The macadamia nut, native to Australia, is prized for its rich buttery flavor and creamy texture. The dominant nutrient in macadamia nuts is fat, however, they also have some protein, dietary fiber, minerals and vitamins. Because of the high fat content, macadamia nuts should be refrigerated to prevent rancidity. According to the USDA National Nutrient Database, which lists all nutrient values for macadamia nuts, 1/4 cup of dry roasted macadamia nuts has 237 calories.
Fats
Though macadamia nuts are very high in fat, the major type of fat is monounsatured, which the American Heart Association recognizes as beneficial to heart health. One quarter cup of macadamia nuts has 25.11 g of total fat, 19.6 g of monounsaturated fat, 0.5 g of polyunsaturated fat and 3.5 g of saturated fat.
Protein
The Institute of Medicine recommends men consume 56 g of protein daily and women consume 46 g. One quarter cup of macadamia nuts provides 2.57 g of protein. Your body requires protein to support growth and development of tissues.
Dietary Fiber
Dietary fiber promotes digestive health, lowers cholesterol and helps control blood glucose and insulin concentrations in blood. There are 2.6 g of fiber in 1/4 cup of macadamia nuts. The Institute of Medicine recommends 25 g of fiber daily for women and 38 g for men.
Vitamins
Macadamia nuts are a good source of thiamine, a B vitamin necessary for carbohydrate and protein metabolism. The USDA National Nutrient Database shows that 1/4 cup of macadamia nuts contains 0.234 mg of thiamine. The Institute of Medicine recommends 1.2 mg of thiamine daily for men and 1.1 mg for women. Other vitamins found in small amounts in macadamia nuts include niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid and vitamin B6.
Minerals
Macadamia nuts are a rich source of manganese, a mineral necessary for energy metabolism and involved in bone formation. One quarter cup of macadamia nuts provides 1 mg of manganese. The amount of manganese recommended by the Institute of Medicine is 1.8 mg daily for women and 2.3 mg for men.
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