The Best Heart-Healthy Nuts

Heart-Healthy Nuts

Cashews have less total fat than all common nuts, and the majority of the fat (75%) is oleic acid. Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fat (the same type found in olive oil) that can lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that a handful (about ¼ cup) of nuts a day is the optimal amount to improve heart health. A few tablespoons of nut butter would be an equally beneficial snack — try spreading some over crackers, apple slices, or celery sticks.