessment suggested that all identified cashew PR10 proteins are potentially allergenic and may represent three different isoallergens.
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... and the intake of excess nutrients and calories (Koeth et al., 2013;Mah et al., 2017). For example, trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) can be generated by the action of gut microbiota lyase and host hepatic enzymes following the intake of l-carnitine, choline, betaine, or lecithin (derived from red meat and eggs sources) and are implicated in the development of cardiovascular events in both experimental animal model systems and public health studies . ...
The expression of the carbohydrate‐active enzyme family and related genes is known to be influenced by the response of intestinal microbiota to dietary changes. However, it is uncertain whether this is caused by variation in the intestinal microecology. In this study, metabolite analysis, 16S rDNA sequencing, metagenomics, and Western blotting were employed to investigate the effects of dietary intervention on the composition of gut microbiota and microbiota‐mediated changes. The results showed that compared with the low fiber‐fed group, the fiber diet‐fed mice displayed a shift in gut microbiota composition to contain more members of phylum Bacteroidetes, accompanied by higher proportions of Akkermansia and typical probiotic Bifidobacterium. Moreover, correlations were found between microbial genes coding for carbohydrate‐binding module family 48 (CBM48) and intestinal epithelial expression levels of AMPK β. This finding provides new insight for elucidating the contribution of dietary intervention through AMPK regulation linked to the microbial carbohydrate‐binding family.
Practical applications
The relationship suggested by these data will provide theoretical and applied foundations for the development of potential intervention targeting the interaction between gut microbiota and host health, particularly the use of dietary fiber as a medically relevant food. Additionally, a better understanding of the interactions between gut microbiota and intestinal epithelial will inform the development of gut microbiota intervention as a health‐promoting procedure.
... In contrast, a meta-analysis indicated that pistachio and walnut consumption had no favorable effects on TG reduction (13), hazelnuts showed lowering effects on LDL cholesterol (13), and almonds significantly decreased TC compared with the control (13,41). There are several possible explanations for these inconsistent results: since the publication of these traditional meta-analyses (13,40,41), 11 trials have been published (42)(43)(44)(45)(46)(47)(48)(49)(50)(51)(52); the eligibility criteria of our network metaanalysis are different from the previous meta-analyses because we excluded studies using nut supplementations combined with diets with potential therapeutic effects on lipid control (such as cholesterol-lowering diet, Mediterranean-type diet, and low-fat diet); and the network meta-analysis pools direct and indirect evidence in a network of included studies. This methodology is an extension of the traditional meta-analysis. ...
Background:
Recent evidence has confirmed that nuts are one of the best food groups at reducing LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol (TC). However, the comparative effects of different types of nuts on blood lipids are unclear.
Objectives:
This network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials aimed to assess the comparative effects of walnuts, pistachios, hazelnuts, cashews, and almonds on typical lipid profiles.
Methods:
We conducted literature searches to identify studies comparing ≥2 of the following diets-walnut-enriched, pistachio-enriched, hazelnut-enriched, cashew-enriched, almond-enriched, and control diets-for the management of triglycerides (TGs), LDL cholesterol, TC, and HDL cholesterol. Random-effects network meta-analyses, ranking analyses based on the surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA) curves, and sensitivity analyses according to the potential sources of heterogeneity across the included studies were performed for each outcome.
Results:
Thirty-four trials enrolling 1677 participants were included in this study. The pistachio-enriched diet was ranked best for TG (SUCRA: 85%), LDL cholesterol (SUCRA: 87%), and TC (SUCRA: 96%) reductions. For TG and TC reductions, the walnut-enriched diet was ranked as the second-best diet. Regarding LDL cholesterol reduction, the almond-enriched diet was ranked second best. The pistachio-enriched and walnut-enriched diets were more effective at lowering TG, LDL cholesterol, and TC compared with the control diet. Regarding TG and TC reductions, the pistachio-enriched diet was also more effective than the hazelnut-enriched diet. For TG reduction, the walnut-enriched diet was better than the hazelnut-enriched diet. However, these findings are limited by the low quality of evidence ratings. In addition, the quality of this network meta-analysis was limited by the small number and generally poor reporting of available studies.
Conclusions:
The pistachio-enriched and walnut-enriched diet could be better alternatives for lowering TGs, LDL cholesterol, and TC compared with other nut-enriched diets included in this study. The findings warrant further evaluation by more high-quality studies.This network meta-analysis was registered at www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO as CRD42019131128.
... The benefits of the addition of nuts in a healthy diet in comparison of a low-fat diet have been reported by Estruch et al. (2013) wherein they reported 30 % reduction in the incidence of major cardiovascular disorders and mortality in individuals consuming a Mediterranean diet supplemented with a handful of nuts a day, compared to those that are advised to consume a low-fat diet. Mah et al. (2017) revealed the reduction in TC (Total Cholesterol and) by 3.9 % and that of LDL by 2.3 % upon consumption of cashew nuts (28-64g/day) in comparison with the control group fed with potato chips. ...
... Improvements in diet and exercise can be enhanced by avoiding saturated fats and cholesterol, as well as consuming greater proportions of plant stanols/sterols and soluble fiber [3]. Moreover, lower LDL-C levels can be achieved by consuming greater proportions of oats, avocados, nuts, soybeans, tomatoes, apples, and prunes [5][6][7][8][9][10][11]. ...
Dyslipidemia is exemplified by high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and represents a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and requires therapeutic intervention. Several experimental studies suggest that bitter melon ( Momordica charantia ) improves lipid metabolism in animal models of dyslipidemia and diabetes. This study evaluated the effects of bitter melon extracts on lipid metabolism following a 30-day treatment period in Japanese adults. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial included 43 adult volunteers who received either 100 mg of hot-water extracts of bitter melon ( n = 23) or a placebo ( n = 20) three times daily for 30 days. The body weight, blood pressure, and levels of LDL-C and other blood parameters of each subject were measured before and after the study period. The results showed that the intervention group exhibited significantly lower LDL-C levels ( P = 0.02) as compared with the control group, and there were no significant changes in either group in terms of body weight, body mass index, systolic pressure, diastolic pressure, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, or blood glucose. These results suggested that bitter melon extracts might effectively lower LDL-C levels in humans and exhibit potential therapeutic value for the management of dyslipidemic conditions.
