Remember how grandma made you eat soaked almonds every morning? You might have cringed then, but grandma’s always right!
It’s ancient knowledge that almonds are bunched up goodness.
Now, the west is catching up to it. A recently conducted study by Penn State researchers claimed that “eating almonds on a regular basis may help boost levels of HDL cholesterol while simultaneously improving the way it removes cholesterol from the body.” Simply put, almonds can put a check on rising cholesterol levels and even push out bad cholesterol from our bodies – a boon in the times of sluggish lifestyles and eating disorders.
The health benefits of almonds are seldom contested. There is an almost unanimous acceptance of almonds as a powerhouse of essential nutrients, flavonoids, omega 3 fatty acids, proteins antioxidants and vitamins.
According to Dr Shilpa Arora, Health Practitioner and Macrobiotic Nutritionist, “Consuming 15 almonds daily works well for the body. Soak them before eating as soaked almonds absorb nutrients better.”
Almonds have a range of benefits. They help in weight loss, maintain blood sugar, blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels. In addition, almonds can give you supple, glowing skin and can also strengthen your hair strands.Dt Huda Shaikh, nutritionist and clinical dietitian, NutriBond
Regulates Blood Sugar
According to Dt Huda Shaikh, every 30 gms of almonds contain 3.5 grams of fibre, 6 grams of proteins and 14 grams of fats. The high protein and fiber content combined with monounsaturated fatty acids regulates blood sugar. She further adds,
Almonds are a rich source of magnesium – a mineral which most of the diabetics lack – which can help in lowering the blood sugar levels. Magnesium present in almonds also improves the functioning of insulin.
Slashes Bad Cholesterol
Almonds are a great source of fiber, Vitamin E and flavonoids which can prevent the formation of plaque within the arteries.Dt Huda Shaikh
Aids Weight Loss
Dt Huda Shaikh says,
The presence of fibre, proteins as well as healthy fats in almonds keep you full for longer durations. Not only do almonds provide satiety, but also reduce the chances of binge-eating or over-eating.
Dr Shilpa Arora, a macrobiotic nutritionist, says, “Almonds are great snacking option for diabetics and people aiming to lose weight.”
Food for the Brain
Almonds are endowed with omega 3 fatty acids which not only keep the brain healthy, but also boost memory.
Almonds contain Riboflavin and L-carnitine which influence neurological functioning and help in cognitive development.Dt Huda Shaikh
Works Wonders for Hair and Skin
From almond oil to almond milk, the beauty industry is gaga over almonds. The high content of Vitamin E in almonds nourishes the skin and protects it from ageing. Dt Huda widely hailed benefits of almonds for skin and hair. She says,
Almonds contain high concentrations of antioxidants like catechins, epicatechin and flavanol which are known to fight skin cancer and oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
She further adds, “The healthy fats in almonds make it ideal for maintaining hair and skin health. Vitamin D and magnesium in almonds strengthen hair strands and give lustrous hair.”
Almonds are a rich source of riboflavin magnesium which nourishes the body cells, giving the skin a healthy glow.Dr Shilpa Arora, Health Practitioner and Macrobiotic Nutritionist
Next time, when your mom cajoles you into having almonds, give in. And thank her later!
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