NUTRITION
Posted by DiabeTV - 2 July, 2014
DIABETES AND NUTRITION: THE HEALTHY BENEFITS OF ALMONDS
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Almonds have had a long history one that has been well documented in numerous ancient texts including the Bible. Researchers assume due to the written text over the years that the nut originates from Asia and Africa. Many explorers ate the almond when travelling between Asia and the Mediterranean in a path called the “Silk Road”. This help the nut gain popularity in both of those regions and is now part of their cuisine. While not just for food it has also served for both medicinal and religious purposes such as fertility charms during weddings and preventing constipation.
Almonds are rich in health promoting nutrients that you should be aware off one that provides protection from diseases and cancer. The addition of these nuts into your diet will greatly benefit your body. Almonds are an extremely versatile food that can be extracted to make almond oil or almond milk (more nutritious than cow milk), providing a myriad of possible recipes. 1 oz. of almonds or 23 whole kernels has: 164 calories, 14 grams of fat, 3 grams of dietary fiber, 1 gram of sugar, and 6 grams of protein.
For only 1 oz. of almonds they are rather high in fat however these are monounsaturated (good) fats that help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and recent studies have showed that if consumed properly it can reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels due to its fiber and vitamin E content.
Almonds are an excellent source of B vitamins (such as riboflavin and folic acid) that improve cognitive function which in turn may reduce the occurrence of Alzheimer’s disease, boost the nervous system, and prevents neural tube defects in pregnant women.
The nut is rich in fiber making it for your digestive system preventing common disorders that plague your stomach such as diarrhea or constipation. It also helps keep you full longer preventing late night cravings, keeps cancer causing substances away from the colon, and regulates blood sugar levels.
Vitamin E content inside the almonds give the nut antioxidant properties that further boost its cancer fighting effects by fighting off free radicals and reduces the occurrence of type 2 diabetes.
Potassium and its low sodium content help regulate blood pressure. Phosphorus and calcium inside the nut supports bone mass that can prevent conditions such as osteoporosis.
Not only can the almond be enjoyed being consumed in various cooking methods its oils can be used to give healthier skin to newborn babies alongside almond milk that is added into soap. Please always try to eat in moderation to enjoy a healthier life style. more