Successful weight management represents a challenge to obesity control. Evidence suggests that nut consumption promotes a prolonged satiety response. Therefore, we hypothesize that nuts could be associated with greater weight loss in comparison to the control group, and we evaluate the acute and long-term effects of Brazilian nuts (BN: 15g of Brazil nuts + 30g of cashew nuts) included in an energy-restricted intervention on food intake, appetite, and peptide hormones. We conducted an 8-week, randomized, open-label, controlled, parallel-arm clinical trial with 28 women at cardiometabolic risk that received an energy-restricted diet containing BN or an energy-restricted nut-free diet (control). At baseline and after 8 weeks of intervention, subjective postprandial appetite ratings were assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS) before and after consumption (0, 10, 60, 120, 180, and 240 min) of a 437 kcal nut-enriched (BN group) or nut-free (control) breakfast meal. Subsequently, an ad libitum lunch was served, and they completed another VAS at 280 min. Plasma concentrations of ghrelin, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), and leptin were measured at fasting and postprandially at 60, 120, and 240 min. Lastly, subsequent reported 24h energy intake was assessed in a free-living setting. BN consumption did not have acute effects on food intake, appetite, or peptide hormones. However, after an 8-week intervention, postprandial ghrelin (ΔAUC) decreased in BN group in comparison to the control (mean difference, 1978 pg/mL∙min, 95% CI, 27-3929 pg/mL∙min; p = 0.047). Therefore, an energy-restricted diet containing demonstrated potential to decrease hunger in cardiometabolic risk women.
Extensive research has revealed numerous benefits of many nutrients in the diet that could optimize brain function, which is critically important for everyone, especially particularly in light of the many potential long-term negative neurobiological consequences that survivors of adverse childhood experiences and trauma may experience throughout their life course. The purpose of this chapter is to present a review of the literature on the state of the science on the impact of dietary nutrition on the brain including specific diets, vitamins, herbs, spices, nutraceuticals, and essential fatty acids. Additionally, the emerging research on the microbiota-gut-brain axis, neuro-immunity, prebiotics, and probiotics associated with brain function and specific conditions such as autism spectrum disorders, neuropsychiatric conditions and neurodegeneration are described. Pragmatics for an anti-inflammatory brain health diet include foods that could optimize brain function, foods that could be detrimental to brain function, timing of food choices throughout the day, caloric restriction and directions for future research and public health policy are addressed. Optimally soon, much more research evidence will be available about precision and personalized nutritional approaches to optimize dietary guidance and improve nutritional status. Precision and personalized nutrition should vary between individuals for those who already have particular illnesses or are at risk for certain conditions that may potentially be prevented or delayed with specific dietary interventions.
Cashew nut is a popular food around the world. The high-resolution profiles and dynamics of metabolomes in cashew fruits are poorly understood till now. In this study, we analyzed the temporal metabolome of cashew nut via a non-targeted method based on UHPLC-Q-Exactive-MS, and analyzed that of cashew apple via a widely targeted method based on UHPLC-QTRAP-MS/MS (MRM). Furthermore, we performed integrative analyses of temporal metabolome and transcriptome data, characterized the accumulation of specific metabolites, and identified the transcriptional changes during cashew fruit development. Specifically, we found that phosphatidylinositol species were the predominant fractions in the unsaturated glycerophospholipids, and we identified a transcription factor that was the potential regulator of phosphatidylinositol biosynthesis. Analysis of cashew apple revealed metabolic genes and transcription factors involved in sugar biosynthesis. Taken together, our results provide insights into metabolic networks during cashew fruit development and generate a valuable resource for further cashew breeding studies.
This review provides information on nutritional characteristics, extraction techniques, bioactive compounds, bioavailability and bioaccessibility through in vitro and in vivo assays on nuts and food products obtained from walnuts, such as almonds, walnuts, cashew nuts, pistachios, hazelnuts, walnuts, walnuts, macadamia nuts, Brazil nuts, pine nuts and peanuts. The influence of the consumption of these nuts on human health was carried out through a meta-analysis. Data meta-analysis indicated that nut consumption has a positive effect on total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein levels in the population. Although there are promising studies, more research is needed to determine the beneficial effects of these nuts when applied to products.
Abbreviations: ALA: Alpha Linolenic Acid; Ca: Calcium; CVD: Cardiovascular Disease; CI: Confidence Interval; DBP: Diastolic Blood Pressure; EAE: Enzyme Assisted Extraction; GRAS: Generally Recognized as Safe; HDL: high-density lipoprotein; LDL: Low-Density Lipoprotein; Mg: Magnesium; MD: Mean Difference; MAE: Microwave Accelerated Extraction; MUFAS: Monounsaturated Fatty Acids; PUFAS: Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids; K: Potassium; PLE: Pressurized Liquid Extraction; SFAs: Saturated Fatty Acids; SD: Standard Deviation; SFE: Supercritical Fluid Extraction; SBP: Systolic Blood Pressure; UAE: Ultrasound Accelerated Extraction; Zn: Zinc
In the genesis of cardiovascular disease, nutrition is an important pillar because it represents the possible modifiable factors, along with physical activity. Some dietary approaches are associated with cardiovascular health:
The protective effects of Mediterranean diet for individuals with and without chronic diseases include delayed progression and regression of metabolic syndrome, longevity, and even cancer. The DASH is known to lower blood pressure in patients with hypertension and prehypertension, due to a high consumption of potassium, magnesium, and calcium, as well as proteins and fibers present in this dietary pattern.
The low-carbohydrate diet can improve glycemic and lipid status with lower VLDL cholesterol production; cardiometabolic factors are minimized, with greater effect on satiety and greater long-term benefit in reducing body fat percentage.
There is strong evidence in the literature of the benefits of vegetarian diets on cardiovascular disease risk and coronary mortality.
