11/05/2010

Nuts could help lower cholesterol levels 

Eating nuts could help lower cholesterol, according to a new study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine.

The study pooled the data from 25 nut consumption trials conducted in seven countries and involving 583 women and men.

Researchers claim the results show eating more nuts could help to improve cholesterol levels.

Ellen Mason, senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation, said:

“Apart from salted peanuts at the pub, nuts in sugary cereals or the traditional Christmas selection, nuts have been largely lacking in our diets in the UK.

“What we eat is extremely important to our overall health, and adding nuts back into our diet in place of saturated fats could help to improve cholesterol levels for many people.

Lowering cholesterol is important as it reduces your risk of developing heart disease. However, too much salt isn't good either so go for unsalted nuts in small amounts.”

Read the full report in the Archives of Internal Medicine.