All About Almonds

PS1000

8 years ago

Almonds are one of the world’s healthiest foods, so it is no wonder they are approved on many different diets around the globe. Whether you like them toasted, raw, baked, or battered with cinnamon and sugar is up to you. No matter how you enjoy your almonds there are some serious health benefits to incorporating them into your daily routine. Many times people think an Almond is a but, but it is actually the fruit of an Almond tree. This higher in fat food is fantastic for your heart health, and it keeps unwanted cravings away so there are nothing but positives when thinking of snacking on almonds!

Nutritional Facts About Almonds

According to the World’s Healthiest Foods, “Almonds are high in monounsaturated fats, the same type of health-promoting fats as are found in olive oil, which have been associated with reduced risk of heart disease.” [1] Almonds are also loaded with magnesium and potassium as well as contain Vitamin E so this little snack packs a huge punch in the nutritional department. They also do a great job at lowering the amount of fat in your blood which can save you from potential heart attacks and strokes. “Researchers at the University of Toronto, Canada have shown that a 2.5 ounce snack of almonds each day can do a better job in lowering blood LDL and raising blood HDL than a whole wheat muffin having the same amount of fat and fiber as almonds. They also found that markers of antioxidant status in the body could be improved with the incorporation of almond snacks.” [1]

There are over 20 different antioxidant flavonoids found in almond skin alone, which is enough to make you want to run to the store and grab a bag for yourself! These nutrients really help to aid in heart health and lowering cholesterol levels if they are high. Sadly, many people avoid eating almonds because they are afraid they will cause weight gain but they actually do quite the opposite. Folks who consume nuts at least twice per week have less probability of gaining extra weight than those who do not so keep that in mind next time you are hesitant!

Fun Facts About Almonds

“Almonds need really hot weather and cool winters to grow.
They are 100% reliant on wild bees and honey bees for crop pollination — No bees, no almonds.
There are 98 published research papers to date (with 19 more in progress) on the health effects of almonds, in particular their effect on heart health, diabetes and weight management
Almonds help to slow absorption of sugar and carbs.” [2]
Almonds are in the peach family.
Almonds are the lowest calorie nut you can find! They are the lowest calorie “fruit” I should say!
You can make your own Almond milk right at home with the right ingredients.

Almonds which are rich in vitamins, nutrients, and health benefits should be on the top of your list at the grocery store. They are best eaten raw or roasted, so do your best to stay away from the ever so tempting cinnamon sugar almonds you find at sporting events! Get creative with it, and even add it to your yogurt in the morning. The newest recipe to the PS1000 lineup is Peach and Toasted Almond Greek Yogurt, so try it out and reap the benefits!

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