The healthy food pattern plays an important and irreplaceable full role in preventing and treating CVD.KeywordsCardiovascular diseasesNutritionMediterranean dietDietary approaches to stop hypertensionCarbohydrate-restricted dietVegetarian diet
Several mechanisms have been proposed for the beneficial effect of nuts on health. However, Brazil and cashew nuts remain the least studied. We aim to evaluate the effect of these nuts within an energy-restricted diet on body weight, body composition, cardiometabolic markers, and endothelial function in cardiometabolic risk women. Brazilian nuts study is a randomized controlled parallel 8-week dietary intervention trial. Forty women were randomly allocated to 1) Control group: Energy-restricted diet without nuts, n= 19 or, 2) Brazil and cashew nuts group (BN-Group): Energy-restricted diet containing daily 45 g of nuts (15 g of Brazil nuts + 30g of cashew nuts), n= 21. At the beginning and final intervention, anthropometry, body composition, and blood pressure were measured. Fasting blood sampling was obtained to evaluate lipid profile, glucose homeostasis, and endothelial function markers. After 8-week, plasma selenium concentration increased in BN-group (∆ = + 31.5 ± 7.8 μg/L; p= 0.001). Brazil and cashew nuts intake reduced total body fat (-1.3 ± 0.4 %) parallel to improvement of lean mass percentage in BN-group compared to the control. Besides, the soluble adhesion molecule VCAM-1 decreased (24.03 ± 15.7 pg/mL vs. -22.2 ± 10.3 pg/mL; p= 0.019) after Brazil and cashew nuts intake compared to the control. However, lipid and glucose profile markers, apolipoproteins, and blood pressure remained unchanged after the intervention. Thus, the addition of Brazil and cashew nuts to an energy-restricted diet can be a healthy strategy to improve body composition, selenium status, and endothelial inflammation in cardiometabolic risk women.
Background & Aims
Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have assessed the effects of nut consumption on the blood lipid profile. The aim of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis to quantitatively estimate the effects of nut consumption on the blood lipid profile.
Methods and Results
The PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases were systematically searched to identify RCTs examining the effects of nut intake on blood total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides (TGs) from inception until March 2021. A random-effects model was used to pool standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Potential publication bias was assessed using Begg’s test and Egger’s test. Sensitivity analysis was performed to assess the impact of each individual study on the pooled results. The meta-analysis showed that nut consumption had no significant effect on the blood lipid profile. However, there was a significant reduction in TC (SMD: -2.89, 95% CI: -4.80, -0.98, I²=97.4) for pistachio consumption, and cashew consumption significantly increased HDL-C (SMD: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.04, 0.43, I²=0.0) compared with that in controls. There was no significant publication bias in the meta-analysis. The sensitivity analysis showed that removing one study at a time did not change the significance of the results.
Conclusion
There was no overall effect of nut consumption on the lipid profile, and the results may vary depending on nut type. We found that pistachio consumption may reduce TC levels, while cashew consumption increases HDL-C.
Registry number
PROSPERO CRD42021249147.
Background and aims
Present meta-analysis and systematic review was conducted to synthesis a definitive conclusion from previous randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs).
Methods
A comprehensive search was done up to July 2020, in order to extract RCTs which investigated the effect of cashew nut on weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin, and Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR). Weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to estimate effect size. Meta regression analysis was done to identify probable sources of heterogeneity.
Results
Six clinical trials with 521 participants were included. Combined effect sizes demonstrated no effect of cashew consumption on weight (WMD): 0.02, 95% CI: −1.04, 1.09, P > 0.05), BMI (WMD: 0.1, 95% CI: −0.72, 0.74, P > 0.05), and WC (WMD: −0.13, 95% CI: −1.97, 1.70, P > 0.05). Results were also not significant for FBS (WMD: 3.58, 95% CI: −3.92, 11.08, P > 0.05), insulin (WMD: −0.19, 95% CI: −1.63, 1.25, P > 0.05), and HOMA-IR (WMD: 0.25, 95% CI: −0.55, 1.06, P > 0.05).
Conclusion
The sum up, incorporating cashew into the diet has no significant effect on body composition or modifying glycemic indices.
This review presents existing evidence of the influence of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids on cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Data are discussed regarding the roles of the most relevant fatty acids, such as myristic (C14:0), palmitic (C16:0), stearic (C18:0), palmitoleic (C16:1), oleic (C18:1), linoleic (C18:2), α-linolenic (C18:3, ω-3), γ-linolenic (C18:3, ω-6), arachidonic (C20:4), eicosapentaenoic (C20:5), docosahexaenoic (C22:6), and docosapentaenoic (C22:5) acid. The accumulated knowledge has expanded the understanding of the involvement of fatty acids in metabolic processes, thereby enabling the transition from basic exploratory studies to practical issues of application of these biomolecules to CVD treatment. In the future, these findings are expected to facilitate the interpretation and prognosis of changes in metabolic lipid aberrations in CVD.
Background
The consumption of nuts and edible seeds is associated with the improvement of the metabolic profile and reduction of cardiovascular diseases. However, the effects of its subproducts, such as oil, are still poorly studied. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the baru almond oil supplementation on inflammation, oxidative stress, body composition, lipid profile, and plasma fatty acids of hemodialysis patients.
Methods
In a randomized, double-blind, 12-week placebo-controlled clinical study, hemodialysis patients were supplemented with 5 g of baru oil (BG, n = 17) or 5 g of mineral oil (placebo, BP, n = 12). Body composition, renal function, ultra-sensitive C-reactive protein (us-CRP), oxidative stress, plasma fatty acids, and lipid profile were analysed before and after the intervention.
Results
Patients were aged 50.5 ± 2.2 years and the average time of dialyses was 52,1 ± 42,6 months. The BG decreased us-CRP concentration compared to PG (-1.2 ± 0.2 vs. + 0.8 ± 0.2 mg / L,d = 0.88; p = 0.01). Baru almond oil supplementation was not effective in improving body composition, lipid profile, and oxidative stress.
Conclusion
Baru almond oil supplementation decreased us-CRP concentration in patients with chronic kidney disease under hemodialysis treatment.
