PharmEasy Blog

Almonds: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects By Dr. Rajeev Singh 

Introduction: 

Relishing an ice cream with almond toppings or a glass of almond milk is a major satisfaction for our taste buds. Almonds, also known as Prunus dulcis, are among the world’s most loved tree nuts. They are one of the oldest tree nuts in the world and are native to the Mediterranean region. In the 16th century, almonds were first introduced in Kashmir by Persian settlers. However, cultivation has now spread to Maharashtra, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Locally known as “badam”, these nuts are light in colour, have a semi-hard shell with a wrinkled skin. Depending on the skin, many varieties are available, including green almonds, molar, sanora, ferradual, green almonds, peerless almonds and Carmel almonds; the California variety is considered to be the best. Apart from their use in the kitchen, almonds are packed with the goodness of health! Let’s discover how can this tiny food ingredient move mountains when it comes to health!1,2 

Did you know?

  • Almonds are a rich source of vitamin E, with one ounce providing 37% of the recommended daily intake. Source: ncbi
  • Regular almond consumption has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. Source: ncbi
  • Almonds are rich in antioxidants, which help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.Source: ncbi
  • Almonds have been shown to help lower LDL cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. Source: ncbi

Nutritional Value of Almonds: 

Almonds are highly beneficial due to the presence of various nutritional components that are given as follows.  

Nutritional components Value per 100 g 
Energy 575 kcal 
Fat 949 g 
Protein 21 g 
Fibre 12.2 g 
Potassium 670 mg 
Phosphorus 484 mg 
Magnesium 268 mg  
Calcium 265 mg 
Vitamin E 26 mg 
Omega-3-fatty acids 6 mg 
Iron 3.5 mg 

Table 1: Nutritional value of almonds1 

The moisturising qualities of almond oil might aid in soothing your dry skin and reducing irritation. According to research, creams containing almond oil may be used topically to relieve eczema and dermatitis symptoms. Additionally, almond oil may help with skin tone and appearance. Almond oil might also assist to hydrate and strengthen your hair and scalp. It might aid in healing damaged hair and taming frizz and moisture. Additionally, almond oil may be able to tackle the signs of a dry, itchy scalp.

Dr. Anuja Bodhare, MD

Properties of Almonds: 

The consumption of almonds shows numerous scientifically proven properties; some of these properties are mentioned below: 

From my knowledge, almonds contain unsaturated fat, which may raise serotonin levels over the day. Your brain has a hormone called serotonin that may aid in regulating your sleep and waking cycles. Better sleep at night is a result of higher levels of serotonin during the day.

Dr. Smita barode, BAMS

Also Read: Does Almond Milk Go Bad? Your Guide to Safe Consumption

Potential Uses of almonds for Overall Health: 

Some of the potential benefits of almonds are described as follows: 

1. Potential uses of almonds on cognition 

Age-related decline in cognitive function is a major public health issue. Literature reviews suggest that almonds’ nutrients may help improve cognitive function. Jelena et al. conducted a study in 2022 to assess the effect of almonds on cognition in the elderly. Six months of consumption of almonds by the elderly showed an improvement in cognition the elderly. This indicates that the consumption of almonds may help improve cognitive function. However, more studies are needed to support these claims.4 

2. Potential uses of almonds on heart 

Almonds may exert cardio-protective effects. Soumik et al. conducted a literature review in 2018, the summary estimates of which state that the cardio-protective effect is attributed due to the presence of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs and PUFAs), minerals and vitamins like copper, magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, zinc, potassium. In addition, a meta-analysis conducted by Berryman et al. in 2015 supports the consumption of almonds to reduce low-density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) and maintain high-density lipoprotein (good cholesterol). This indicates that almonds may provide a positive impact on cardiovascular health. However, more studies are needed to support these claims.5 

3. Potential uses of almonds for breast cancer 

Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women worldwide; few literature studies support the anticancer role of almonds. Alejandro et al. conducted a study in 2015 to assess the impact of almonds on breast cancer. This study showed higher consumption of almonds was associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer by 2-3 times. This indicates that consuming almonds may help manage breast cancer. However, more studies are needed to support these claims.6 

