Monday, April 22, 2013

Almond benefits





Almonds are the most nutritious nuts because it is high in vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, zinc, calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, fiber, protein and other essential fatty acids - omega-3 and omega-6. It also contains selenium, copper and niacin. If you haven’t added tasty nutty almond to your diet, it’s about time you should. There are countless benefits that these nuts provide. Besides their great taste and nutty texture, almonds also hold important medicinal value. From potions to lotions, almond has always been a key ingredient.
Lucky for you they are available all year round. Though the fruit originated from the Middle East and are still found commonly in Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Jordan, Syria, Iran and Israel but currently United States is the largest producer of the almonds, followed by Spain and Italy. Statistics by Food and Agriculture Organization show that 2.51 million tons of almonds were produced in the year 2010.
Almonds are stone fruits that belong to the family of plums, cherries and peaches. The almond tree bears drupe and fragrant pink and white flowers. The nut that we call almond is actually a seed from the almond fruit.
Nutrition value of almond here
·         Almond is considered to be the nut with the highest nutritional value as compared to the other nuts.
·         Almonds are protein enriched and are composed of 13% proteins
·         They are the best source of Vitamin E, an ounce of almonds contain enough vitamin E to meet 1/3rd of your daily requirement
·         An ounce of almond, that makes 23 almonds are enriched with minerals like copper, magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron and phosphorus and also Vitamin B, which are enough to keep you going through the day
·         An ounce of almond and an ounce of broccoli give you same amount of antioxidants
·         You will find calcium equal to ¼ cup of milk in 20- 25 almond

 These are the health benefits you can get from almonds:
1.       Good for Heart Health
According to a research conducted by Loma Linda School of Public Health people who consume almonds 5 times a week showed a reduction in heart attack risk up to 50%. Almonds are enriched with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats such as palmetoelic and oleic acids. A quarter cup contains almost 18grams of total fat out of which 11grams are the heart healthy monounsaturated ones. Vitamin E present in almonds acts as an antioxidant and improves heart health. Magnesium contents reduce the risk of heart attacks.
2.       Reduces cholesterol
Not only the almonds are free of cholesterol they also have a favorable impact on the cholesterol levels in the blood. Research conducted by Dr. Gene Spiller, who is the Director of the Health Research and Studies Center, Inc, proves that almonds help to reduce the bad cholesterol. A regular consumption of these nuts also increases HDL levels.
3.       Rich in flavonoids
The skin of the almonds contains almost 20 flavonoids that work with the vitamin E contents found in them. Both of these nutrients work in synergy and protect the artery walls from getting damaged. This has been proven by researchers at the Tufts University. The folic acid contents found in almonds help to reduce the homocystein levels that are responsible for building up fatty plaque in the arteries.
4.       Good for Brain and the nervous system
The nutrients present in almonds are very important for brain development. They are known to be helpful in inducing high intellectual levels, especially in the growing children. Soak seven almonds in water overnight and take them in morning after removing the skin. This is beneficial for a healthy brain. The L-carnitine and riboflavin contents of almond also work as brain activity boosters and also prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
5.       Prevents Cancer
It has been proven that almonds are effective in reducing the risk of colon cancer.
6.       Effective against diabetes
Almonds are effective for diabetic patients. They help to regulate the rise in insulin and sugar levels after meals.
7.       Best for weight loss
If you are on a diet for weight reduction, try to incorporate almonds to your diet. The monounsaturated fats contained in almonds gives a filling effect to the stomach and as a result you will save yourself from over-eating. It has been revealed by researches that obese people having a low caloric almond rich diet can shed a lot of pounds.
8.       People who are frequent nut eaters are 31% less likely to gain weight than those who do not eat nuts and are also thinner on average.
9.       Good for Pregnancy
Folic acid is essential for conception as well as for the healthy growth of the fetus. Pregnant women should take almonds during their pregnancy as the folic acid found in them helps in the reduction of birth defects in babies.
10.    Energy boosters
The presence of nutrients like manganese, riboflavin and copper are very helpful in boosting energy. Unsweetened almond milk is the best energy drink that you can choose to revitalize yourself.
11.    Prevents constipation
The dietary fibers present in almonds are a cure for constipation. A handful of almonds with plenty of water can be very beneficial for preventing constipation.
12.    Skin care
The rich contents of vitamin E make almonds highly beneficial for skin treatments. Almond milk in creams and soaps helps in maintaining the moisture of the skin and enhances its complexion.
13.    Good for Bones
Phosphorus and calcium are the two key contents found in almonds that help maintain the bone health. A massage of almond oil helps to maintain strong bones in babies.
14.    Good for alkalizing the body
People who do not have enough alkaline in their body are at a risk of poor immune system, weight gain, fatigue and osteoporosis. The protein contents present in the almonds are good for alkaline formation in the body.




Some Cons of Almonds
People with gall-bladder and kidney problems should avoid taking almonds. Almonds are also not suitable for babies under the age of 1.
 Almonds are hard to digest so it is better either to soak them in water or roast them before consumption. Almond oil can also be used for cooking as it is suitable for high cooking


 

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