[Health India]: Washington: According to a study conducted by Penn State University walnuts, walnut oil and flaxseed oil not only lower bad cholesterol but also decrease the possibilities of blood vessel inflammation in patients susceptible to cardiovascular diseases.

While previous studies have shown that walnut supplementation favorably affects cholesterol and other lipids that are signs of cardiovascular risk, this new study is the first to demonstrate that a diet high in walnuts decreases C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation strongly associated with heart disease.

"In a heart healthy diet, you need different unsaturated fatty acids that come from a variety of vegetable sources. Walnuts are a good source of two essential unsaturated fatty acids, alpha- linolenic acid and linoleic acid," Dr. Penny Kris-Etherton, professor of nutrition who led the study was quoted as saying.

"They are a source of dietary fiber and a small amount of plant protein and other important vitamins and minerals. This research shows that walnuts, with their unique nutrient profile, can play a role in reducing cardiovascular risk factors as part of eating plans that also control saturated fat, trans fat, dietary cholesterol and calories," Etherton added. (ANI)