Walnuts are `hearty`, indeed

Washington: Few tree nuts a day can help you keep heart disease at bay, according to a recent study.

The new study found that consuming tree nuts, such as walnuts, may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

One of the authors, Michael Falk, found that consuming tree nuts lowers total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and ApoB, the primary protein found in LDL cholesterol. These are key factors that are used to evaluate a person's risk of cardiovascular disease. Walnuts were investigated in 21 of the 61 trials, more than any other nut reviewed in this study.

Falk added that the tree nuts contain important nutrients like unsaturated fats, protein, vitamins and minerals. Walnuts are the only nut that provide a significant amount (2.5 grams per one ounce serving) of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), the plant-based form of omega-3s.

Researchers also found that consuming at least two servings (two ounces) per day of tree nuts, such as walnuts, has stronger effects on total cholesterol and LDL. Additionally, results showed that tree nut consumption may be particularly important for lowering the risk of heart disease in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

The study is published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.