Drugs from nature are in incredible demand in various countries for essential human health services because of their wide therapeutic effects and lesser expenses. Medicinal plants are important source of compounds with potential health benefits. Nuts from different medicinal plants are also important source of bioactive phytochemicals such as proteins, fibers, minerals, tocopherols, phytosterols, and phenols. Scientific investigations have interconnected nut utilization with a declined incidence of coronary illness and hypertension. Interventions demonstrated that nut consumption has a cholesterol-lowering effect. Nuts from medicinal plants beneficially affect numerous factors associated with cardiovascular disorders. This chapter presents detail profile of nuts from India and their health effects specifically in cardiovascular disease conditions.
As part of a population-based approach to combating obesity, the American Heart Association (AHA) has published specific dietary guidelines for the management of obesity and cardiovascular disease prevention. These guidelines give a primary view of healthy dietary changes and goals which may reduce cardiovascular risk. The AHA guideline on Cardiovascular Prevention focuses on the benefits of a Plant-Based Diet and the Mediterranean diet. In addition to these recommendations, several other diets exist with variable long-term cardiovascular outcomes. In recent years, the ketogenic and intermittent fasting diets have been emerging and have garnered their own respective followings as weight loss strategies, and we will include them in our discussion of the potential long-term benefits related to cardiovascular risks. As the guidelines emphasize, all of the diets we will cover throughout this review must be discussed at the level of the individual patient with their primary care provider, and cannot be exercised without informed consent regarding the potential outcomes. Further research is required, and caution is advised before prescribing any of these diets to patients in the long-term, due to the potential to exacerbate cardiovascular risk factors.
Objective:
Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and a healthy diet may be part of an overall healthy lifestyle. The association between cardiorespiratory fitness and adherence to an overall Mediterranean Diet (MedD) pattern and specific MedD foods has been assessed.
Design:
Subjects completed a lifestyle survey and dietary pattern, using the validated MedD Adherence 14-item questionnaire and two self-reported 24-h dietary recalls. Participants' height, body weight, waist circumference (WC), and CRF (maximum oxygen uptake, VO2max, ml/kg/min) were measured.
Setting:
University of Cádiz, Spain.
Subjects:
A sample of young adults (n = 275, 22.2 ± 6.3 years).
Results:
Mean VO2max was 43.9 mL/kg/min (SD 8.5 mL/kg/min). Most participants had healthy CRF (75.9%). The average MedD score was 6.2 points (SD 1.8 points). Participants who consumed more servings of nuts had higher VO2max. Those who showed low CRF performed less physical activity (PA) and had a higher body mass index (BMI) and WC compared with those classified as having healthy CRF. Nut consumption was positively associated with VO2max (β = 0.320; 95% CI 2.4, 10.7; p < 0.002), adjusting for sex, age, smoking PA, BMI, WC, and energy intake, showing the subjects who consumed more nuts were fitter than young adults who consumed less.
Conclusions:
CRF is positively associated with nut consumption but not with the overall MedD pattern and all other MedD foods in the young adults. The subjects who consumed more servings of nuts were fitter than young adults who consumed less. Moreover, fitter subjects performed more PA and had a lower BMI and WC than those who had lower fitness levels.
The purpose of this review was to determine whether the recommendation to reduce saturated fatty acid (SFA) consumption to treat or prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD) is relevant in the context of current peer-reviewed, evidence-based literature. A literature review regarding SFA and CVD was conducted using articles from 2011 to 2018 through PubMed. Three hundred seventy-four articles were found, of which 211 were excluded. The remainder included 37 primary research articles and 21 reviews. All of the publications were examined using the Evidence Analysis Library Quality Criteria. Existing evidence supporting a reduction in SFA to treat/prevent CVD is limited and conflicting.
Each year, the American Heart Association (AHA), in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institutes of Health, and other government agencies, brings together the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular and metabolic diseases and presents them in its Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Update. The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policy makers, media professionals, clinicians, healthcare administrators, researchers, and others seeking the best available data on these conditions. Together, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and stroke produce immense health and economic burdens in the United States and globally. The Statistical Update brings together in a single document up-to-date information on the core health behaviors (including diet, physical activity [PA], smoking, and energy balance) and health factors (including blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose) that define cardiovascular health; a range of …
Background:
The effects of nuts on major cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, including dose-responses and potential heterogeneity by nut type or phytosterol content, are not well established.
Objectives:
We examined the effects of tree nuts (walnuts, pistachios, macadamia nuts, pecans, cashews, almonds, hazelnuts, and Brazil nuts) on blood lipids [total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides], lipoproteins [apolipoprotein A1, apolipoprotein B (ApoB), and apolipoprotein B100], blood pressure, and inflammation (C-reactive protein) in adults aged ≥18 y without prevalent CVD.
Design:
We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Two investigators screened 1301 potentially eligible PubMed articles in duplicate. We calculated mean differences between nut intervention and control arms, dose-standardized to one 1-oz (28.4 g) serving/d, by using inverse-variance fixed-effects meta-analysis. Dose-response for nut intake was examined by using linear regression and fractional polynomial modeling. Heterogeneity by age, sex, background diet, baseline risk factors, nut type, disease condition, duration, and quality score was assessed with meta-regression. Publication bias was evaluated by using funnel plots and Egger's and Begg's tests.
Results:
Sixty-one trials met eligibility criteria (n = 2582). Interventions ranged from 3 to 26 wk. Nut intake (per serving/d) lowered total cholesterol (-4.7 mg/dL; 95% CI: -5.3, -4.0 mg/dL), LDL cholesterol (-4.8 mg/dL; 95% CI: -5.5, -4.2 mg/dL), ApoB (-3.7 mg/dL; 95% CI: -5.2, -2.3 mg/dL), and triglycerides (-2.2 mg/dL; 95% CI: -3.8, -0.5 mg/dL) with no statistically significant effects on other outcomes. The dose-response between nut intake and total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol was nonlinear (P-nonlinearity < 0.001 each); stronger effects were observed for ≥60 g nuts/d. Significant heterogeneity was not observed by nut type or other factors. For ApoB, stronger effects were observed in populations with type 2 diabetes (-11.5 mg/dL; 95% CI: -16.2, -6.8 mg/dL) than in healthy populations (-2.5 mg/dL; 95% CI: -4.7, -0.3 mg/dL) (P-heterogeneity = 0.015). Little evidence of publication bias was found.
