Are macadamia nuts better than almonds for health?

Published: October 17, 2025
Updated: October 17, 2025

The choice between macadamia nuts and almonds depends on your health goals. Macadamia nuts contain more heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, while almonds provide more protein and fiber. Both types of nuts deliver essential nutrients but excel in different areas. This gives you a better outlook to make the right choice for you.

Fat Composition

  • Macadamias: 80% monounsaturated fats including rare palmitoleic acid
  • Almonds: 50% monounsaturated fats with higher polyunsaturated content
  • Both reduce bad LDL cholesterol effectively

Specialty Nutrients

  • Macadamias: Lower oxalates (12mg/100g) for kidney safety
  • Almonds: Higher vitamin E content for skin protection
  • Both contain valuable antioxidants and minerals
Health Impact Comparison (per 1oz serving)
Health GoalHeart HealthMacadamia Advantage
Superior LDL reduction from monounsaturated fats
Almond AdvantageGood reduction with balanced fat profile
Health GoalKidney SafetyMacadamia Advantage
90% lower oxalates than almonds
Almond Advantage
Higher oxalate content requires caution
Health GoalWeight ManagementMacadamia AdvantageBetter satiety from high-quality fatsAlmond Advantage
Higher protein and fiber enhance fullness
Health GoalSkin ProtectionMacadamia AdvantageGood squalene content for moistureAlmond Advantage
Higher vitamin E fights UV damage
Based on clinical nutrition studies

Due to their unique benefits for heart health priorities, macadamia nuts. They contain a high degree of monounsaturated fat, which helps lower LDL (bad cholesterol) levels, higher than in any other nuts. They also have a unique type of fat, palmitoleic acid, which aids in the metabolic process. While almonds are also good, you will have to eat larger quantities for the same benefits.

Almonds are more beneficial for weight management goals as their increased protein and fiber elicit deeper signals of satiety. You will feel fuller for longer periods after eating almonds compared to macadamias. This helps maintain a natural control of caloric intake throughout the day.

Consider kidney health when choosing between these nuts. Macadamias are very low in oxalates, making them a safer option for those prone to oxalate kidney stones. Almonds are higher in oxalates, so be mindful of portion size when consuming them. Both nuts contain magnesium, but macadamias pose less risk of kidney stone formation.

Twist both types of nuts to achieve maximum benefits. Use macadamias in your salads for a creamy effect, and use almond flour in your baking. Store them properly in an air-tight container. Combine them strategically so that you benefit from their complementary nutritional strengths.

Read the full article: 10 Health Benefits of Macadamia Nuts

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