All nuts are a heart healthy addition to any balanced diet. They are a great high-protein, calorically-dense snack rich in vitamins, minerals, flavanoids and other important nutrients. And macadamia nuts are no exception! These sweet, creamy, crunchy, luxuriously delicious nuts, more often thought of as a high-fat indulgence rather than a health food, are in fact healthier than you might think. Although they are high in fat, nearly 80 percent of it is monounsaturated fat–the “good” kind of fat that lowers your overall cholesterol and your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and raises your HDL (“good”) cholesterol. They are naturally cholesterol-free and are a great source of fibre. Macadamia nuts also contain vitamin A, thiamine, vitamin E, riboflavin, niacin and iron.

Great source of palmitoleic Acid

Macadamia nuts are one of the very few plants that contain palmitoleic acid, also known as omega 7, a monounsaturated fatty acid that works to lower your cholesterol – thus reducing your risk of heart disease. Some studies have also suggested that palmitoleic acid may also affect your body’s metabolism, curbing your appetite and helping you burn fat faster, which means that those high-fat macadamia nuts could be an all-natural diet food! Palmitoleic acid is also important for skin health. Macadamia nut oil is an excellent addition to lotions and skin creams and helps keep your cells functioning properly.

Vitamin E and thiamin

Macadamia nuts are an excellent source of thiamin, also known as vitamin B1.  Thiamin is necessary for converting carbohydrates into energy and for maintaining the health of the nervous system. Macadamia nuts are also a good source for riboflavin (vitamin B2), niacin (vitamin B3) and vitamin B6. Macadamia nuts also contain vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects your cells from the damaging effects of free radicals. Vitamin E also helps heal wounds and may reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease.

Rich in omega 3s

Macadamia nuts are a tasty source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid with a wide range of benefits. Regular consumption will help lower your risk of heart disease, cancer and osteoporosis and will help prevent or reduce the severity of arthritis, menstrual cramps and migraine headaches. Omega-3s are also essential for a healthy nervous system, and may help relieve depression. Macadamia nuts have a healthy 6:1 ratio between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. Scientists generally recommend a ratio somewhere between 1:1 and 10:1.

So indulge in a few delicious macadamia nuts everyday – guilt free!