Almonds are one of Mother Nature’s greatest snacks, and since they’re easy to grab-on-the-go, there’s no messy preparation in the kitchen either. Grown on a tree native to Mediterranean climate regions of the Middle East, from Syria and Turkey to Pakistan, these nuts are full of high levels of fiber, vitamin E, and proteins. Mumbai-based fitness expert and nutritionist Madhuri Ruia says,
“Almonds are a natural source of many essential nutrients, including protein and healthy fats. Eating a handful of almonds (30 grams/23 almonds) as a daily habit gives you and your family the power to take on the day.”
Almonds also find a mention in traditional Ayurveda. A main function of almonds is to tone up all body tissues, especially the reproductive. According to Siddha practice, almonds are also thought to have a therapeutic effect on debility and weakness, caused by chronic diseases including diabetes and other lifestyle conditions such as gastric irritation.
Below are some of the benefits of these energy-filled nuts:
1# Boost cognition:
Research has shown that almonds can help increasing cognition. Almonds are packed with nutrients that are important for brain health, including vitamin E, folate and unsaturated fatty acids, and L-carnitine – which has been found to have brain-boosting, neuroprotective benefits.
2# Good for the heart:
Almonds are mainly mono and polyunsaturated which are not harmful to the heart. Almonds contain linoleic acid, an important fatty acid which contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of coronary heart disease.
3#Help in losing weight:
Almonds are a low-calorie snack option. They fill up the stomach for a longer time than junk food and they control hunger for a longer period of time.
4# Great for skin:
Almonds are secretly the healthiest and cheapest way to get an A-lister glow. Almonds are high in zinc and riboflavin. Almonds are rich in vitamin E, which can help to protect cells from the oxidative stress caused by pollution, UV rays from the sun.
5# Source of energy:
Almonds make a great alternative to caffeine-loaded drinks, like tea and coffee.
