Delicately flavored, undoubtedly the most versatile and one of the favorite nuts around the world – almonds health benefits are innumerable. Almonds are used liberally to enhance the taste of both savory and sweet dishes. Simultaneously, it is revered for being a power house of nutrients and epitome of wellness and health. Despite its high fat content, this seed of the almond tree has amazing benefits which have made them extremely popular even among dieters. Let us understand why are almonds good for you and why it must be included in your daily diet.
WHY ARE ALMONDS GOOD FOR YOU?
Almond Nutrition Facts And Benefits
Scientifically termed as prunus dulcis, almonds are basically the seeds of the fruit of the almond tree. Being a drupe nut i.e. having multiple layers or shells enclosing the single hard seed in its central core, almonds need to be extracted from there. Health experts tout on almonds for its high level of the healthy monounsaturated fatty acids and bioactive molecules like dietary fibers, Vitamin E, riboflavin, trace minerals like copper, magnesium, phosphorus, etc.
It also infuses within itself high quality proteins and high oxalates. Considered as the richest source of fiber after cereals; it is also revered for having a high fat content, but that of heart-healthy monounsaturated fat.
Almond Nutrition Facts Per Almond
Do you know that a single piece of almond gives you seven calories with five of it coming from the fats? About 73% of its calories come from fats, 14% from carbohydrates and 13% from proteins. Of its total fat content of 0.61g, it has a saturated fat content of 0.047g; polyunsaturated fat content of 0.147g and 0.386g of monounsaturated fats. Its protein contribution stands at 0.26g, dietary fiber at 0.1g, carbohydrates at 0.24g and potassium at an unbelievable 9mg.
Almonds Health Benefits
The high fat content of almonds is simply overlooked by all health experts and even dieters vouch for its amazing health benefits to the body. What’s more is that they have been scientifically proven. Wondering what they are? Let’s become updated.
For A Healthy Heart
Almonds are excellent for your heart. Their high doses of healthy monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFs) which are similar to that of olive oil and oodles of anti-oxidants like flavonoid, Vitamin E and magnesium specifically improve the overall health of heart arteries and reduce inflammation. They tend to ward off the damage and plaque buildup within the artery walls and takes care of numerous issues like obesity, bad cholesterol, blood pressure, etc. that leads to a heart attack. Studies have indicated people consuming nuts five times a week had their heart attack risk reduced by about 50%.
The high monounsaturated fat content of almonds is mostly oleic and palmitoleic acids. These are known to be super arsenals in lowering the LDL or ‘bad cholesterol’ in the blood and pump up its HDL or ‘good cholesterol’. Nothing like almond to improve your lipid profile!
For Gluten Free Lovers
Those of you who have issues against gluten protein would love almonds as it is absolutely gluten free! Thus, it is not only an important ingredient of gluten free food formulas, but also provides a heavenly and delicious alternative for those suffering from wheat food allergy and even celiac disease.
The low carbs content along with high protein and fibers of the almonds have demonstrated to increase satiety and thus decrease the hunger pangs. They also increase the metabolic rate of the body. Thus, it actually propels you to intake lower carbs. Now you know why serious dieters love almonds and are forgiving on its high fat content!
The high MUF as well as magnesium content of almond work diligently in lowering the rate of release of glucose in the bloodstream. It also breaks down on the insulin resistance of the body. Together they help in lowering the blood sugar levels in the most natural way.
For Skin And Hair
The benefits of almonds for skin and hair need no introduction. Apart from being a terrific source of vitamin E which nourishes the skin and fights ageing, almonds have high concentration of catechin, epicatechin and flavonol anti-oxidants. These not only reverse the oxidative stress from the skin, but also protect the skin from harmful UV rays, hydrate the skin and even protect it internally from skin cancer.
Food For Brain
Almonds are one of the best brain foods available today. Its riboflavin and L-carnitine nutrient content are known to positively affect the neurological activity as well as prevent cognitive decline. It is known to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. That is why almonds are especially recommended for the elderly people.
Now that you know the awesome benefits of almonds, include seven to eight pieces of it daily in your diet without any guilty pangs about its fat content! You know you are in reality cutting on calories and enhancing your health and fitness!
Source: fashionlady
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