Studies also show it does not increase LDL “bad” cholesterol levels.

The cashew nut can shed its bad reputation as it has been found to contain fewer calories than previously thought. According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) researchers from a human-intervention trial which looked at the available energy (calorie) content in cashew nuts, the results showed that the calorie content is 16 percent lower than that which is typically stated in current food labels and databases in the US. Current reported energy value of cashews is 163 kcal per serving, however the researchers found that the metabolisable energy content of a 28g (1oz) serving of cashews is 137 kcal.

Another study that was published in “The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition” concluded that 42g per day of cashews does not increase LDL “bad” cholesterol levels. It also found that adding 42g of cashews every day to a typical Western diet may help reduce the enzyme PCSK9. Lower PCSK9 concentrations are associated with the removal of LDL “bad” cholesterol from the blood.

So, go ahead, eat cashews if you must but keep in mind to do it in moderation.

 

---