Almonds contain vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber, and so they may offer a number of health benefits. Just a handful of almonds (approximately 1 ounce) contains one-eighth of a person’s daily protein needs.
Almonds can be taken raw or toasted as a snack or add them to sweet or savory dishes. They are also available sliced, flaked, slivered, as flour, oil, butter, or almond milk.
BENEFITS OF ALMONDS
1) Almond and Cholesterol: Almonds are high in fat, but it is unsaturated fat. This type of fat does not increase the risk of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol. In moderation, the American Heart AssociationTrusted (AHA) note that unsaturated fats may improve a person’s blood cholesterol status. In addition, almonds contain no cholesterol. Consuming almonds may increase vitamin E levels in the plasma and red blood cells which lower overall cholesterol levels. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help stop the oxidization process that causes cholesterol to clog the arteries. Nutrients in almonds may help boost or maintain levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol. It is advised that 45 grams (g) of almonds should be consumed per day to protect heart health.
2) Almonds and cancer risk:
It is a protective factor for the development of breast cancer.
3) Almonds and heart disease:
It helps to improve lipid, or fat, levels in the blood. This can benefit heart health. Almonds significantly increased the levels of antioxidants in the bloodstream, reduced blood pressure, and improved blood flow.
4) Almond and vitamin E:
Vitamin E and other antioxidants help prevent oxidative damage in the body. This damage can occur when too many free radicals accumulate. Free radicals result from natural bodily processes and environmental stresses. The body can eliminate many of them, but dietary antioxidants help remove them, too. High levels of free radicals can cause oxidative stress, resulting in damage to cells. This can lead to various diseases and health problems. Almonds are high in antioxidants that can protect your cells from oxidative damage, a major contributor to aging and disease.
5) Almond and blood sugar:
Almonds are extremely high in magnesium, a mineral that many people don’t get enough of. High magnesium intake may offer major improvements for metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.
6) Almonds help manage weight: It is low in carbohydrates but high in protein, healthful fats, and fiber. Feeling full can help people lose weight, as they will be less tempted to seek more snacks.
7) Almonds boost bone health: Almonds contain calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper, vitamin K, protein, and zinc, all of which contribute to bone health.
In other words, a handful of almonds a day can keep the doctor away! ?
Written by: Samuel Sobiye
