Type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease, reflected in the presence of abnormal lipid profiles. Increasing the intake of polyunsaturated fat at the same time as reducing saturated fat can alleviate these risk factors. Including walnuts in a 'whole of diet' approach to managing fat consumption can help to ensure that the desired fatty acid profile is achieved. This comes via a food matrix that also delivers anti-oxidants, fibre and protein that may provide additional nutritional benefits. Thus there is good reason to include walnuts in dietary advice for patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus.