Cashews were omitted by the FDA from the qualified health claim that nuts may lower heart disease risk because they contain about 20% saturated fat. But the saturated fat in cashews is mostly stearic acid, which is thought to have a neutral effect on blood cholesterol. Some studies have found the consumption of cashews to lower bad cholesterol.u003cbr/u003eIn addition, they are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and protein. They are a healthy addition to this vegan cheese sauce, and give the sauce its creamy texture.