Only the evergreen trees on the eastern slopes of the Great Divide Range in Australia know the true origin of the macadamia nut. Early aboriginal people inhabiting the area place a close second in their reliance on the nut for food during fall and winter seasons. Since this time, the rich fatty acids found in the oil of macadamia nuts have inspired both the research of scientists and dishes of culinary artists.
Cardiovascular Support
Researchers at Pennsylvania State University have found the rich source of monounsaturated fatty acids in macadamia nuts to reduce cardiovascular disease risk factors. Results of the five-week macadamia nut diet reduced cholesterol levels in comparison to five weeks of an average American diet, according to researchers. Dr. Amy E. Griel, nutrition scientist for The Hershey Company, believes this is because of the high quantity of monounsaturated fatty acids in macadamia nuts that are comparable to those found in olive oil.
Bone and Muscle Health
Macadamia nut oil aids in the overall strength of the body's bones, tissues and cells through the addition of magnesium. While approximately 50 percent of magnesium is found in the body's bones, magnesium also aids in nerve and muscle functions and stabilizing heart rhythm. Consequently, the magnesium found in macadamia nuts helps to guard against osteoporosis and immune and nervous system disorders, according to research conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the University of California. Added benefits of calcium and phosphorus accentuate magnesium's role in bone and muscle health.
Increased Nutrient Absorption
Research conducted at the LSU AgCenter has found the monounsaturated fatty acids in macadamia nut oil to increase the absorption rate of nutrients and fat-soluble vitamins. According to the University of Michigan, this enhances the nut's role in helping to prevent heart disease and cancer, musculoskeletal pain and inflammatory conditions. Macadamia nut oil's knack of increasing nutrient absorption also assists its many B vitamins in fulfilling their jobs of producing and releasing energy through protein metabolism.
References
- Australian Macadamia Society: Australian Macadamia: A Healthy Nut
- U.S. National Library of Medicine: A Macadamia Nut-Rich Diet Reduces Total and LDL Cholesterol in Mildly Hypercholesterolemic Men and Women
- Science Daily: Macadamia Nuts Can Be Included in Heart Healthy Diet
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Magnesium
- United States Department of Agriculture: Nutritional Quality of Fruits, Nuts and Vegetables and their Importance in Human Health
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