4. Potential uses of almonds for glycaemic control 

Almonds may help in improving the glucose levels in blood, also known as glycaemic levels. Sing-Chung et al. conducted a study in 2011 to assess the effect of almond consumption on glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus. As a result, 12 weeks of almond consumption by the study participants showed a positive impact on glycaemic control. This indicates that the consumption of almonds may help in balancing glucose levels in the blood. However, more studies are needed to ensure these facts.7 

5. Potential uses of almonds on inflammation 

Almonds are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, which may help lower inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein. Shahin et al. conducted a literature review in 2022 to assess the effects of almond consumption on inflammation. This study showed that daily consumption of almonds might help in reducing inflammation by lowering inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein. This indicates that the consumption of almonds may have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and a beneficial effect on arthritis. However, more studies are needed to support these claims in humans.8,9 

6. Other potential uses of almonds3 

Though there are studies that show the benefits of Almonds in various conditions, these are insufficient and there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of Almonds on human health.  

I recently read an article which suggests almond milk may act as a fantastic substitute for cow’s milk, whether you have allergies to dairy products or avoid it for other reasons. It is devoid of lactose, and cholesterol, and is frequently enriched with vitamins and minerals.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

How to Use Almonds? 

You must consult a qualified doctor before taking any herbal supplements. Do not discontinue or replace an ongoing treatment of modern medicine with an ayurvedic/herbal preparation without consulting a qualified doctor.   

Almonds may be used for making bones stronger. I strongly recommend the consumption of almonds regularly in your diet. Almonds are known for their richness in calcium and phosphorus which may help build stronger bones.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD

Side Effects of Almonds: 

A few side effects related to the consumption of almonds include:  

However, if you experience any adverse reactions to almonds, it is advised to discontinue its intake and immediately contact a doctor or your Ayurvedic physician who has prescribed it to you. They will be able to guide you appropriately for your symptoms. 

Precautions to take with Almonds: 

Eating almonds is okay if taken in moderate amounts. However, general precautions must be followed in the following conditions: 

Eating almonds is contraindicated in the following conditions: 

Interactions with Other Drugs: 

There are no significant interactions of almonds with other drugs. However, you must always seek the advice of your Ayurvedic physician about the possible interaction of almonds with other drugs, and follow the prescription thoroughly, as they will know your health condition and other medications you are taking. 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

1) What is the scientific name of almonds? 

The scientific name of almonds is Prunus dulcis.1 

2) Which is the best almond variety? 

Carmel almonds, widely known as the California variety is considered to be the best.1 

3)  Can almonds help in improving vision? 

Yes, almonds may help improve vision because of the presence of an antioxidant, Vitamin E which protects the eye from damage due to free radicals. However more studies need to be done to support these claims in humans. Therefore, it is advised to consult a doctor for a proper treatment.3 

4) Can almonds help in weight-loss? 

Yes, almonds have a low level of carbohydrates and high fiber and protein content. So, it may help in weight loss. however, more studies are needed to support these claims. Therefore, it is advised to consult a doctor for a proper treatment and do not consider the consumption of almonds as an alternative to modern medicine.3 

5) What are the side effects of almonds’ consumption? 

Consuming almonds in excess can result in diarrhoea, difficulty in swallowing, vomiting and severe itching. Allergy-prone individuals may also experience nut allergies.9 

References: 

