The Role of Tree Nuts and Peanuts in the Prevention of Coronary Heart Disease: Multiple Potential Mechanisms
Epidemiologic and clinical trial evidence has demonstrated consistent benefits of nut and peanut consumption on coronary heart disease (CHD) risk and associated risk factors. The epidemiologic studies have reported various endpoints; including fatal CHD; total CHD death; total CHD; and nonfatal myocardial infarct. A pooled analysis of 4 U.S. epidemiologic studies showed that subjects in […]
In Vitro Activity of Almond Skin Polyphenols for Scavenging Free Radicals and Inducing Quinone Reductase
Observational studies and clinical trials suggest nut intake; including almonds; is associated with an enhancement in antioxidant defense and a reduction in the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease. Almond skins are rich in polyphenols (ASP) that may contribute to these putative benefits. To assess their potential mechanisms of action; we tested the in vitro […]
Release of protein; lipid; and vitamin E from almond seeds during digestion
The evaluation of the bioaccessibility of almond nutrients is incomplete. However; it may have implications for the prevention and management of obesity and cardiovascular disease. This study quantified the release of lipid; protein; and vitamin E from almonds during digestion and determined the role played by cell walls in the bioaccessibility of intracellular nutrients. Natural […]
Variability of Oil Content and of Major Fatty Acid Composition in Almond (Prunus amygdalus Batsch) and Its Relationship with Kernel Quality
Oil content and fatty acid composition were determined for two years in the kernel oil of eight cultivars and 47 advanced self-compatible almond genotypes developed in an almond breeding program. Considerable variation between genotypes was found for all parameters. Oil content ranged from 48% to 67% of the total kernel dry weight but was consistent […]
Effect of almonds on insulin secretion and insulin resistance in nondiabetic hyperlipidemic subjects: a randomized controlled crossover trial
Nuts appear to have a marked effect in cohort studies in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD); but their demonstrated ability to lower cholesterol can only explain a proportion of the reduction in risk. Our aim was to assess whether improvement in carbohydrate metabolism provides a further explanation for the effect of nuts […]
The effect of nuts on inflammation
Inflammation is one of the recognised mechanisms involved in the development of atherosclerotic plaque and insulin resistance. Inflammatory or endothelial markers such as C-Reactive Protein (CRP); Interleukin-6 (IL-6); fibrinogen; Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and Intracellular Adhesion Molecule-1 (ICAM-1) have been identified as independent predictors of cardiovascular disease (CVD) or diabetes in human prospective studies. […]
A macadamia nut-rich diet reduces total and LDL-cholesterol in mildly hypercholesterolemic men and women
Epidemiologic studies and clinical trials have demonstrated that the unique fatty acid profile of nuts beneficially affects serum lipids/lipoproteins; reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Nuts are low in SFA and high in PUFA and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). Macadamia nuts are a rich source of MUFA. A randomized; crossover; controlled feeding study (5-wk diet periods) […]
Effect of raisin consumption on oxidative stress and inflammation in obesity
Aim: Oxidative stress can initiate increased inflammation that elevates risk for cardiovascular disease. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of daily consumption of raisins on markers of oxidative stress; inflammation and endothelial activation in response to an acute high-fat meal in overweight individuals. Methods: Seventeen overweight men and women consumed 90 […]
Adherence to a DASH-Style Diet and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease and Stroke in Women
BACKGROUND: The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet has been shown to lower blood pressure; but little is known about its long-term effect on cardiovascular end points. Our objective was to assess the association between a DASH-style diet adherence score and risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke in women. METHODS: In this […]
Almonds reduce biomarkers of lipid peroxidation in older hyperlipidemic subjects
Nut consumption has been associated with reduced coronary heart disease (CHD) risk. In addition to cholesterol-lowering properties; almonds have been shown to lower oxidized LDL concentrations. However; little is known regarding their effects on other markers of oxidative stress. The dose-response effects of whole almonds; taken as snacks; were compared with low-saturated fat (