Life is Freaky

Almonds: Full pack of nutrition

In addition to healthy fats (heart-healthy monounsaturated fat) and vitamin E, almonds are extremely rich in magnesium, potassium, copper, riboflavin (vitamin B2), phosphorus and proteins. Magnesium lessens resistance and improves the flow of blood, oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Potassium helps in maintaining normal blood pressure and heart functioning. Research suggests that people who eat almonds at least twice a week are much less likely to gain weight than those who almost never ate almonds.

Health benefits of almonds:

1.Very healthy for heart:

1. According to scientists of Antioxidants Research Laboratory at Tufts University “Almonds offer a unique combination of flavonoids and the research demonstrated that eating almonds with their skins significantly increases both flavonoids and vitamin E in the body.
2. Potent antioxidant flavonoids found in almond act as major contributors to the health benefits derived from other foods, such as naringenin, found in grapefruit and the catechins found in green tea.

2. Cholesterol Reduction:

1. LDL is the form of cholesterol which is linked to atherosclerosis and heart diseases. LDL cholesterol can be reduced from 8 to 12% by substituting almonds with more traditional fats in our diet.

3. Protection against high blood pressure:

1. Almonds provides extensive support to cardiovascular health by supplying 257 mg of potassium and only 0.3 mg of sodium to the body making almonds extremely beneficial in protecting against high blood pressure and atherosclerosis.

4. Protection against Diabetes and Cardiovascular Diseases:

1. Almonds reduce the Glycemic Index (GI) of the meal hence reducing the person’s blood sugar after eating. Low- Glycemic Index diet result in lower risk of diabetes and heart disease.
2. Reduced after-meal surge in blood sugar helps protect against diabetes and cardiovascular disease by reducing the increase in cholesterol-damaging free radicals that accompanies high rise in blood sugar.

5. Helpful in weight reduction:

1. A low calorie diet rich in almonds helps overweight individuals shed pounds more effectively than a low calorie diet high in complex carbohydrates
2. Regular consumption of almonds promotes greater reduction in their weight/BMI (body mass index) and body fat.

6. Cancer Prevention:

Almonds are low in saturated fat and contain calcium and magnesium which promotes strong bones, and also contain compounds called phytochemicals, which may help protect against cardiovascular disease and cancer.

7. Nutritious in pregnancy: Almonds are one great source of Folic Acid which is very beneficial during pregnancy. Also, Almonds contain more magnesium than oatmeal or even spinach.

So, your daily diet of almonds contains all those important vitamins and minerals you need to improve your diet and fight disease. And above all, they taste great!

Some tips to include almonds in your diet!

1. Sprinkle a handful of almonds over your morning cereal, lunchtime salad or dinner’s steamed vegetables.
2. Soak a handful of almonds overnight. Peel off their skin in the morning and consume. This makes your breakfast all the more nutritious
3. Mix some chopped almonds to plain yogurt which enhances it’s nutritious value
4. Spread some almond butter to brown bread and your sandwiches will taste superb!