Could Decrease Inflammation
Because of their high quantities of good fats, hazelnuts have been associated with lower inflammatory indicators. One study investigated how eating hazelnuts affected inflammatory markers, such as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, in 21 people with high cholesterol levels. After four weeks of eating hazelnuts for 18-20% of their total calorie consumption, the subjects showed significant reductions in inflammation. Furthermore, eating 60 grams of hazelnuts per day for 12 weeks helped lower inflammatory markers in people who were overweight or obese.
Another study looked at how hazelnuts affected inflammation. It was discovered that eating 40 grams of hazelnuts could lower the inflammatory response in healthy individuals. Similarly, 50 persons with metabolic syndrome saw a reduction in inflammation after taking 30 grams of a combination of raw nuts — 15 grams walnuts, 7.5 grams almonds, and 7.5 grams hazelnuts — for 12 weeks, compared to a control group. Most research, however, finds that consuming hazelnuts alone is insufficient. It is also necessary to maintain a calorie-controlled diet in order to minimize inflammation.