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Nutrition Tip of the Month
Health Benefits of Almonds
Good for brain: Almond is a source of many nutrients that helps in
development of the brain. Almond induces high intellectual level and has
been considered as an essential food item for growing children. Many mothers
give almond soaked in water to their children daily in the morning (2-3
pieces of soaked almonds are good enough, you can also remove the outer
shell if it causes allergy to you).
Regulates cholesterol: Regular
consumption of almonds helps to increase the level of high-density
lipoproteins (HDL) and reduce the level of low density lipoproteins (LDL),
thereby effectively controlling cholesterol levels. LDL cholesterol is
called bad cholesterol.
Good for heart: Mono-saturated fat, protein
and potassium contained in almonds are good for the heart. Vitamin E acts as
an antioxidant and reduces the risk of heart diseases. The presence of
magnesium in almonds helps to avoid heart attacks. Almonds help reduce
C-reactive protein which causes artery-damaging inflammation. Almond is also
a source of folic acid. It therefore helps to reduce the level of
homocystein, which causes fatty plaque buildup in arteries.
Regulates
blood pressure: Potassium present in almond helps to regulate blood
pressure. Almonds are very low in sodium that also helps in containing blood
pressure.
Prevention of cancer: Almond improves the movement of food
through the colon, thereby preventing colon cancer.
Protection
against diabetes: Almond also helps in reducing the rise in sugar and
insulin levels after meals. This offers protection from diabetes.
Good in pregnancy: Almond contains folic acid. Folic acid helps to ensure no
birth defects in newborn babies.
Reduce weight: Unsweetened almond
milk helps one to reduce weight. The mono-saturated fat contained in almonds
satisfies appetite and prevents over-eating. Studies have revealed that
almond rich low calorie diet is good for obese people to assist in shedding
their weight.
Avoids constipation: Almond contains fiber. Fiber rich
food help avoid constipation.
Boosts energy: The presence of
manganese, copper and Riboflavin helps in energy production.
You can
eat almonds directly, preferably eat with an empty stomach to ensure
absorption of their nutrients. You can soak them in water overnight and eat
in the morning. You can also garnish various dishes with crushed almonds.
Source: www.organicfacts.net
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