Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that can increase the risk of diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.
Metabolic syndrome includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, low levels of HDL cholesterol, high triglycerides, and excess belly fat.
The CDCTrusted Source estimate that around 1 in 3 adults in the United States has metabolic syndrome, and rates are increasing around the world.
Some research suggests that MUFAs, such as those present in macadamia nuts, may help lower the risk of metabolic syndrome or reduce its effects in people who already have it.
A research review from 2016 shows that eating a diet high in MUFAs can reduce metabolic risk factors in people with type 2 diabetes.
HbA1c is an important measurement for people with diabetes. It is a person’s average blood sugar level over the past 2–3 months. A study on rats with diabetes found that a diet high in MUFAs plus exercise was more effective at lowering HbA1c than either eating the fats or exercising alone.
Another studyTrusted Source shows that tree nuts such as macadamia nuts help improve glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes. However, more high-quality, long-term studies are needed to confirm the results.