Weight and Metabolic Effects of an Almond Enriched Hypocaloric, Low Fat Diet on Overweight and Obese Persons

Inclusion Criteria: * Body mass index (BMI) \> 27 but \<40 * 18-75 years of age * Men and non-pregnant or lactating women * Subjects must be willing to comply with all study-related procedures Exclusion Criteria: * Uncontrolled hypertension * Diabetes or use of anti-hyperglycemic medication * Dyslipidemia requiring prescription drug therapy as defined by NCEP ATPIII guidelines at screening * Known allergy or sensitivity to nuts * Known atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease * History of congestive heart failure * History of a non-skin malignancy within the previous 5 years * Any major active rheumatologic, pulmonary, hepatic, renal, dermatologic disease or inflammatory condition * History of being HIV positive * History of alcohol or drug abuse * Weight-loss inducing medications or dietary supplements within 3 months prior to enrollment. * Weight loss \> 5 kg during the last 6 months * Participation in an investigational drug study within 6 weeks prior to screening * Serious or unstable medical or psychological conditions that, in the opinion of the investigator, would compromise the subject's safety or successful participation in the study