Macadamia Nutrition

Like most nuts, macadamia nuts are high in heart-healthy unsaturated fats. Of the 25.4 g of fat in one ¼ cup serving of raw macadamia nuts, 20.3 g are polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fat. Macadamia nuts are also high in manganese, copper and thiamin. Dietary reference intake, or DRI, percentages are for adults under age 50. Values may differ for children and older adults.

Calories and Fat

A ¼ cup serving of macadamia nuts contains 241 calories, most of which come fat. One serving contains 25.4 g of fat. As is the case with most nuts, the majority of the fat in macadamia nuts is unsaturated fat. One ¼ cup of macadamia nuts contains only 4 g of saturated fat and no cholesterol. Macadamia nuts also contain plant sterols, which can help to lower cholesterol by blocking its absorption into the intestine.

Protein

One serving of macadamia nuts contains 2.7 g of protein, which is composed of 18 different amino acids. Like many nuts, macadamia nuts are high in the amino acid arginine, which may increase the flexibility of artery walls, making them open to blood flow.

Carbohydrates

One serving of macadamia nuts contains 4.6 g of carbohydrates, which provide only 18.4 of the 241 calories per serving. One serving of macadamia nuts contains 1.5 g of sugar and 2.9 g of fiber. This is just over 10 percent of the DRI for fiber.

Minerals

Macadamia nuts are an excellent source of the essential mineral manganese. One serving supplies 77 percent of the DRI for manganese for women and 60 percent for men. Manganese supports the nervous system, assists with protein metabolism and helps to control blood sugar levels. One ¼ cup of macadamia nuts also provides 28 percent of the DRI for copper. Additionally, one cup provides 14 percent of the DRI for magnesium for women and 10 percent for men.

Water-Soluble Vitamins

One serving of macadamia nuts provides 33 percent of the DRI for thiamin, also known as vitamin B-1. Thiamin is important for healthy digestion, proper circulation and carbohydrate metabolism. Macadamia nuts are not a significant source of any other water-soluble vitamins, as one cup provides less than 1 percent of all other B vitamins and vitamin C.