Conclusions:
Tree nut intake lowers total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, ApoB, and triglycerides. The major determinant of cholesterol lowering appears to be nut dose rather than nut type. Our findings also highlight the need for investigation of possible stronger effects at high nut doses and among diabetic populations.
Consumption of tree nuts and legume seeds is associated with a reduction in cardiovascular risk. The reduction in blood lipids and in inflammatory and oxidative processes exhibited by bioactive compounds such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, fibers, phenolic compounds, tocopherols, phospholipids, carotenoids, some minerals, and arginine, has stimulated research on the mechanisms of action of these substances through distinct experimental approaches. It is, therefore, important to know the metabolic effect of each nut and legume seed or the mixture of them to choose the most suitable nutritional interventions in clinical practice. The aim of this narrative bibliographic review was to investigate the effects of tree nuts and legume seeds on biomarkers of cardiovascular risk, as well as their mechanisms of action with regard to lipid profiles, insulin resistance, arterial pressure, oxidative stress, and inflammation. The findings indicate that a mixture of nuts and legume seeds optimizes the protective effect against cardiovascular risk.
© The Author(s) 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the International Life Sciences Institute. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.
Evidence consistently shows that almond consumption beneficially affects lipids and lipoproteins. Almonds, however, have not been evaluated in a controlled-feeding setting using a diet design with only a single, calorie-matched food substitution to assess their specific effects on cardiometabolic risk factors.
In a randomized, 2-period (6 week/period), crossover, controlled-feeding study of 48 individuals with elevated LDL-C (149±3 mg/dL), a cholesterol-lowering diet with almonds (1.5 oz. of almonds/day) was compared to an identical diet with an isocaloric muffin substitution (no almonds/day). Differences in the nutrient profiles of the control (58% CHO, 15% PRO, 26% total fat) and almond (51% CHO, 16% PRO, 32% total fat) diets were due to nutrients inherent to each snack; diets did not differ in saturated fat or cholesterol. The almond diet, compared with the control diet, decreased non-HDL-C (-6.9±2.4 mg/dL; P=0.01) and LDL-C (-5.3±1.9 mg/dL; P=0.01); furthermore, the control diet decreased HDL-C (-1.7±0.6 mg/dL; P<0.01). Almond consumption also reduced abdominal fat (-0.07±0.03 kg; P=0.02) and leg fat (-0.12±0.05 kg; P=0.02), despite no differences in total body weight.
Almonds reduced non-HDL-C, LDL-C, and central adiposity, important risk factors for cardiometabolic dysfunction, while maintaining HDL-C concentrations. Therefore, daily consumption of almonds (1.5 oz.), substituted for a high-carbohydrate snack, may be a simple dietary strategy to prevent the onset of cardiometabolic diseases in healthy individuals.
www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique Identifier: NCT01101230.
© 2015 The Authors. Published on behalf of the American Heart Association, Inc., by Wiley Blackwell.
Ten different nut kinds (almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamias, peanuts, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios, and walnuts) were evaluated for their total oil and phytosterol content as well as their fatty acid composition. The total oil content was the predominant component; mean values oscillated between 45.2 % (cashews) and 74.7 % (macadamias). Mean total phytosterol content ranged from 71.7 mg (Brazil nuts) to 271.9 mg (pistachios) per 100 g oil. ß-sitosterol was the major sterol (mean >71.7 mg/100 g oil) followed by minor contents of campesterol, ergosterol, and stigmasterol. Almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamias, and pistachios were high in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA; > 55 %). MUFA- and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)-rich nuts were peanuts and pecans, whereas Brazil nuts, pine nuts, and walnuts had the highest PUFA content (> 50 %); the high unsaturated/saturated fatty acid ratio ranged from 4.5 to 11.8. However, the fatty acid pattern of every nut is unique.
Consumption of almonds has been shown to be associated with a decreased risk of CHD, which may be related to their fatty acid (FA) composition. However, the effect of almond consumption on the serum FA composition is not known. Therefore, in the present study, we investigated whether almond consumption would alter the serum FA profile and risk of CHD, as calculated using Framingham's 10-year risk score, in a dose-dependent manner in hyperlipidaemic individuals when compared with a higher-carbohydrate control group using dietary interventions incorporating almonds. A total of twenty-seven hyperlipidaemic individuals consumed three isoenergetic (mean 1770 kJ/d) supplements during three 1-month dietary phases: (1) full-dose almonds (50-100 g/d); (2) half-dose almonds with half-dose muffins; (3) full-dose muffins. Fasting blood samples were obtained at weeks 0 and 4 for the determination of FA concentrations. Almond intake (g/d) was found to be inversely associated with the estimated Framingham 10-year CHD risk score (P= 0·026). In both the half-dose and full-dose almond groups, the proportions of oleic acid (OA) and MUFA in the TAG fraction (half-almond: OA P= 0·003; MUFA P= 0·004; full-almond: OA P< 0·001; MUFA P< 0·001) and in the NEFA fraction (half-almond: OA P= 0·01; MUFA P= 0·04; full-almond: OA P= 0·12; MUFA P= 0·06) increased. The estimated Framingham 10-year CHD risk score was inversely associated with the percentage change of OA (P= 0·011) and MUFA (P= 0·016) content in the TAG fraction. The proportions of MUFA in the TAG and NEFA fractions were positively associated with changes in HDL-cholesterol concentrations. Similarly, the estimated Framingham 10-year CHD risk score was inversely associated with the percentage change of OA (P= 0·069) and MUFA content in the NEFA fraction (P= 0·009). In conclusion, the results of the present study indicate that almond consumption increases OA and MUFA content in serum TAG and NEFA fractions, which are inversely associated with CHD lipid risk factors and overall estimated 10-year CHD risk.
