Nuts are important for your heart.

There is compelling evidence showing that nut intake confers protection against cardiovascular diseases (CVD). A literature review concerning observational studies and randomized trials completed over the last 25 years that examined nut intake and CVD outcomes.

Collectively, data from observational and interventional studies indicate a strong and significant association between nut intake and decreased risk of fatal and non-fatal coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, and sudden death; and a somewhat weaker association with stroke.

The main mechanism by which nuts protect against CVD is by improving lipid and apolipoprotein profiles. Growing evidence also indicates that nut consumption may confer CVD protection by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and improving endothelial function. Nut components such as unsaturated fatty acids, l-arginine, beneficial minerals, phenolic compounds, and phytosterols appear to be of utmost importance for their health effects.

This review did not define the quantity, but regularity in intake and small amounts are important. Talk to your doctor or nutritionist.

Prog Cardiovasc Dis. 2018 May - Jun;61(1):33-37. doi: 10.1016/j.pcad.2018.05.003. Epub 2018 May 22.

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