Almond is one of the most popular tree nuts in the world. They are not only crunchy and delicious but also have great health benefits. Here is why;
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- Almonds have incredible massive amounts of nutrients. A small handful of almonds ( about 28 g) contains 3.5 grams of fiber, 6 grams of protein, 14 grams of fat, 9 of which are monounsaturated, 37 % of recommended daily allowance of vitamin E, 32 % of recommended daily allowance of Manganese, 20 % of recommended daily allowance of Magnesium, decent amount of copper, vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and phosphorus.
- Almonds are loaded with antioxidants. Almonds are wonderful source of antioxidants. Antioxidants can help protect against oxidative stress, which can damage molecules in cells and contribute to aging and diseases like cancer. Antioxidants in almonds are largely concentrated in the brown layer of the skin.
3. Almonds can lower the risk of heart diseases, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. Almonds are high in vitamin E, which protects your cell membranes from damage . Several studies have linked higher intake of vitamin E with lower rates of heart diseases, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease.
4. Almonds can assist with blood sugar control. Almonds are low in carbs, but high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which make them a perfect choice for diabetics. Some studies have shown that correcting the magnesium deficiency significantly lowers blood sugar levels and improves the function of insulin. Almonds are high in magnesium and consumption of almonds may be beneficial for prevention of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.
5. Almonds can help lower blood pressure levels. A deficiency of magnesium is strongly linked to blood pressure levels, and the magnesium in almonds may help lower blood pressure levels.
6. Almonds can lower cholesterol levels. Some studies have shown that eating almonds can lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while maintaining the HDL (good) cholesterol levels. Also almonds can protect LDL (bad) cholesterol from oxidation, which is a crucial step in the heart disease process.
7. Almonds are effective for weight loss. About 10 – 15 % of the calories in nuts are not absorbed, and there is some evidence that eating nuts can boost metabolism slightly. Also almonds are low in carbs, but high in protein and fiber, which increase satiety and help people feel more full so that they end up eating less.
Almonds are delicious by themselves but they taste even better with chocolates, caramel, cookies, or cheese. Slightly salted almonds also go well with wine and beer. What is your favorite way to eat almonds?