Almonds: useful properties, composition, calories, contraindications

2024 Author: Isabella Gilson | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:14

Almonds are he althy nuts that you can buy in the supermarket, although they are not exactly a nut, but more seeds. They belong to the prunus group, a variety of trees and shrubs that also include apricots, cherries, plums and peaches.

Almond nuts were originally found in North Africa, West Asia and the Mediterranean regions. They are rich in vitamins and minerals and are high in dietary fiber and monounsaturated fat, which contribute to heart he alth. The he alth benefits of almonds are almost endless!

Lower cholesterol

Almonds are a good source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol. Consuming almonds as part of a regular diet can help increase your HDL cholesterol, or "good" cholesterol levels. According to the study,by David Jenkins, people who consumed a handful of almonds daily reduced bad cholesterol levels by 4.4%, and those who consumed two handfuls daily reduced their bad cholesterol levels by 9.4%.

Prevent cancer

The dietary fiber present in almonds helps in detoxifying the body. This allows food to pass through the digestive system more efficiently. This process cleanses the digestive system. Almonds can be attributed to foods that prevent colon cancer because they are high in fiber. The he alth benefits of almonds also include an excellent supply of vitamin E, phytochemicals and flavonoids, which control the progression of breast cancer cells.

The presence of hydrogen cyanide in bitter almond oil is said to have healing properties for certain types of cancer. This fact was published recently in a medical study.

Almonds can potentially reduce the risk of cancer. A study published in 2015 in Gynecological and Obstetrics Investigations examined nut consumption and cancer risk. They found that people who consumed more peanuts, walnuts and almonds had a 2-3 times lower risk of breast cancer.

So, include almonds in your daily diet - as a snack, in smoothies, or add them to baked goods. You can also replace your regular milk with almond milk and your regular flour with almond flour.

Blood sugar

Almonds contain relatively high levels of magnesium. There is some evidence that this nut may help control blood sugar levels. This he alth benefit of almonds is thought to be due to their high magnesium content, containing nearly half of the daily recommended amount in just 60g of almonds.

Increase energy

Almonds contain: manganese, riboflavin and copper, which help in energy production. If you lead an active lifestyle, then take these nuts with you, which will serve as a source of energy for you.

Birth Defect Prevention

Almonds contain folic acid, a proven protection against birth defects. Folic acid plays a large role in he althy cell growth and tissue configuration and is therefore very important for he althy fetal growth. Women who consume folic acid, by eating these nuts during pregnancy, reduce the risk of developing a neural tube defect in the child. Therefore, almonds are especially useful for women.

Stimulates the brain

Scientific studies on the he alth benefits of almonds have shown that they contain riboflavin and L-carnitine, nutrients that aid in the growth of brain cells. These nuts also contain phenylalanine, a brain-boosting chemical that helps our cognitive functions. Ayurveda advises eating five water-soaked almonds first thing in the morning every day for maximum brain function.

Strengthens bones and teeth

Almonds are gooda source of trace elements such as calcium and phosphorus, which prevent osteoporosis and strengthen bones and teeth. It also provides other nutrients that improve bone mineral density and strengthen the skeleton.

Help for anemia

Anemia occurs when red blood cells contain less oxygen. Almonds contain copper, iron and vitamins that work as a catalyst in the synthesis of hemoglobin. Therefore, this nut can be used as a preventive measure against anemia.

Weight Loss

High-calorie almonds do not contribute to weight gain. On the contrary, its use has contributed to weight loss, since he althy fiber and high protein help to make the stomach full. There is even an assumption that these calories cannot be absorbed and turn into extra pounds. However, the fatness from eating this nut, coupled with its nutritional profile, has proven to be the reason why people consume junk food besides it, regardless of its calorie content. For almonds, it is 600 kcal per 100 g.

He althy protein

Those looking to build muscle can choose almond oil as it is a he althy source of protein. The unsaturated fat in almond oil lowers cholesterol levels and helps maintain heart muscle. A he althy adult should consume at least 25% of their daily calories from fat, and he althy fat combined with protein is the best way to go. This makes almonds especially for men.helpful.

Nerves and muscles

The magnesium present in almonds has many benefits for the nervous system and muscle contraction as the mineral plays a role in both functions. It also promotes he althy metabolism and bone he alth.

Antioxidants

Almond oil, with its vitamin E, has significant antioxidant properties that protect tissues from oxidative damage. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals. One scoop of almond oil will take care of almost 30% of your daily need.

Vitamin E

One of the he alth benefits of almonds is their high levels of vitamin E, an antioxidant. In fact, they are one of the best natural sources of vitamin E, providing 37 percent of the recommended daily intake in just 30 grams of almonds. Vitamin E helps protect body cells from damage.

In addition, higher consumption has long been linked to a reduced risk of certain diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, some cancers and heart disease.

Increase digestion and metabolism

Almond milk contains dietary fiber. It is known for its properties that improve digestion. Thus, almond milk alleviates the problem of indigestion. With good digestion, unwanted and unhe althy toxins are eliminated from the human body. This further increases the metabolic rate.

Become fit

Almond milk is rich in muscle-building proteins. They improve muscle he alth by repairing damaged ligaments and tissues. Thus, it is also a very valuable and nutritious drink for athletes. Improved muscle he alth greatly reduces body fatigue.