High stearic acid (STA) soybean oil is a trans-free, oxidatively stable, non-LDL-cholesterol-raising oil that can be used to replace trans fatty acids (TFAs) in solid fat applications.
The objective was to assess the cardiovascular health effects of dietary STA compared with those of trans, other saturated, and unsaturated fatty acids.
We reviewed epidemiologic and clinical studies that evaluated the relation between STA and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, including plasma lipids and lipoproteins, hemostatic variables, and inflammatory markers.
In comparison with other saturated fatty acids, STA lowered LDL cholesterol, was neutral with respect to HDL cholesterol, and directionally lowered the ratio of total to HDL cholesterol. STA tended to raise LDL cholesterol, lower HDL cholesterol, and increase the ratio of total to HDL cholesterol in comparison with unsaturated fatty acids. In 2 of 4 studies, high-STA diets increased lipoprotein(a) in comparison with diets high in saturated fatty acids. Three studies showed increased plasma fibrinogen when dietary STA exceeded 9% of energy (the current 90th percentile of intake is 3.5%). Replacing industrial TFAs with STA might increase STA intake from 3.0% (current) to approximately 4% of energy and from 4% to 5% of energy at the 90th percentile. One-to-one substitution of STA for TFAs showed a decrease or no effect on LDL cholesterol, an increase or no effect on HDL cholesterol, and a decrease in the ratio of total to HDL cholesterol.
TFA intake should be reduced as much as possible because of its adverse effects on lipids and lipoproteins. The replacement of TFA with STA compared with other saturated fatty acids in foods that require solid fats beneficially affects LDL cholesterol, the primary target for CVD risk reduction; unsaturated fats are preferred for liquid fat applications. Research is needed to evaluate the effects of STA on emerging CVD risk markers such as fibrinogen and to understand the responses in different populations.
Abbreviations:
A1C = hemoglobin A1C AACE = American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists ACCORD = Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes ACCORD BP = Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Blood Pressure ACEI = angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor ADVANCE = Action in Diabetes and Vascular Disease: Preterax and Diamicron MR Controlled Evaluation AGI = alpha-glucosidase inhibitor apo B = apolipoprotein B ASCVD = atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease BAS = bile acid sequestrant BMI = body mass index BP = blood pressure CHD = coronary heart disease CKD = chronic kidney disease CVD = cardiovascular disease DASH = Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension DPP-4 = dipeptidyl peptidase 4 eGFR = estimated glomerular filtration rate FDA = Food and Drug Administration GLP-1 = glucagon-like peptide 1 HDL-C = high-density lipoprotein cholesterol IMPROVE-IT = Improved Reduction of Outcomes: Vytorin Efficacy International Trial LDL-C = low-density lipoprotein cholesterol LDL-P = low-density lipoprotein particle Look AHEAD = Look Action for Health in Diabetes NPH = neutral protamine Hagedorn OSA = obstructive sleep apnea SFU = sulfonylurea SGLT-2 = sodium glucose cotransporter-2 SMBG = self-monitoring of blood glucose T2D = type 2 diabetes TZD = thiazolidinedione VADT = Veterans Affairs Diabetes Trial.
Each year, the American Heart Association (AHA), in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institutes of Health, and other government agencies, brings together the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular and metabolic diseases and presents them in its Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Update. The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policy makers, media professionals, clinicians, healthcare administrators, researchers, and others seeking the best available data on these conditions. Together, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and stroke produce immense health and economic burdens in the United States and globally. The Statistical Update brings together in a single document up-to-date information on the core health behaviors and health factors that define cardiovascular health; a range of major clinical disease conditions (including stroke, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, …
Oleic acid consumption is considered cardio-protective according to studies conducted examining effects of the Mediterranean diet. However, animal models have shown that oleic acid consumption increases LDL particle cholesteryl oleate content which is associated with increased LDL-proteoglycan binding and atherosclerosis. The objective was to examine effects of varying oleic, linoleic and docosahexaenoic acid consumption on human LDL-proteoglycan binding in a non-random subset of the Canola Oil Multi-center Intervention Trial (COMIT) participants. COMIT employed a randomized, double-blind, five-period, cross-over trial design. Three of the treatment oil diets: 1) a blend of corn/safflower oil (25:75); 2) high oleic canola oil; and 3) DHA-enriched high oleic canola oil were selected for analysis of LDL-proteoglycan binding in 50 participants exhibiting good compliance. LDL particles were isolated from frozen plasma by gel filtration chromatography and LDL cholesteryl esters quantified by mass-spectrometry. LDL-proteoglycan binding was assessed using surface plasmon resonance. LDL particle cholesterol ester fatty acid composition was sensitive to the treatment fatty acid compositions, with the main fatty acids in the treatments increasing in the LDL cholesterol esters. The corn/safflower oil and high-oleic canola oil diets lowered LDL-proteoglycan binding relative to their baseline values (p = 0.0005 and p = 0.0012, respectively). At endpoint, high-oleic canola oil feeding resulted in lower LDL-proteoglycan binding than corn/safflower oil (p = 0.0243) and DHA-enriched high oleic canola oil (p = 0.0249), although high-oleic canola oil had the lowest binding at baseline (p = 0.0344). Our findings suggest that high-oleic canola oil consumption in humans increases cholesteryl oleate percentage in LDL, but in a manner not associated with a rise in LDL-proteoglycan binding.
Plant sterols and stanols are natural food ingredients found in plants. It was already shown in 1950 that they lower serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations. Meta-analysis has reported that a daily intake of 2.5 g plant sterols/stanols reduced serum LDL-C concentrations up to 10%. Despite many studies, the underlying mechanism remains to be elucidated. Therefore, the proposed mechanisms that have been presented over the past decades will be described and discussed in the context of the current knowledge. In the early days, it was suggested that plant sterols/stanols compete with intestinal cholesterol for incorporation into mixed micelles as well as into chylomicrons. Next, the focus shifted toward cellular processes. In particular, a role for sterol transporters localized in the membranes of enterocytes was suggested. All these processes ultimately lowered intestinal cholesterol absorption. More recently, the existence of a direct secretion of cholesterol from the circulation into the intestinal lumen was described. First results in animal studies suggested that plant sterols/stanols activate this pathway, which also explains the increased fecal neutral sterol content and as such could explain the cholesterol-lowering activity of plant sterols/stanols.