  1. Scientific almond cultivation for higher returns – Researchgate. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/282332225 (Accessed: November 28, 2022).  
  1. Pritee (2022) Types of almonds: different varieties of almonds name list, Wellcurve Blog. Available at: https://www.wellcurve.in/blog/different-types-of-almonds-name-list/ (Accessed: November 28, 2022).  
  1. Jain, D. (2022) 21 healthy benefits of Almonds: Facts and faqs, PharmEasy Blog. Available at: https://pharmeasy.in/blog/20-healthy-benefits-of-almonds-facts-and-faqs/ (Accessed: November 28, 2022).  
  1. Mustra Rakic, Jelena et al. “Effects of daily almond consumption for six months on cognitive measures in healthy middle-aged to older adults: a randomized control trial.” Nutritional neuroscience vol. 25,7 (2022): 1466-1476. doi:10.1080/1028415X.2020.1868805. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/348532397_ 
  1. Kalita, Soumik et al. “Almonds and Cardiovascular Health: A Review.” Nutrients vol. 10,4 468. 11 Apr. 2018, doi:10.3390/nu10040468. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/352090102_ 
  1. Soriano-Hernandez, Alejandro D et al. “The protective effect of peanut, walnut, and almond consumption on the development of breast cancer.” Gynaecologic and obstetric investigation vol. 80,2 (2015): 89-92. doi:10.1159/000369997. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26183374/ 
  1. Li, Sing-Chung et al. “Almond consumption improved glycaemic control and lipid profiles in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.” Metabolism: clinical and experimental vol. 60,4 (2011): 474-9. doi:10.1016/j.metabol.2010.04.009. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/44802702 
  1. Fatahi, Shahin et al. “The Effects of Almond Consumption on Inflammatory Biomarkers in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials.” Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.) vol. 13,5 (2022): 1462-1475. doi:10.1093/advances/nmab158. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34967837/ 
  1. Best nuts and seeds for arthritis: Arthritis foundation (no date) Best Nuts and Seeds for Arthritis | Arthritis Foundation. Available at: https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/nutrition/healthy-eating/best-nuts-and-seeds-for-arthritis (Accessed: December 2, 2022).  
  1. Bezerra, Mário et al. “An Updated Overview of Almond Allergens.” Nutrients vol. 13,8 2578. 27 Jul. 2021, doi:10.3390/nu13082578. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8399460/ 
  1.  Garg, D.P. (2022) 9 research supported health benefits of almonds – PharmEasy, PharmEasy Blog. Available at: https://pharmeasy.in/blog/surprising-health-benefits-of-almonds/ (Accessed: November 28, 2022). 
  1. Lauro, Maria Rosaria et al. “Recycling of Almond By-Products for Intestinal Inflammation: Improvement of Physical-Chemical, Technological and Biological Characteristics of a Dried Almond Skins Extract.” Pharmaceutics vol. 12,9 884. 17 Sep. 2020, doi:10.3390/pharmaceutics12090884. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7558754/ 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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21 Healthy Benefits Of Almonds: Facts And FAQs

Almonds are said to be one of the world’s most loved tree nuts that are highly nutritious and filled with fats, antioxidants including vitamins and minerals. Most people are aware of the facts that almonds are good for your health, but the question lies what are their various health benefits?

Whether you may be relishing an ice cream with almond toppings or having a glass of almond milk, you name it and this nut is a major satisfaction to your taste buds and this also helps in a healthy diet. Now the question is how something this small can have a huge impact on your health? This is because almond seeds have antioxidants, proteins, hearty fats and minerals that are good for your body.

Did You Know?

Facts About Almonds:

You know for sure that almonds are good for your health, but let’s take a peek into what are its various health benefits and this can benefit you in the long run. Here are some must-know facts about almonds and how they can benefit you.

Almonds may be used for making bones stronger. I strongly recommend the consumption of almonds regularly in your diet. Almonds are known for their richness in calcium and phosphorus which may help build stronger bones.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD

Also Read: Does Almond Milk Go Bad? Your Guide to Safe Consumption

Healthy Benefits of Almonds:

Almonds are said to be beneficial for your health, but in what ways is the question that you need to ask yourself. So, what are the health benefits of almonds and what good would this nut do if it is added to your daily diet? Well, here are some scientifically proven benefits of almonds and their usages.

1. Almonds Reduce Cholesterol:

According to a recent study by the American Dietetic Association, consuming almonds were proven to increase your levels of Vitamin E in your red blood cells and also reduces your risks of having cholesterol. By boosting the levels of vitamin E in your bloodstream antioxidants are formed that prevents your cells from clogging developing cholesterol.  Thus consuming a handful of almonds daily can generate more vitamin E into your bloodstream and this can also save you from the risk of developing cholesterol.

2. Almonds are Good for Your Heart:

When almonds are consumed along with some other nuts, it is said that it is good for your heart. Well, according to a study published in 2014, researchers found that samples in the study who consumed almonds has more antioxidants in their bloodstream and this helped in reducing blood pressure and improved the flow of blood to various parts of the body. Also, the research concluded by stating that Mediterranean diets that had a lot of nuts in their foods had more health benefits.

