This nut reduces inflammation in the body — find out which one

Scientists from China have made a curious discovery: one of the key substances found in macadamia nuts is capable of protecting cells from damage and suppressing inflammatory processes. This substance turned out to be palmitoleic acid, which is the focus of the new scientific study.

As reported by TUT.AZ with reference to Food & Function (F&F), a team of specialists from Jiangnan University conducted a series of laboratory experiments to determine exactly how palmitoleic acid affects cellular mechanisms associated with chronic inflammation.

The results proved to be quite promising. During the experiments, the scientists established that this compound effectively reduces the level of oxidative stress — a condition in which an excess of reactive oxygen species accumulates in the body. These are precisely what damage cells and tissues, triggering a chain of inflammatory reactions.

In addition, the study revealed another important effect: palmitoleic acid protects lysosomes — intracellular structures that serve as "recyclers" of damaged elements. Under the influence of the substance, cells demonstrated significantly fewer signs of damage, and the intensity of inflammatory processes dropped noticeably.

The Chinese specialists also found that the compound affects signaling mechanisms that control cellular defense against stress. According to the authors of the study, this may explain the previously identified beneficial properties of macadamia, including its positive impact on metabolism and the reduction of the risk of developing a number of chronic diseases.

Foreign experts point out that the results obtained so far are based exclusively on laboratory tests and require further confirmation in clinical studies. Nevertheless, the work provides a significantly deeper understanding of the biological role of palmitoleic acid and its potential applications in medicine.

Scientists believe that in the future, this substance could form the basis for new methods of prevention and treatment of diseases associated with chronic inflammation. Among such conditions are rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes mellitus, and various cardiovascular disorders.