Effects of Almond Consumption on Selected Markers of Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of almond consumption on serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in individuals at risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). An electronic database search was performed on PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library from inception through October 2024. Summary effect size measurements […]
Perspective: Current Scientific Evidence and Research Strategies in the Role of Almonds in Cardiometabolic Health
Almonds are consumed by individuals around the world. Because almonds are rich in protein, unsaturated fatty acids, and fiber, a significant amount of research has been conducted on their role in affecting various cardiometabolic endpoints (body weight, blood pressure, blood cholesterol levels, and glycemic response). The most current meta-analyses on almond consumption and various health-related […]
Consuming Pecans as a Snack Improves Lipids/Lipoproteins and Diet Quality Compared to Usual Diet in Adults at Increased Risk for Cardiometabolic Diseases: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Background: The vascular and cardiometabolic effects of pecans are relatively under-studied. Objectives: The aim was to examine how substitution of usual snack foods with 57 g/day of pecans affects vascular health, risk factors for cardiometabolic diseases and diet quality, compared to continuing usual intake in individuals at risk for cardiometabolic diseases. Methods: A 12-week single-blinded, […]
Effects of Longer-Term Mixed Nut Consumption on Lipoprotein Particle Concentrations in Older Adults with Overweight or Obesity
Background: Recently, we reported that longer-term mixed nut intake significantly reduced serum total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, but these markers may not fully capture lipoprotein-related cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Objectives: This randomized, controlled, single-blinded, crossover trial in older adults with overweight or obesity examined the effects of longer-term mixed nut consumption on lipoprotein particle size, […]
Effect of Premeal Pistachio Supplementation on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors among Asian Indian Adults with Prediabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Background: Asian Indians are susceptible to developing type 2 diabetes at a lower age and often consume diets that are high in glycemic load and low in healthy fats. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of 30 g prebreakfast and 30 g predinner supplementation of pistachios for 12 wk on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), […]
Effect of Nut Consumption on Blood Lipids: An updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Aims: Nuts are nutrient-dense foods touted for their health-promoting effects, especially regarding cardiovascular health, yet inconsistencies in the literature remain in relation to their effect on blood lipids. Hence, a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to determine the effect of nut intake on blood lipids. Data Synthesis: MEDLINE-PubMed and […]
Cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale L.) and cashew nut oil reduce cardiovascular risk factors in adults on weight-loss treatment: a randomized controlled three-arm trial (Brazilian Nuts Study)
Introduction: Cashew nut contains bioactive compounds that modulate satiety and food intake, but its effects on body fat during energy restriction remains unknown. This study aimed to assess the effects of cashew nut and cashew nut oil on body fat (primary outcome) as well as adiposity, cardiometabolic and liver function markers (secondary outcomes). Materials and […]
The Effects of Almond Consumption on Cardiovascular Health and Gut Microbiome: A Comprehensive Review
The consumption of almonds has been associated with several health benefits, particularly concerning cardiovascular and intestinal health. In this comprehensive review, we compile and deliberate studies investigating the effects of almond consumption on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and gut health. Almonds are rich in monounsaturated fats, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and polyphenols, which contribute to […]
Muesli Intake May Protect Against Coronary Artery Disease: Mendelian Randomization on 13 Dietary Traits
Background: Diet is a key modifiable risk factor of coronary artery disease (CAD). However, the causal effects of specific dietary traits on CAD risk remain unclear. With the expansion of dietary data in population biobanks, Mendelian randomization (MR) could help enable the efficient estimation of causality in diet-disease associations. Objectives: The primary goal was to […]
Effects of Prune (Dried Plum) Supplementation on Cardiometabolic Health in Postmenopausal Women: An Ancillary Analysis of a 12-Month Randomized Controlled Trial, The Prune Study
Background: Estrogen withdrawal during menopause is associated with an unfavorable cardiometabolic profile. Prunes (dried plums) represent an emerging functional food and have been previously demonstrated to improve bone health. However, our understanding of the effects of daily prune intake on cardiometabolic risk factors in postmenopausal women is limited. Objectives: We conducted an ancillary investigation of […]