Health benefits of almonds

28 November, 2012

A key to health is eating a handful of almonds a day, as they are loaded with nutrients. Almonds are delicious nuts and have long been known for their health benefits.

ALMONDS ARE rich in vitamins and minerals. They also provide proteins and fibers to the body. The most important components of almonds are omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are known as essential fatty acids and are rarely found in diet, we normally consume. Almonds contain fat, stored in the form of mono-saturated fats, which is good for heart.

The health benefits of almonds are numerous. The most important one is healthy heart. They also help to loosing weight as they contain nutrients like proteins, fibers and good fat. It is a healthy alternate for snacks. Eating almonds will not only avoid the need to consume junk food, but it will help to lower the cholesterol levels in the body.

Some people find it difficult to digest almonds, which they can consume by soaking them in water overnight. Almonds can be fantastic toppings on sweet dishes. The Almond Board of California says that eating twenty-three almonds a day provides you the maximum health benefits.

The health benefits and medical importance of almonds:

Regulating cholesterol levels – daily consumption of almonds not only decreases the levels of low density lipoproteins but also increases the levels of high density lipoproteins which are good for the heart.

Food for brain – almonds are regarded as the most essential food for the growing kids as it they are loaded with all the essential nutrients for a complete growth of the kid.

Good for heart – as they contain mono-saturated fats, they are a very good food for heart. Almonds also contains vitamin E, which acts as antioxidant and reduces the risk of heart attack. The folic acid present in almonds helps in reducing the homocystein levels in the arteries and avoids the build-up of fatty plaque in arteries.

Regulates blood pressure – potassium present in the almonds helps in regulating the blood pressure.

Boost energy levels – the micro elements present in almonds help in energy production.