3. Almonds Regulate Blood Sugar:

Consuming almonds is said to regulate blood sugar levels and stabilize them. This is because almonds have magnesium in them and it advised that you consume a handful of almonds daily. However, for people suffering from type 2 diabetes, almonds play an integral role in stabilizing it. So what basically happens if a diabetic person consumes almonds? The answer is, the person would develop insulin resistance which is great for people suffering from diabetes and this is because of the content of magnesium in the nut.

4. Almonds can help control Blood pressure levels:

 Low magnesium levels can cause high blood pressure. This leads to heart attacks, strokes and kidney failure. Almonds contain magnesium which helps control blood pressure effectively. If your body lacks magnesium, you must add almonds to your diet.

5. Almonds have High Vitamin E:

Almonds are said to contain higher levels of Vitamin E which is an antioxidant that protects your cells from getting toxic. With higher amounts of vitamin E being pumped into your bloodstream, this reduces your risks of developing Alzheimer’s disease, cancer and heart disease. Make sure that your intake of vitamin E is moderated because excessive intake of vitamin E can lead to prostate cancer. Make sure you consume how much is needed and do not do it in excess.

6. Almonds Reduces Weight:

Almonds have higher contents of protein and fiber and lower levels of carbohydrates that curbs your appetite and does not keep you craving for long. This also helps in reducing the number of calories on a daily basis. When almonds have the tendency to curb your appetite, this means that you can control what you intake and this helps in regulating your weight.

7. Almonds are Rich in Nutrients:

The edible seeds drawn out of almond trees are almonds and the United States is the largest producer of almonds in the world. Almonds are rich in nutrients wherein just 28 grams of almonds contain:

Note: Almonds also contain a good source of copper, vitamin B12 and phosphorus that provides 161 calories and 2.5 grams of digestive carbohydrates.

8. Almonds are Good for Your Eyes:

While carrots are said to be very good for your eyes, almonds have a high source of vitamin E that protect your eyes and prevents abnormal changes to your lens. Thus, consuming almonds will protects your eyes, but do not consume this in excess as this can lead to weight gain. Make it a point to consume almonds in moderation.

9. Almonds have a Rich Source of Antioxidants:

Almonds have a rich source of antioxidants that can protect you against stress. Stress leads to molecule damage that thereby results in inflammation, cancer and ageing. The antioxidants prevalent in almonds benefit your skin. However, consuming 84 grams of almonds per day can increase the levels of antioxidants in your body that will protect you from ageing and various other diseases.

10. Almond Nourishes Skin:

You may have read about almonds being a major part of the ingredients in most skin products and this is because of the fact that this nut has loads of benefits for your skin. Almonds contain a flavonoid that is similarly found in green tea and broccoli. This component nourishes your skin and is an anti-ageing property for your skin.

11. Almonds Prevent Cancer:

Almonds have certain amounts of fiber present in them that helps in detoxifying the body. Consuming almonds help food to move through the digestive system more easily. Almonds have high fiber in them and this reduces your risk of developing colon cancer. It also has loads of vitamin E and flavonoids that regulate breast cancer.

12. Almonds Improve Your Brain Power:

Almonds contain L-carnitine and riboflavin that helps in the growth of brain cells. One major chemical that helps the brain in cognitive function is phenylalanine and almonds do have this chemical in them. Consuming just five pieces of almonds every morning can help you boost your brainpower.

13. Almonds are Best for Treating Anaemia:

Anaemia is usually caused when red blood cells carry very less oxygen to the brain. Thus, almonds contain copper, iron and vitamins that help in producing more haemoglobin and as a result, almonds can be used to prevent anaemia.

14. Almonds are Good for Your Nerves:

Almonds have some amount of magnesium in them that benefits the nervous system. This also helps in developing a healthy metabolic rate. Magnesium also helps in better bone tissue. This has so much benefit that even peanut butter cannot offer you.

15. Almonds Treat Acne and Blackheads:

Almonds are considered to be the best remedy that can prevent and fight acne, blackheads and whiteheads through the fatty acids found in them. These fatty acids control the oil that gets clogged in these skin pores and thus when the almond oil is applied to your skin it also helps in reducing skin rashes.

