The 5 benefits of almonds that you would never have imagined
Among the various types of dried fruit, almonds are the most popular along with walnuts. They come from the almond tree of the same name, of the same family as the peach tree, which in spring is characterized by its beautiful white flowers and exceptional scent. However, almonds are not only famous for their goodness or beauty in the form of a tree, but also for their nutritional properties and the benefits they bring to those who consume them.
1. Almonds are not fattening
Probably, as a child, almost everyone had a weakness for candy: too sweet and too harmful to health. Although irresistible, they are not a good food habit and for a quick snack you have to choose something else.
For example, almonds.
Why eat almonds? Because a handful of almonds (23 to 25 whole almonds, unpeeled) only provides 160 calories. And that's not all, American researchers found that the body finally absorbs only 129 calories from this handful of almonds. In fact, the cells of whole almonds encapsulate the lipids, thus slowing down their absorption.
Bottom line: Eating 25 almonds a day is highly recommended.
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2. Almonds provide a lot of protein
Proteins are essential for our nutrition, they help to preserve muscle mass without gaining weight. However, it must not be abused: as always, it is a question of balance.
Until recently, when we talked about proteins, we immediately thought of a good steak, a fish fillet or even a nice omelette. However, proteins are also found in the plant world and almonds are an excellent natural source.
Furthermore, proteins produce less toxic waste for the body and, by integrating almonds in our daily menu, we reduce the intake of animal proteins, without however eliminating them.
3. Almonds contain "magic" fats
No, we are not exaggerating!
In fact, almonds are particularly rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, which increase good cholesterol by lowering bad cholesterol (the famous LDL).
Likewise, the lipids in almonds help regulate blood sugar levels. Thus insulin, which usually transforms sugars into fats, is hindered in its harmful action.
So yes, almond fat is very good for your health!
4.Almonds, a fountain of youth for skin and hair
Almonds help fight aging, but what does this mean specifically? It means that almonds are full of antioxidants, with vitamin E at the top of the list. So, by eating them regularly, your body is less affected by the effects of aging. : you will have more elastic skin, healthy hair and a more dynamic body. This fountain of youth for the skin and hair is also boosted by the proteins that almonds provide naturally. For this purpose, almond oil is also perfect, used more and more frequently in the beauty routine. In fact, it is a precious ally to nourish even the driest skin and to prevent or obtain the signs of stretch marks.
In addition, eating whole almonds increases the antioxidant effect thanks to the combination of vitamin E and the excellent flavonoids that almond peel contains. One serving of almonds covers 60% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin E and you will see the beneficial effect. also on bones, teeth and nails, which will be strengthened.
Finally, another addition: zinc. Almonds contain a large amount of this essential mineral for healthy skin and ready to fight oxidative stress.
Conclusion: eat almonds and you will age better and slower!
5. Almonds are friends of the intestine and the immune system
Do you know that the gut is your second brain?
Almonds contain very good micronutrients, such as manganese or copper, but above all they are an excellent source of fiber, both soluble and insoluble. They therefore promote satiety and facilitate intestinal transit. Almond is confirmed as an accomplice for a flat stomach!
Furthermore, this type of dried fruit, rich in vitamin E, has a beneficial effect in fighting free radicals by helping the immune system.
How to eat almonds?
As dried fruit, almonds can be consumed in various ways, for example, in powder, puree or as a tasty ingredient for different recipes, such as pasta topped with different sauces. However, the best way to eat almonds remains as natural as possible. That is, whole almonds should be preferred, with their peel. Chewing contributes to satiety, the molecules remain intact and are a perfect snack, easy to take anywhere.
Milk and oil: the alternative uses of almonds
If you think that almonds can only be eaten in the form of seeds to munch on during the day, you will have to change your mind. In fact, there are innumerable uses derived from almonds, among which oil and milk stand out. Both obtained from the pressing of almonds and both useful both in cooking and in cosmetics, these two products are much loved for their beneficial properties. organism from their use. But let's see them in more detail, distinguishing them:
> Almond oil: obtained from the cold pressing of almonds, this oil not only enhances our recipes, but also acts as a powerful antidote against constipation thanks to its laxative properties. As regards, however, its cosmetic use, we recommend using almond oil or, alternatively, ointments based on this ingredient, to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and, applied before going to bed, as a natural and effective solution against dark circles. In addition, if spread on the scalp, almond oil strengthens the hair and counteracts its fall.
> Almond milk: easily digestible, low in calories and extremely tasty, almond milk is not only an irresistible drink but also an important ally of our body. Consumed regularly, it improves the functioning of our intestines and is particularly suitable for the diet. vegetarian and vegan, being a product of vegetable origin. Furthermore, in Mediterranean regions such as Sicily, Calabria and Puglia, it is customary to serve it, especially in the summer months, in the form of tasty granita. Like oil, even milk of almonds has significant benefits from a cosmetic point of view: being rich in vitamin B2, it performs a "moisturizing action on skin and hair and, moreover, it also acts as an effective make-up remover. Without considering that, being equipped with a high content of vitamin And, almond milk dramatically slows down the cell aging process, keeping skin looking younger for a long time.
Recommended daily allowance of almonds
Although, as we have been able to ascertain in the previous paragraph, almonds have a very low calorie intake and, for this reason, they can be consumed as an integral part of our daily diet without too many worries, it is good not to overdo it. In this regard, it should be emphasized that the recommended daily dose of these oil seeds must not exceed 40 g, a weight corresponding to a quantity of almonds equal to 20/25, otherwise the calories would no longer be so negligible and furthermore the abuse could result harmful to those suffering from certain ailments.
Can the peel of almonds be eaten?
After having listed all the benefits that the consumption of this dried fruit can bring to our body in terms of health and well-being, it is good to make a clarification: although some prefer them shelled, the almond peel is undoubtedly edible. The peel, in fact, is a component of the almond with particularly beneficial qualities: thanks to its high fiber content, this coating increases the nutritional properties of the almond fruit, making it a truly precious food to be included in our diet.
