Health Benefits of Almonds - These Nuts Are Chock-Full of Nutrition

Almonds health benefits are almost too numerous to mention, but I will do my best to sum up in this article just what this nutrient-dense nut brings to the table in terms of the positive impact they can have on your diet and nutrition.

Nuts have gotten a bad rap in the past due to their high fat content. While it is true that they contain significant fat content, don't let that scare you off. Not all fat is created equal and almonds contain monounsaturated "heart healthy" fats that are actually beneficial if consumed in moderation. The fats found in these nuts is actually quite similar to those found in olive oil.

Nuts are chock full of protein and contain many beneficial vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, an antioxidant that has been theorized to reduce the risk of heart disease. Rich in essential minerals like magnesium and potassium, which help improve blood flow, muscle contraction and nerve transmission. Eating just a quarter cup of almonds a day will give you nearly 50% of your recommended daily intake of magnesium. They also contain calcium, selenium, zinc, iron, copper and tryptophan. Research shows that almonds may also be helpful in lowering LDL cholesterol levels, and may protect against both diabetes and heart disease.

If that isn't enough almonds are also rich in omega-6 fatty acids that play an important role in both brain and heart function. Their skins alone contain as many as 20 antioxidant flavonoids that may favorably impact the body's immune system as well as reducing the effects of aging.

Like most foods, almonds are healthiest when eaten as a whole food, in an unaltered state. Raw almonds, with their skins intact are the best way to enjoy all the nutritional benefits this miraculous nut has to offer. If you find them too bland when eaten alone then try adding them into a trail mix with raisins and seeds, or stir them into your cereal or oatmeal. This is far more beneficial than eating the smoked, salted or candied almonds whose high sodium and/or sugar content basically negates all the benefits of eating these nuts in the first place.

If you are looking for a treat, try dark chocolate covered almonds. These tasty treats get an extra antioxidant punch from the dark chocolate. Be sure to eat these in moderation though! If you are counting calories even just three or four will have a significant impact on your daily count.

As you can see the health benefits of almonds make this nut a must for just about anyone’s diet. Eaten in moderation they can have a positive impact on your health without having a negative impact on your waistline.