16. Almonds Treat Stretch Marks:

Almond oil makes it effective for treating stretch marks by nourishing the skin and preventing skin tear. All you need to do is to heat the almond oil and apply it to the stretch marks and leave for an hour. Make sure you apply this twice a day and you will see the difference.

17. Almonds Prevent Grey Hair:

Almond oil is very essential in treating any kind of hair problems from hair fall to preventing hair from turning grey, you name it and almond oil comes in handy. Almond oil also helps in curing dandruff and other types of hair problems. The best part about using almond oil for your hair is that it gives a silky and shiny texture.

18. Almonds Help in Hair Growth:

Lack of magnesium in your body leads to loss of hair and thus the high amounts of magnesium found in almonds help your hair grow fast and develop strong strands. Thus, almonds help in hair growth.

19. Almonds are Natural Anesthetics:

When it comes to any stitching of your skin, plucking of the tooth or so forth, almond oil can play an important role such that it can heal as an anaesthetic. Almond oil has a toxic compound called glycoside amygdalin that makes your nerves insensitive and so you may feel numb once this is applied. Also, keep in mind that you can use bitter almond oil only as an anaesthetic and not for any other purposes.

20. Almonds Increase Mental Alertness:

When almonds are mixed with milk they become rich in potassium. This is one of the main minerals that boost the number of electrolytes in your body, thus providing the body with more energy. When there is a boost in electrolytes, your memory flow also increases and this can happen by consuming almond milk. In simple terms, almond milk makes your memory sharper.

21. Almonds Prevent Birth Defects:

Almonds contain folic acids that protect the mother from any sort of birth defects. Folic acid plays an integral role in the development of healthy cell growth and also helps in the life cycle of a growing fetus. Pregnant women who consume almonds can help protect their baby from developing any sort of birth defects.

Almonds, although having a lot of calories, may lower your risk of weight gain and obesity, provided you pay attention to portion control in your daily food intake. As a result of the good quality of protein and fibre in the nuts, you feel fuller more quickly, allowing you to consume fewer calories while still satiating your appetite. I recommend including almonds in your daily routine.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Risks of Consuming Almonds:

If almonds are good for your health, it also has its own drawbacks if it is excessively consumed. Some people may develop allergies due to the over-consumption of almonds. Here are some of the risks that are associated with the consumption of almonds.

Note: If you are allergic to consuming almonds, then you need to avoid this nut as this can cause further complications.

Managing Almond Allergies:

If you are allergic to almonds or even other nuts, it is essential to have some basic information regarding these allergies and how to manage them. Here are a few basic things you should keep in mind:

Types of almond allergy:

It is important to remember the almond allergy symptoms and reach out to a medical professional as early as possible when faced with an allergic reaction.

FAQs:

Now that you have understood the benefits of almonds, here are some frequently asked questions that will shed some more light on some of its other facets. Almonds can do good to your health, but it can also be very dangerous if it is excessively consumed. This means that you need to moderately consume almonds.

1. What happens if you eat too many almonds?

Any that is consumed in excess has its own de-merits and in the case of consuming almonds in excess, you need to consume it in moderation as this nut can cause various other health problems if eaten in excess. Here is what may happen if you consume a lot of almonds.
> Weight Gain
> Digestive problems
> May lead to kidney stones
> May develop nut allergies
> Will lead to toxication

2. How many almonds can I eat a day?

Though almonds are considered healthy for you, there is a certain amount of them that you can consume. The number of almond intake depends on whether you are looking for weight gain or weight loss. So, if you want to put on more weight, then you can have 40 almonds a day beginning from breakfast. Well if you looking for weight loss, you need to consume only 5 almonds with a glass of milk for breakfast.

3. Why should you consume soaked almonds?

The skin of the almond has tannin, which inhibits the absorption of nutrients. This makes eating almonds less useful. It is easy to peel the almonds when they have been soaked for a while in lukewarm water. You may also use soaked and peeled almonds to make almond milk.

4. Are almonds poisonous?

There are two different types of almonds namely sweet and bitter almonds. Bitter almond has healing properties such that it is used in bitter almond oil that acts as a natural anaesthetic while surgery. But bitter almonds are very dangerous because it contains glycoside amygdalin which is poisonous content if consumed. When bitter almonds are heated, they generated hydrogen cyanide which is an instant killer.