The National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel guidelines have established low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) treatment goals, and secondary non-high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-C treatment goals for persons with hypertriglyceridemia. The use of lipid-lowering therapies, particularly statins, to achieve these goals has reduced cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity and mortality; however, significant residual risk for events remains. This, combined with the rising prevalence of obesity, which has shifted the risk profile of the population toward patients in whom LDL-C is less predictive of CVD events (metabolic syndrome, low HDL-C, elevated triglycerides), has increased interest in the clinical use of inflammatory and lipid biomarker assessments. Furthermore, the cost effectiveness of pharmacological intervention for both the initiation of therapy and the intensification of therapy has been enhanced by the availability of a variety of generic statins. This report describes the consensus view of an expert panel convened by the National Lipid Association to evaluate the use of selected biomarkers [C-reactive protein, lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A(2), apolipoprotein B, LDL particle concentration, lipoprotein(a), and LDL and HDL subfractions] to improve risk assessment, or to adjust therapy. These panel recommendations are intended to provide practical advice to clinicians who wrestle with the challenges of identifying the patients who are most likely to benefit from therapy, or intensification of therapy, to provide the optimum protection from CV risk.
Previous measures of physical activity for epidemiologic studies were considered Inadequate to meet the needs of a community-based health education trial. Therefore, new methods of quantifying the physical activity habits of communities were developed which are practical for large health surveys, provide Information on the distribution of activity habits in the population, can detect changes in activity over time, and can be compared with other epidemiologic studies of physical activity. Independent sell-reports of vigorous activity (at least 6 metabolic equivalents (METs)), moderate activity (3–5 METs), and total energy expenditure (kilocalories per day) are described, and the physical activity practices of samples of California cities are presented. Relationships between physical activity measures and age, education, occupation, ethnicity, marital status, and body mass index are analyzed, and the reliabilities of the three activity indices are reported. The new assessment procedure is contrasted with nine other measures of physical activity used in community surveys.
Consumption of nuts has been associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease events and death. Walnuts in particular have a unique profile: they are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, which may improve blood lipids and other cardiovascular disease risk factors.
We aimed to conduct a literature review and a meta-analysis to combine the results from several trials and to estimate the effect of walnuts on blood lipids.
Literature databases were searched for published trials that compared a specifically walnut-enhanced diet with a control diet. We conducted a random-effects meta-analysis of weighted mean differences (WMDs) of lipid outcomes.
Thirteen studies representing 365 participants were included in the analysis. Diets lasted 4-24 wk with walnuts providing 10-24% of total calories. When compared with control diets, diets supplemented with walnuts resulted in a significantly greater decrease in total cholesterol and in LDL-cholesterol concentrations (total cholesterol: WMD = -10.3 mg/dL, P < 0.001; LDL cholesterol: WMD = -9.2 mg/dL, P < 0.001). HDL cholesterol and triglycerides were not significantly affected by walnut diets more than with control diets (HDL cholesterol: WMD = -0.2, P = 0.8; triglycerides: WMD = -3.9, P = 0.3). Other results reported in the trials indicated that walnuts provided significant benefits for certain antioxidant capacity and inflammatory markers and had no adverse effects on body weight [body mass index (kg/m(2)): WMD = -0.4, P = 0.5; weight (kg): WMD = -0.05, P = 0.97].
Overall, high-walnut-enriched diets significantly decreased total and LDL cholesterol for the duration of the short-term trials. Larger and longer-term trials are needed to address the effects of walnut consumption on cardiovascular risk and body weight.
A predictive equation for resting energy expenditure (REE) was derived from data from 498 healthy subjects, including females (n = 247) and males (n = 251), aged 19-78 y (45 +/- 14 y, mean +/- SD). Normal-weight (n = 264) and obese (n = 234) individuals were studied and REE was measured by indirect calorimetry. Multiple-regression analyses were employed to drive relationships between REE and weight, height, and age for both men and women (R2 = 0.71): REE = 9.99 x weight + 6.25 x height - 4.92 x age + 166 x sex (males, 1; females, 0) - 161. Simplification of this formula and separation by sex did not affect its predictive value: REE (males) = 10 x weight (kg) + 6.25 x height (cm) - 5 x age (y) + 5; REE (females) = 10 x weight (kg) + 6.25 x height (cm) - 5 x age (y) - 161. The inclusion of relative body weight and body-weight distribution did not significantly improve the predictive value of these equations. The Harris-Benedict Equations derived in 1919 overestimated measured REE by 5% (p less than 0.01). Fat-free mass (FFM) was the best single predictor of REE (R2 = 0.64): REE = 19.7 x FFM + 413. Weight also was closely correlated with REE (R2 = 0.56): REE = 15.1 x weight + 371.
We compared a high-carbohydrate diet with a high-fat diet (specifically, a diet high in monounsaturated fatty acids) for effects on glycemic control and plasma lipoproteins in 10 patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) receiving insulin therapy. The patients were randomly assigned to receive first one diet and then the other, each for 28 days, in a metabolic ward. In the high-carbohydrate diet, 25 percent of the energy was in the form of fat and 60 percent in the form of carbohydrates (47 percent of the total energy was in the form of complex carbohydrates); the high-monounsaturated-fat diet was 50 percent fat (33 percent of the total energy in the form of monounsaturated fatty acids) and 35 percent carbohydrates. The two diets had the same amounts of simple carbohydrates and fiber. As compared with the high-carbohydrate diet, the high-monounsaturated-fat diet resulted in lower mean plasma glucose levels and reduced insulin requirements, lower levels of plasma triglycerides and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (lower by 25 and 35 percent, respectively; P less than 0.01), and higher levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (higher by 13 percent; P less than 0.005). Levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol did not differ significantly in patients on the two diets. These preliminary results suggest that partial replacement of complex carbohydrates with monounsaturated fatty acids in the diets of patients with NIDDM does not increase the level of LDL cholesterol and may improve glycemic control and the levels of plasma triglycerides and HDL cholesterol.
