Baru almond improves lipid profile in mildly hypercholesterolemic subjects: a randomized, controlled, crossover study

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Cardiovascular Health
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Nuts are known to reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk by improving lipid profiles and oxidation status.
• Baru almonds (Dipteryx alata Vog.), native to the Brazilian Savannah, are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), fiber, vitamin E, and zinc.
• No prior studies have investigated the health effects of baru almond consumption in humans.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of baru almond supplementation on lipid profiles.
• To assess the effect of baru almonds on oxidation markers in mildly hypercholesterolemic subjects.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, crossover, placebo-controlled study was conducted with 20 mildly hypercholesterolemic participants.
• Participants received either 20 g/day of baru almonds or a placebo for two 6-week periods, separated by a 4-week washout.
• Lipid profiles and oxidation biomarkers were measured.

Main Results:

• Baru almond supplementation significantly reduced total cholesterol (TC) by 8.1%, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) by 9.4%, and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-c) by 8.1% compared to placebo.
• No significant changes were observed in the evaluated oxidation biomarkers.
• The study was registered with the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (ReBEC), number RBR-4zdy9p.

Conclusions:

• Dietary supplementation with baru almonds positively impacts serum lipid parameters in mildly hypercholesterolemic individuals.
• Baru almonds may be a beneficial dietary component for reducing cardiovascular disease risk.