Why Almonds are good for you?

October 31, 2015

Fortunately, the delicately flavored and versatile almond is available throughout the year to make a healthy and tasty addition to both sweet and savory dishes. The health benefits of almonds are extensive, and they are frequently used as a healthy solution for relief from constipation, respiratory disorders, coughs, heart disorders, anemia, impotency, and diabetes. It also helps in maintenance of healthy hair, skin care (psoriasis), and dental care.

Did you know?

Almonds are actually stone fruits related to cherries, plums and peaches.
2.51 million tons of almonds were produced in 2010 according to Food and Agriculture Organization.
Most of the B-complex vitamins such as riboflavin, thiamin, pantothenic acid and B-6 are obtained from these nuts.
United States is the largest producer of almonds. Unfortunately, it also demands that almonds are pasteurized or irradiated.
The Killing of California Almonds
Old Testament of the Bible says that almonds and dates are the oldest cultivated foods.
One pint of almond oil is obtained from 1000 pounds of almonds!
From ancient Egypt to modern times, almonds have always been a popular ingredient in lotions and potions.

A 1 ounce (28 grams, or small handful) serving of almonds contains,

Fiber: 3.5 grams.

Protein: 6 grams.

Fat: 14 grams (9 of which are monounsaturated).

Vitamin E: 37% of the RDA.

Manganese: 32% of the RDA.

Magnesium: 20% of the RDA.

They also contain a decent amount of copper, vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and phosphorus. This is all from a small handful, which supplies only 161 calories and 2.5 grams of digestible carbohydrates.

Regulation of cholesterol

Regular consumption of almonds helps to increase the level of high density lipoproteins (HDL) and they reduce the level of low density lipoproteins (LDL). This balance is vital to a healthy cholesterol level, and a reduction of LDL (bad cholesterol) is always a good thing.

Skin care

The benefits of almonds in regards to skin health are well known, and almond oil massages are often recommended for newborn babies. Almond milk is also added to some soaps, because of almonds well-established reputation of improving the complexion of skin.

Heart Health

According to the FDA, eating 1.5 ounces a day of most nuts, like almonds, may reduce the risk of heart disease. Many of the nutrients in almonds help contribute to increased heart health. For one, almonds are rich in magnesium, which is critical in preventing heart attacks and hypertension.

Several clinical studies have also shown almonds can be effective in reducing bad cholesterol and preserving healthy cholesterol, which plays a major role in heart health.

Boosts energy

The presence of manganese, copper and Riboflavin in almonds helps in energy production and metabolic rate. If you are on the go, a handful of almonds can get you through the day without filling you up with calories or fat.

Bone Health

Almonds are a fantastic source of many vitamins and minerals, and phosphorous is definitely counted among them! Phosphorous can have a considerable impact on the strength and durability of bones and teeth, while also preventing the onset of age-related conditions like osteoporosis.

Good for pregnancy

Almonds contain folic acid, which helps reduce the incidence of birth defects in newborn babies. It also stimulates healthy cell growth and tissue formation. Neural tube defects are conditions where the neural tube is either underdeveloped or is partially missing in the fetus.

Doctors regularly prescribe folic acid supplements to pregnant women to ensure proper development of the tube, and almonds have enough folic acid to keep mothers and their babies healthy.

Almonds for weight loss

Here are a few interesting ways on how to eat almonds for weight loss,

Keep a packet of roasted almonds in your office or college bag, and have them whenever you feel hungry. Eat a handful of them; it is the best snack for weight loss.
Add almonds to your breakfast, which will keep you full till lunch time. Sprinkle chopped almonds on your oats or cereal.
Make almond raita and have it during lunch time. Mix chopped almonds with yoghurt and sprinkle your favorite spices. Almond raita is full of protein and good bacteria, which keeps your digestive system healthy and also helps in weight loss.
You can add chopped almonds in your pasta or salad. They will make it heavy, so that you can eat less and still satisfy your hunger.
Add almonds in your favorite ice cream or chocolate and enjoy the twist in taste.
Including almonds in your daily diet along with proper exercising makes weight loss a possible dream.