A method for estimating the cholesterol content of the serum low-density lipoprotein fraction (Sf- 0.20)is presented. The method involves measure- ments of fasting plasma total cholesterol, tri- glyceride, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations, none of which requires the use of the preparative ultracentrifuge. Cornparison of this suggested procedure with the more direct procedure, in which the ultracentrifuge is used, yielded correlation coefficients of .94 to .99, de- pending on the patient population compared. Additional Keyph rases hyperlipoproteinemia classifi- cation #{149} determination of plasma total cholesterol, tri- glyceride, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol #{149} beta lipo proteins
In the present study we used regression analyses to evaluate the effects of stearic acid (18:0) on total cholesterol (TC), low-density-lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density-lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) concentrations (mmol/L). Using data from 18 articles, we developed the following predictive equations (monounsaturated fatty acids, MUFAs; polyunsaturated fatty acids, PUFAs): delta TC = 0.0522 delta 12:0-16:0 - 0.0008 delta 18:0 - 0.0124 delta MUFA - 0.0248 delta PUFA; delta LDL-C = 0.0378 delta 12:0-16:0 + 0.0018 delta 18:0 - 0.0178 delta MUFA - 0.0248 delta PUFA; delta HDL-C = 0.0160 delta 12:0-16:0 - 0.0016 delta 18:0 + 0.0101 delta MUFA + 0.0062 delta PUFA. Our analyses revealed that unlike the other long-chain saturated fatty acids (SFAs), stearic acid had no effect on TC and lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations in men and women. MUFAs elicited an independent hypocholesterolemic effect that we believe is due to the small amount of 12:0-16:0 in the experimental diets evaluated. The observation that stearic acid has unique effects on TC, LDL-C, and HDL-C provides additional compelling evidence that it be distinguished from the other major SFAs in blood cholesterol predictive equations.
The purpose of this review is to summarize our current understanding of the cholesterolemic effects of individual fatty acids. Although historically there has been great interest in the fatty acid classes, it has been only recently that emphasis has shifted to individual fatty acids. Consequently, and in conjunction with the methodologic challenges inherent in studying individual fatty acids, our database is relatively modest. Nonetheless, it is clear that saturated fatty acids are hypercholesterolemic and that unsaturated fatty acids elicit a hypocholesterolemic effect compared with saturated fatty acids. The question at hand is, What are the relative cholesterolemic effects of the major saturated and unsaturated fatty acids in the diet? On the basis of a limited number of well-controlled studies, it appears that myristic acid is the most potent saturated fatty acid. Of the saturated fatty acids, stearic acid is uniquely different in that it appears to be a neutral fatty acid. Monounsaturated fatty acids appear to exert a neutral effect or to be mildly hypocholesterolemic. trans Fatty acids elicit effects that are intermediate to those of the hypercholesterolemic saturated fatty acids and the cis-monounsaturated and cis-polyunsaturated fatty acids. Polyunsaturated fatty acids elicit the most potent hypocholesterolemic effects. Studies are needed to establish the potency with which each fatty acid affects plasma total and lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations as well as the mechanisms that account for their markedly different effects. This information will be useful in making dietary recommendations for individual fatty acids that may further reduce risk of chronic diseases in the United States.
The high intake of olive oil in the Mediterranean diet contributes to the low intake of saturated fatty acids among populations in Southern Europe and is associated with a low incidence of coronary heart disease. Replacement of saturated fatty acids with oleic acid leads to a reduction in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol without decreasing the concentration of high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Oleic acid, however, may not be neutral with regards to its effects on risk of thrombosis which may have adverse consequences in populations with established atherosclerosis.
Phytosterols were quantified in nuts and seeds commonly consumed in the United States. Total lipid extracts were subjected to acid hydrolysis and then alkaline saponfication, and free sterols were analyzed as trimethylsilyl derivatives by capillary GC-FID and GC-MS. Delta5-Avenasterol was quantified after alkaline saponification plus direct analysis of the glucoside. Sesame seed and wheat germ had the highest total phytosterol content (400-413 mg/100 g) and Brazil nuts the lowest (95 mg/100 g). Of the products typically consumed as snack foods, pistachio and sunflower kernel were richest in phytosterols (270-289 mg/100 g). beta-Sitosterol, Delta5-avenasterol, and campesterol were predominant. Campestanol ranged from 1.0 to 12.7 mg/100 g. Only 13 mg/100 g beta-sitosterol was found in pumpkin seed kernel, although total sterol content was high (265 mg/100 g). Phytosterol concentrations were greater than reported in existing food composition databases, probably due to the inclusion of steryl glycosides, which represent a significant portion of total sterols in nuts and seeds.
Effects of a high walnut and high cashew nut diet on selected markers of the metabolic syndrome: a controlled feeding trial
- J Mukuddem-Petersen
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- W Jerling
- J C Hanekom
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USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, release 28 (slightly revised
- Usda Ars
USDA ARS, Nutrient Data Laboratory. USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, release 28 (slightly revised May 2016).
Energy intakes: percentages of energy from protein, carbohydrate, fat, and alcohol, by gender and age, what we eat in America, NHANES 2013-2014
- Agricultural Usda
- Research Service
USDA, Agricultural Research Service. 2016. Energy intakes: percentages of energy from protein, carbohydrate, fat, and alcohol, by
gender and age, what we eat in America, NHANES 2013-2014. [Internet]. [cited 2016 Sep 9]. https://www.ars.usda.gov/ARSUserFiles/
80400530/pdf/1314/Table_5_EIN_GEN_13.pdf.
Effects of a high walnut and high cashew nut diet on selected markers of the metabolic syndrome: a controlled feeding trial
- Mukuddem-Petersen
Nutrient Data Laboratory USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, release 28 (slightly revised
- Usda Ars