We all know that Macadamias are high in fats and they are good for us. But what is good about the fats in Macadamias?
First we need to get clear about the fatty basics...
Fats are divided into unsaturated and saturated fats. Saturated fats have zero double bonds in their chemical composition and are generally solid at room temperature. Unsaturated fats have one (monounsaturated) or more (polyunsaturated) double bonds in their molecular structure and are generally liquid at room temperature.
All nuts are high in polyunsaturated fats (especially omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are both particularly beneficial to our health). Macadamias are unusual in that 78% of their considerable fat content is monounsaturated.
Monounsaturated fats have been linked to reducing LDL cholesterol levels and lowering triglycerides - both of which are risk factors for coronary heart disease. There are even scientific studies that found that people who ate macadamias every day had lower cholesterol levels and improved heart health.(1)
Other nuts contain monounsaturated fats as well - hazelnuts, pecans and almonds aren't too far behind. As well as having a lower proportion of monounsaturated fats, their total fat content is also lower.