Increases mental alertness

Almonds are rich in potassium. It is one of the minerals that make up the electrolytes in the human body. These electrolytes are the charges that enhance memory. Thus, almonds are a natural way to improve memory.

Reduce fever

When the body temperature is high, the use of almond oil can significantly reduce the temperature. Cause? Bitter almonds are said to contain alkaline elements that are present in some toxins. They prevent influenza, viruses or bacteria from spreading in the human body. But a deeper reason has not yet been discovered.

Like an anesthetic

When it comes to minor skin wounds or tooth extractions, bitter almond oil can be used as an anesthetic. A poisonous component called amygdalin glycoside, which is present in bitter almond oil, can temporarily disable the nerves to relieve the feeling of pain. But, it should also be noted that bitter almond oil can only be used as an anesthetic compound externally. Ingesting it can lead to a he alth hazard.

Skincare

Have you ever used almond oil for your skin? AlmondThe oil is an excellent moisturizer as it contains linoleic acid olein glyceride. It works to prevent acne, stretch marks as well as dry skin. It also provides vitamin E, essential for he althy skin. This helps make it glow and also acts as a mild disinfectant for wounds. It is also used as a massage oil for young children.

Protect skin from sun exposure

Almonds contain adequate amounts of vitamin E, which is listed as an important nutrient for the skin. Foods rich in this vitamin act as a shield against sun exposure and minimize skin damage. Almond milk can be used to effectively treat sunburn and other skin problems.

Natural Moisturizer

Almonds are considered a natural moisturizer and can easily replace chemically rich creams and serums. Cleanse your face thoroughly and apply a few drops of oil on your face. Massage the skin with upward movements, including the eye area. Daily use will result in smoother and softer skin. Almond oil is non-greasy and absorbs quickly into the skin. It also won't clog pores.

Reduce dark circles and puffiness

Almond oil and paste are very effective for dark circles under the eyes. Soak the almonds in water and grind them to make a paste. Apply it around the eyes and leave overnight. The moisturizing properties of almonds will reduce dark circles and puffiness under the eyes. This is,will definitely work better than ready-made eye creams.

Anti-Aging Nature

Almonds are believed to have anti-aging properties. Facial massage with almond oil fights the signs of aging so that the skin is supple and youthful. Make a face mask by combining honey, almond oil and lemon juice in equal amounts. Use this simple face mask twice a week to reduce wrinkles and revitalize your skin.

Treats stretch marks

Almond oil's emollient properties make it very effective for treating stretch marks. It strengthens and nourishes the skin, creating a natural tear resistance. Heat up some oil and apply on stretch marks. Massage the area in circular motions for a few minutes. Use it twice a day for optimal results.

Improve hair growth

Almonds are high in magnesium, which is an essential mineral for he althy hair. Magnesium deficiency is often associated with hair loss, so magnesium intake through almonds not only helps keep the body functioning properly, but also promotes hair growth.

Almond oil is also very helpful in treating all kinds of hair problems. It helps to "curb" hair loss and dandruff, and prevents gray hair. Almond oil makes hair silky and shiny.

Selection and storage

Almonds are readily available all year round in many forms such as shelled, unshelled, s alted, sweetened and evencrushed. If you choose unshelled nuts, shake them. If they make a lot of noise, then chances are they are old or dry. Buy shelled almonds that are bright brown in color and uniform in size. It should be free from cracks and stains, and should not smell rancid.

Almonds often become bitter over time. To test for rancidity, cut an almond in half and look at the white part. If the inside of the almond is yellow or has a honeycomb texture, then it should be discarded.

Packed almonds are best stored in a cool, dark place, they can even be kept in the refrigerator. It won't change its taste in any way. Once opened, store it in an airtight container or sealed bag in a cool, dry place. Avoid putting almonds near foods that have a strong smell, as the nuts can easily absorb them. Protect it from insects and pests. For maximum shelf life, almonds should be kept away from moisture.

Benefit

Almonds are one of the most versatile nuts in the world. You can add this nut to almost every meal. The taste of almonds is nutty, but pleasant and sweet. It can be used in both s alted and uns alted forms. Very tasty almonds in chocolate, but better in bitter. However, you should not abuse such a delicacy.

Now we know the nutritional benefits of almonds. Its composition is described below.

Risks

There are potential risks and contraindications for almonds. Allergic to this nut, actuallyin fact, quite common. Almond allergy symptoms may include:

• stomach pain or cramps;
• nausea and vomiting;
• trouble swallowing;
• diarrhea;
• itch;
• bad breath;
• shortness of breath.

For allergies, it is important to avoid any foods that may contain this nut.

For those who don't have a reaction to this nut, there are several other potential downsides to almonds. Eating too many nuts can cause weight gain, certain drug interactions (such as an overdose of vitamin E), and lead to gastrointestinal problems, but this is usually only a risk if you consume a lot of nuts. Like all sources of he althy fats, they should make up a significant portion of your diet, but portion control is important. However, before using it, it is worth considering the benefits and harms of almonds.

Raw nuts can carry bacteria. Rarely, salmonella and e-coli have been carried by raw almonds, although most people have no problem eating them.

Taking into account the benefits and harms of almonds, it turns out that this nut is extremely beneficial for he alth! It is used for delicious treats and he althy eating.