Almonds health benefits

The first glance of the nutrition facts label on a bag of almonds might have you turning away. What if I told you that you should turn right back around and look again? Well, you most definitely should. In fact, almonds are very nutritious, but it takes a good eye to decipher what all the nutrition literature means. However, once you are graciously informed of what almonds can do for you, you must play your part and eat them to appreciate all they have to offer. Among other things, almonds have been recognized as relieving minor problems of constipation to preventing and protecting against certain diseases and conditions.

Vitamins and Minerals
Almonds are wonderful sources of many essential vitamins and minerals; they are actually chock full of them. Vitamin E (a powerful antioxidant), vitamins from the B-complex, phosphorous, magnesium, potassium, selenium, copper, zinc, iron, and calcium are among these.

Other Nutrients Abundant in Almonds
In addition to the abundance of vitamins and minerals that almonds supply, they are good sources of other nutrients. Healthy fats are certainly a plus, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. They are also high in protein and fiber, which both, and especially together, leave a satisfying feeling of fullness.

Much Needed Nutrition
It is unbelievable that one tiny handful of a tiny little thing can provide so many health benefits. Take a look and see for yourself all that almonds can do!

  • Recommended for diabetics. The combination of a high protein, high fiber, and no carbohydrate profile is a perfect recipe for a diabetic treat. Sugars are carbohydrates, and because almonds lack this “nutrient”, they don’t cause a spike in blood sugar levels. For this reason, they are a perfect snack for those with diabetes.
  • Brain function. Almonds have many nutrients that are essential for proper brain development and function. The omega-6 fatty acids that are in almonds are needed to do both of these things.
  • Cholesterol regulator. Eating almonds has proven to increase good (HDL) cholesterol levels and lower bad (LDL) cholesterol levels.
  • Good for the heart. Many of the “ingredients” in almonds are considered heart healthy. Potassium, monounsaturated fats, vitamin E (which acts as an antioxidant, reducing the risk of heart disease), and magnesium all contribute.
  • Good during pregnancy. Almonds contain folic acid, which has been proven to prevent neural birth defects in infants in the womb.
  • Constipation-avoider and digestion-regulator. The fiber in almonds allows for constipation to be prevented and helps keep digestion more regular. Another bonus is that a small serving of almonds contains the amount of needed fiber to do this.
  • Low in sodium = better for blood pressure. Almonds are a very low sodium snack, so they do not cause an increase in blood pressure.
  • Better looking skin. The omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E can help improve skin complexion.
  • Assist in weight loss. Some of the same nutrients listed above can help with weight loss. Protein and fiber keep you full longer, leading to less food that is consumed overall, and therefore potential weight loss by fewer calories.


Different Uses of Almonds

Almonds have a very versatile collection of uses. They can be eaten plain, added to cookies or baked goods, crushed on salads for a crunchy flavor, or blended for use as a crunchy breading for chicken tenders. You can buy them sliced, crushed, whole, or slivered. There is almond milk, almond oil, almond paste, and almond extract. A nice trick is to make your own trail mix with raisins, cereal, and, you guessed it, almonds! They can even be bought chocolate-covered to satisfy your sweet tooth and get all the nutritional benefits of the healthy nut.

Last updated on Nov 21st, 2010 and filed under Nutritional Information. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

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