Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is essential for the production of cell membranes, hormones, and vitamin D. It is also important for the digestion of fats.

However, high levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Eating a diet that is rich in nuts can be an effective way to lower cholesterol levels.

1. Almonds

Almonds are a great source of monounsaturated fats, which have been shown to increase levels of HDL cholesterol (the good kind) while reducing levels of LDL cholesterol (the bad kind).

In a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, researchers found that people who ate almonds as part of a heart-healthy diet experienced significant reductions in both total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels.

2. Walnuts

Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve heart health. They are also a good source of fiber, protein, and antioxidants.

In a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers found that eating walnuts as part of a heart-healthy diet led to significant reductions in LDL cholesterol levels.

3. Pistachios

Pistachios are a good source of monounsaturated fats, fiber, and protein. They are also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against heart disease.

In a study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, researchers found that eating pistachios as part of a heart-healthy diet led to significant reductions in LDL cholesterol levels.

4. Cashews

Cashews are a good source of monounsaturated fats, protein, and antioxidants. They are also rich in magnesium, which has been shown to help lower blood pressure.

In a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, researchers found that eating cashews as part of a heart-healthy diet led to significant reductions in LDL cholesterol levels.

5. Peanuts

Peanuts are a good source of monounsaturated fats, protein, and fiber. They are also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against heart disease.

In a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, researchers found that people who ate peanuts as part of a heart-healthy diet experienced significant reductions in both total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels.

6. Brazil nuts

Brazil nuts are a good source of selenium, which has been shown to improve heart health. They are also a good source of monounsaturated fats, protein, and fiber.

In a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, researchers found that eating Brazil nuts as part of a heart-healthy diet led to significant reductions in LDL cholesterol levels.

7. Macadamia nuts

Macadamia nuts are a good source of monounsaturated fats and fiber. They are also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against heart disease.

In a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, researchers found that eating macadamia nuts as part of a heart-healthy diet led to significant reductions in both total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels.

8. Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts are a good source of monounsaturated fats, fiber, and antioxidants. They are also rich in vitamin E, which has been shown to improve heart health.

In a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers found that eating hazelnuts as part of a heart-healthy diet led to significant reductions in LDL cholesterol levels.

9. Pecans

Pecans are a good source of monounsaturated fats, fiber, and antioxidants. They are also rich in magnesium, which has been shown to help lower blood pressure.

In a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, researchers found that eating pecans as part of a heart-healthy diet led to significant reductions in both total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels.

10. Pine nuts

Pine nuts are a good source of monounsaturated fats, protein, and fiber. They are also rich in vitamin E, which has been shown to improve heart health.

In a study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, researchers found that eating pine nuts as part of a heart-healthy diet led to significant reductions in LDL cholesterol levels.