The Nut That’s Not So Nuts
Did you know that almonds are the only nut that’s also a fruit? That’s right, almonds are the seeds of a fruit called the almond tree. So next time you’re eating almonds, you can think of them as a healthy snack that’s also a fruit. Just don’t try to eat the whole tree.
Almonds are a type of nut that is native to the Middle East and Mediterranean region. They are a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Almonds are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium.
Almonds can be eaten raw, roasted, or ground into almond butter. They are a popular ingredient in many dishes, including cookies, cakes, and salads.
Here are some of the health benefits of almonds:
- Reduced risk of heart disease: Almonds are a good source of monounsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Improved blood sugar control: Almonds can help improve blood sugar control by slowing down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream.
- Weight loss: Almonds can help you feel full and satisfied, which can help you eat less and lose weight.
- Improved skin health: Almonds contain vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that can help protect the skin from damage caused by the sun and pollution.
- Reduced risk of cancer: Almonds contain antioxidants that can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to cancer.
Almonds are a healthy and versatile nut that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are a good source of nutrients and can help improve overall health.
Here are some tips for choosing and storing almonds:
- Choose almonds that are plump and have a smooth skin. Avoid almonds that are shriveled or have blemishes.
- Almonds can be stored at room temperature for up to 6 months. Once they are opened, they should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer.
Benefits:
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Lowers the risk for heart attacks.
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Lowers bad cholesterol.
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Builds strong bones and teeth.
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Aids weight loss.
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Lowers the rise in blood sugar after meals.
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Provides good brain function.
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Alkalize the body.
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Nourishes the nervous system. (Source: http://www.care2.com/greenliving/8-health-benefits-of-almonds-king-of-nuts.html?page=1)
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Rich in various vitamins, minerals and proteins.
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Good for maintaining cell membrane integrity.
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Almond oil is a good emollient that prevent skin from drying. (Source: http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/almonds.html)
Interactions of almond:
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Co- administration with high dose of vitamin C can cause cyanide toxicity.
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Intake of laetrile an almond derivative and bitter almonds can result in cyanide poisoning. (Source: http://www.drugs.com/npp/almond-almond-oil.html)
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Almonds can interact with anti – psychotic drugs, laxatives, antibiotics, antacids and blood pressure medications.
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Can easily result in vitamin E overdose.
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Has high oxalate content, can worsen kidney and gall stones. (Source: http://www.md-health.com/Eating-Too-Many-Almonds.html)
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Can interact with anti – diabetic medications.
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Can interact with cholesterol lowering medications.
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Can interact with drugs taken for fertility and estrogen activity. (Source: http://www.sharecare.com/health/health-value-of-foods/what-medications-interact-sweet-almond)
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Almonds can become allergic to susceptible individuals.
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Too much almonds intake can cause stomach bloating and distress.
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Increase in the amount of manganese due to high intake of almonds can result in nerve damage. (Source: http://www.caloriesecrets.net/side-effects-from-eating-too-many-almonds/)
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Found to significantly reverse the effects of scopolamine – induced amnesia. (Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2937319/)
Health conditions to avoid almonds:
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Must be avoided by people taking anti- diabetic medications.
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Must be avoided by people with known allergy to almonds. (Source: http://www.lnhealthmarket.com/ns/DisplayMonograph.asp?StoreID=5FACC5A9BC8A4364B7EA18335DCC9762&DocID=bottomline-sweetalmond)
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Children should avoid bitter almonds because of potential toxicity.
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Pregnant and feeding mothers must avoid bitter almonds. (Source: http://www.livingnaturally.com/ns/DisplayMonograph.asp?StoreID=E32FA6C399AB4C99897032581851D45D&DocID=bottomline-bitteralmond)
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People prone for kidney or gall stones must avoid almonds. _(Source: https://www.healthtap.com/topics/almond-nuts-cause-kidney-stones)
Photo by Kafeel Ahmed: https://www.pexels.com/photo/brown-almond-nuts-on-white-plate-3997459/
NOTE: The information on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified medical professional. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please consult a doctor. We do not endorse any specific products or treatments, and we do not claim to cure or treat any medical conditions. The information on this website is based on our own research and experience, and we cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness. View the full disclaimer here
