There's something about macadamia nuts that makes them a good choice for people with high cholesterol. Studies in 2003 and 2008 showed that, despite macadamia nuts' relatively high fat content, moderate servings helped to lower participants' low-density cholesterol, or the "bad" LDL cholesterol. Researchers aren't sure what exactly in these nuts gives them cholesterol-lowering power, but as part of a healthy diet and exercise program, they may be able to help you get your cholesterol levels under control.
Step 1
Add small servings of macadamia nuts into your everyday diet. Try stirring them into oatmeal or granola at breakfast, adding them to a salad at lunch or dinner, or eating a small handful as a snack once a day. Don't overdo it; macadamia nuts have a lot of fat and calories, so they should be used sparingly. Study participants only ate about 1.5 oz. of macadamia nuts per day to get the cholesterol-lowering effects.
Step 2
Incorporate other healthy practices into your lifestyle. Start an exercise routine if you haven't already--try swimming, biking, power-walking or any other activity you enjoy and can stick to. Make additional healthy diet choices, such as cutting back on fried foods, switching from full-fat to low-fat dairy products and eating more fresh fruits and vegetables.
Step 3
Visit your doctor to have your cholesterol retested. A healthier lifestyle, along with eating moderate amounts of macadamia nuts, should help lower your level of bad cholesterol. If not, your doctor can recommend the best course of action such as prescribing a cholesterol-lowering medication.
