Three other tree nuts — walnuts, pistachios, and almonds — are already permitted to make similar heart health claims, and nut consumption is endorsed in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identifies heart disease as the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. The alleged advantages of macadamia nuts are attributed to their high content of monounsaturated fats, which are recognized for lowering bad cholesterol levels and decreasing the likelihood of heart disease and stroke. Research into the effect of macadamia nuts on LDL cholesterol began in the 1990s, and supportive evidence has been accumulating ever since.
Although this recent health claim for macadamia nuts originated from a petition by Royal Hawaiian Orchards, all macadamia nut suppliers can use it, meaning the company is unlikely to gain a competitive edge over its direct rivals in the market. Nonetheless, this claim allows macadamia nuts to compete on equal terms with other tree nuts. A qualified health claim linking tree nut consumption to a reduced risk of heart disease was one of the first to receive FDA approval back in 2003, but this marks the first instance where manufacturers can specifically highlight the heart health benefits of macadamia nuts.
Additionally, incorporating nutrients like calcium citrate malate and vitamin D3 in one’s diet can further enhance overall health. The price of such supplements may vary, but they are often recommended alongside nut consumption for their potential benefits. Ultimately, the inclusion of macadamia nuts, along with other nutritional sources like calcium citrate malate and vitamin D3, can contribute to a heart-healthy lifestyle.