Almonds serve many beneficial purposes to all of us and as a result, they must be consumed within the limit. Excessive consumption can be fatal. If you’re looking for a healthy lifestyle, don’t forget to add it to your regular diet. So, live healthily and stay fit.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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9 Health Benefits Of Almonds That You Should Know

Almonds, also popularly known as Badam are a treasure trove of nutrients. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, dietetic fibre, and monounsaturated fat, which improves the health of the heart. In fact, this list can go on and on.Almonds (Prunus dulcis) or Badam, a very famous, nutritious nut is actually an edible seed. It is widely grown in California.Almonds are whitish in colour, covered by a thin brown skin and lastly enclosed in a hard shell. They are oval in shape and have a sweet, nutty smell. Almonds are rich in calories as well as nutrients.

Almonds Nutritional Value

Almonds contain carbohydrates (22%), proteins (21%) and fats (50%). Almonds are rich in B vitamins riboflavin and niacin, vitamin E and minerals like calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc. They also contain dietary fibre, monounsaturated fat (oleic acid), polyunsaturated fat (linoleic acid) and many phytosterols.

9 Health Benefits of Eating Almonds Are:

Almonds are rich in magnesium and Vitamin E and also contain a good amount (21%) of proteins. This helps in maintaining our energy levels throughout the day and keeping us active. Almonds are a very good choice for quick snacks.Read More: 9 Energy Giving Foods to Solve Your Energy Woes Almonds are known as ‘Food for the Brain’. Vitamin E content in almonds makes us alert and improves memory retention.As per research, soaking almonds overnight and having them in the morning, on an empty stomach increases Vitamin E and improves memory.[1] Magnesium in almonds lowers blood pressure and blood sugar levels.[2] Thus, almonds help in the management of diabetes and reduce the risk of heart diseases.Almonds also lower LDL cholesterol levels and prevent oxidation, thus protecting our heart. [3]Almonds help to lower blood sugar also due to their magnesium content, this mineral is involved in hundreds of bodily processes including glucose control. Additionally, the mix of nutrients like proteins, fibre and healthy fats ensure that diabetic patients don’t face sudden sugar spikes when they eat a handful of almonds. For people with diabetes, the health benefits of almonds as a snack may be a part of your glucose management routine.   Read More: Understanding Recommended & Normal Cholesterol Levels Almonds are rich in antioxidants. Vitamin E present in almonds is also an antioxidant and protects our cells from oxidative damage, largely reducing the risk of cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. [4] The rich antioxidant content of almonds protects us from the varied effects of ageing and age-related diseases.[5]Massaging our face with almond oil fights early signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles. Regular usage keeps our skin looking youthful. The antioxidant effect of almonds helps to reduce oxidative stress and cell damage. This results in not only slower ageing and a lower risk of cancer but also helps to curtail inflammation in the body. Inflammation occurs when the body reacts to damage and infection and results in aches, pains, swelling apart from other issues. The anti-inflammation benefits of almonds have been seen to reduce oxidative markers in clinical studies (when almonds were consumed regularly over a period of time). Anaemia is a dangerous condition in which the red blood cells in our body, carry very less oxygen to the brain. This results due to a deficiency of haemoglobin. Almonds contain iron, copper, and vitamins. So they help in boosting the haemoglobin levels in our body and are useful in the active treatment of Anaemia.[6]Read More: 7 Home Remedies for Anaemia Almonds are rich in fibre and proteins. So, consumption of almonds makes us feel full for longer periods, thus reducing our hunger and calorie intake.Almonds thus lead to a reduction in weight. [7] Consumption of almonds increases the beneficial bacteria in our gut, thus promoting gut health and improving digestion. [8] High levels of calcium in almonds, keep our musculoskeletal system healthy and prevents the risk of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.Read More: How to Keep Bones & Joints Healthy?

Other uses of Almonds:

Best Way to Eat almonds:

To ensure maximum health benefits, soak almonds overnight (around 8 hours) and have them empty stomach in the morning, preferably with the brown skin intact.

The Ideal Dose of Almonds:

There is no such ideal dose but eating a handful (around 15-25) almonds per day could be beneficial to our body, as a part of a balanced diet.

Different Forms in Which Almonds are Available:

Also Read: 10 Health Benefits of Sabja Seeds  Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.  

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