Awesome Almonds!

Eaten just plain or added as a component in various dishes, the uses of almonds form a large spectrum. Be it plain, salted, roasted or flaked, Almonds easily top the list in nutritional quality among the nuts. Even more beneficial is the almond oil derived from it which can be made into almond butter or almond milk.

 Many people think of the term “fat” as the demon of the food. But the fact is that fats are not only essential for your body but also beneficial for overall well being. Mind you, choose the right type of fats.  100 g of almonds contain around 49g of fat, which goes up to 75% of your Daily Value. But a handful of these are loaded with monounsaturated fatty acids, which will help you decrease your LDL levels (bad cholesterol) and increase your HDL levels (good cholesterol).

Being an excellent source of Vitamin E, it provides 1.25% of daily value i.e., approximately 25mg per 100g of almonds. Vitamin E being an effective antioxidant reduces the risk of heart diseases and boosts the body’s immunity. Also if you have almond oil handy, say good bye to all your beauty care products.

Almonds are a good source of dietary fibre which helps to prevent constipation and despite being eaten in small amounts it gives the feeling of satiety. Therefore, it is an essential part of a weight loss diet.

Wonderfully rich in vitamins and minerals, they are also packed with health promoting phytochemicals. It contains folic acid which is necessary during pregnancy.

The digestion of almonds helps to alkalize the blood and as a result maintains its alkalinity and prevents leaching of calcium from the bones which happens due to intake of acidic foods.

Almonds also contain nutrients that boost brain activity and are known to reduce the risk of Alzheimer.

A handful of almonds fulfill most of the daily requirements of proteins, vitamins, minerals and essential fats. 

Add the crunch to your diet!

Note:  Always remember the fistful rule. Not more than a handful of almonds per day. More than recommended intake can cause overdose of Vitamin E, weight gain and excess fats. 

Post by Zohra Sada