A Controlled-Feeding Study to Assess the Effect of Cashews on Fasting Lipoprotein Levels

A Randomized, Controlled-Feeding, Crossover Study to Assess the Effect of Cashews on Fasting Lipoprotein Levels

This study will assess the nutritional effect of cashews on LDL-C concentrations and secondarily on other aspects of the fasting lipoprotein lipid profile in healthy men and women with moderately elevated cholesterol.

This trial will utilize a randomized, two-period crossover design to examine the effects of cashew consumption on LDL-C and other aspects of the fasting lipoprotein lipid profile in healthy, moderately hyper-cholesterolemic individuals consuming a typical "American diet." Two arms consisting of two 28-day controlled-feeding treatment periods will allow for an isocaloric comparison of a diet with or without cashews.

Inclusion Criteria:

• BMI of ≥18.00 and ≤32.00 kg/m^2
• Fasting LDL-C level ≥130 mg/dL and <200 mg/dL
• Fasting TG ≤350 mg/dL

Exclusion Criteria:

• CHD or CHD risk equivalent
• Pregnancy
• Use of lipid altering medications which cannot be stopped
• Certain liver, kidney, lung, or gastrointestinal conditions
• Poorly controlled hypertension
• Certain medications
• Allergy or sensitivity to nuts or other food/beverage or food/beverage component
• Active cancers treated within prior 2 years (except non-melanoma skin cancer)
• Significant weight loss or gain within prior 3 months