Nuts, such as walnuts and pistachios, are good for your heart. Macadamias, too! According to researchers, combined with a heart-healthy diet, a handful of macadamia nuts reduced total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride levels compared with the standard American diet.
This study was supported by The Hershey Co. with partial support from NIH. Hm, are we going to see health claims on the labels of Hershey’s Chocolate Covered Macadamias soon?

Here are two reasons why you should pistachios make a great snack:
1. Pistachios can lower your cholesterol levels and reduce your risks for heart disease:
Pistachio amounts of 1.5 ounces and 3 ounces — one to two handfuls — reduced risk for cardiovascular disease by significantly reducing LDL cholesterol levels and the higher dose significantly reduced lipoprotein ratios.
2. Pistachios reduce your body’s response to the stress, thus reducing your risks for hypertension.
So go ahead, shell a handful. Done in the long-term, you’ll be doing your heart some good!