Healthy, Delicious and Highly versatile. Almonds are an incredibly popular tree nut that is highly rich in proteins, vitamins, calcium, iron, and magnesium. Almonds are available in the markets in two varieties- sweet and bitter. Sweet almonds are edible while the bitter ones are used to make almond oil.
According to the nutritionists, eating soaked almonds is much healthier than eating the raw ones. Soaking them in water overnight removes the toxic materials present in its coating, releases phytic acid and decomposes its gluten content and makes it more nutritious and healthier.
Almonds are added and used in garnishing sweet dishes. They are extremely helpful for the people suffering from diabetes and blood pressure.
From brain to heart, from constipation to cancer, Almonds boost up your health in many ways. Here are the ten surprising benefits of almonds:
1. RICH IN NUTRIENTS
One of the remarkable quality of almonds is its high content of nutrients that hat help alkalize the digestive tract, reducing acid build-up and balancing the body’s ph.
A handful of almonds contain nutrients like iron, magnesium, and phosphorus that help in energy production. They are a great source of fats and fibres and serve the body with a healthy dose of proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Vitamin E present in almonds is vital for healthy, glowing skin and hair and nails.
Including almonds in your diet or eating four to five almonds in the morning daily is enough to keep you accelerated, stimulated and charged for the whole day.
2. IMPROVES BRAIN FUNCTION
Eating a handful of almonds daily not only improves the functioning of the brain but stimulates the nervous system too. The Vitamin E present in them improves alertness and boost up the memory.
Eating 4 to 5 soaked almonds daily can serve the purpose of brain tonic and sharpen your memory. They contain brain nutrients named riboflavin and L-carnitine which both increase brain activity. On the longer term, they can also prevent brain diseases like Alzheimer’s disease.
Loaded with rich nutrients, Almonds prevent cognitive decline and accelerates the functioning of mind and body. So, never forget to include almond in your diet.
3. CONTROLS DIABETES
Studies have shown that almonds help in controlling blood sugar level and diabetes. The healthy fats, vitamins, and fibers present in almonds regulate the absorption and processing of glucose.
Almonds protect from the dangerous spikes in blood sugar after large meals which in turn reduces the risk of developing diabetes.
To maintain a healthy blood sugar level, eat one ounce of almonds immediately before eating a large meal.
4. FULL OF ANTIOXIDANTS
Besides a wide range of nutrients, almonds also contain antioxidants that protect our body from infections. They help to protect against oxidative stress, which can damage molecules in cells and contribute to aging and diseases like cancer.
Almonds are loaded with potent antioxidants to keep the body healthy and away from infections and diseases. They strengthen the immune system and increases the ability of the body and mind to stave off diseases and other health conditions.
Studies have shown that the people who consume almonds daily are less prone to diseases and lead a healthy life as compared to the non-users. So, the presence of antioxidants is another reason why you should include almond in your diet.
5. REDUCES CHOLESTEROL
One of the most celebrated benefits of almonds is its contribution in regulating the cholesterol level. The monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats it contains helps to raise good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol.
Almonds contain vitamin E that increases the good cholesterol level in the bloodstream and increase the level of high-density lipoproteins and reduce the low-density lipoproteins.
6. IMPROVES BLOOD PRESSURE
Almonds are highly rich in potassium and contain low content of sodium that helps in regulating high blood pressure. The presence of folic acid and magnesium in them lowers the risk of artery congestion.
Soaked almonds can also treat hypertension which is very common in today’s society. Include an ounce of almonds in your diet daily to keep your blood pressure normal.
7. HELPS IN WEIGHT LOSS
Want to lose that stubborn belly fat, but unable to do so?? No worries. Include almonds in your diet and help curb your appetite and make you feel full and nourished, so you will have fewer cravings and will avoid overeating.
The magnesium in almonds helps regulate blood sugar, which is key in reducing food cravings and the presence of Vitamin B and Zinc stop sugar cravings.
If you are willing to reduce your weight, try not to exceed the recommended serving size of 1 ounce, or 23 almonds.
8. HEART HEALTH
Maintaining a healthy heart should be the prime purpose of an individual. Presence of protein, potassium, and magnesium in almonds reduces the risk of heart-related problems and prevents heart attacks. Additionally, high content of magnesium helps to smooth the flow of blood around the body and prevent blockages.
Eating 1.5 ounces a day of most nuts, like almonds, may reduce the risk of heart disease and help in building a healthy heart. You can have almonds in the morning or sprinkle some in your soup, salad or smoothie.
9. GOOD IN PREGNANCY
Eating soaked almonds daily is highly nutritious and beneficial for the health of an expected mother, as well as the baby in her womb. The nourishment provided by almonds to a mother and the fetus is commendable.
Also, the folic acid present in almonds which are known to aid in the healthy growth of a baby prevents the risk of birth defects in the fetus.
Do not forget to include almonds in your daily diet chart if you are a pregnant woman and is worried about your and your baby’s health.
10. BENEFITS TO THE BONES
The high content of calcium and phosphorus in almonds ensure the building of healthy bones. Phosphorus strengthens the bones and make them stronger and last longer. Same goes for your teeth too. Almonds can prevent age-related diseases like osteoporosis.
Almonds are a great source of Vitamin E and other antioxidants that nourish the skin and reduces the sign of aging. They strengthen the immune system and keep the body away from various diseases.
Conclusion
Along with the above mentioned ten benefits of almonds, there are other more such surprising perks too. You can eat them raw, cooked, roasted, and soaked or any way you like to. Almonds can be used in sweet dishes, cookies, cakes and as flavors or in garnishing too. You can buy them from the nearest grocery shop or can purchase them online. The user can therefore easily avail heavy discounts using paytm promo codes or grofers coupons. I hope you will find this article useful and will include almonds in your diet for sure.
Eat healthily. Stay healthy.
Thank you for reading our article and if you have any doubts/queries/suggestions, please feel free to comment below. If you find this article useful and knowledgeable, please share it with your circle. You can even contact us privately through the contact form or through social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, Google+ etc.
