ALMONDS

DESCRIPTION

Almonds are the edible seeds of, more commonly called the almond tree. They are native to the Middle East, but the US is now the world’s largest producer of almonds. The almonds you can buy in stores usually by removing the shell, and revealing the edible nut inside. They are sold in the market either raw or roasted. These are the most popular nuts in the United States. Almonds become famous for their versatility and health benefits.  Almonds have extensively benefited heart health, diabetes, and weight management. 

NUTRIENTS VALUE

• Carbs in Almonds – Almonds are a good source of fiber and lower glycemic index than other nuts making them a good choice for people on low-carb diets. 
• Fats in Almonds – Almonds are high-fat foods, providing about 22 percent of the daily amount of fat in a single ounce. Most of the fat found in almonds is monounsaturated fat, which has cardio-protective properties. 
• Protein in Almonds – Almonds are a good source of protein, containing small amounts of all the essential and non-essential amino acids. 
• Micronutrients in Almonds – Almond contains 37% of vitamin E, 8% calcium, and 6% of iron. Vitamin E has antioxidant properties and supports immune function. Calcium play important role in maintaining the structure of teeth and bones. 

BENEFITS

• Help in digestion – Almonds are a great source of fiber. Eating a handful of almonds or drinking a glass of almond milk can prevent constipation. Almonds help to promote healthy bacteria in your gut which helps in digest your food and fight off illness.
• Moisturizing skin – For people with dry, flaky skin, a cream or lotion that contains almonds cure these symptoms by providing healthy fats which help to keep skin supple. Almonds also help in glowing skin by giving a punch of vitamins A and E in the body.
• Protect from heart disease – Vitamin E present in almonds can keep your heart well. Increase intake of high vitamin E in the diet is linked with lower rates of heart disease. 
• Add Shine to Dull Hair – In winter dry air left brittle hair, apply oil which is rich in almond helps to strengthen hair and add texture. When you use hair products rich in almond oil, the fats absorb into your hair, keeping each strand of your hair strong and shiny.
• Promote Healthy Cells – Almonds are not packed with healthy fats and protein, but they are also rich in antioxidants. These plant compounds protect your cells from oxidation and premature aging.
• Low cholesterol – Almonds are one of the best foods that naturally lowering cholesterol. Most studies revealed that eating almonds can lower LDL or “bad” cholesterol levels. They are also quick and convenient, so you will never have to rely on vending machine food for a snack.
• Reduce the risk of diabetes – Start your day with a bowl of cereal sprinkled with almonds in your breakfast. Eating almonds with cereal slows down the absorption of the carbohydrates in the cereal, this effect from the protein and fats in almonds lower the risk for developing high blood sugar and diabetes.
• Lower blood pressure – Almonds are rich in magnesium which helps to lower your blood pressure. Low magnesium levels in your body can put you at risk for high blood pressure. Add magnesium-rich foods to your diet like almonds can protect you from blood pressure.
• Almonds can aid in weight regulation – The consumption of almonds has been reduced by BMI and waist measurements. In addition, almond is full of protein, and fiber boosts feelings of fullness and delays the return of hunger. Almonds actually contain about 20% fewer calories than the labels state.
• Good for skin – Good fats support maintain healthy skin, but almonds actually help to maintain healthy skin when it comes to skin aging. People who eat Almond continuously decreased wrinkle severity and width compared to the non-almond eaters.

ALMOND SIDE EFFECTS

• Constipation – Almonds are rich in fiber though this is good, but excess intake of fiber can lead to constipation and cause gastrointestinal issues if not combined with enough water intake. Gastrointestinal symptoms caused by excess intake of almonds are bloating, gas, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
• Decreased nutritional absorption – The excess fiber in almond can bind with minerals like calcium, magnesium, zinc, and iron and interfere with their absorption in the bloodstream. 
• Allergy – Almonds may cause oral allergy syndrome in some people. The symptoms include an itchy mouth, swelling of the tongue, scratchy throat, and, mouth, and lips. Almond may cause much severe allergy reaction called anaphylaxis. 
• Renal stone – Almonds are rich in intestinal soluble oxalates, which may contribute to renal failure and kidney stones.
• Increase toxins in the body – Almonds, especially bitter in versions, can cause cyanide poisoning. In bitter almonds the HCN level forty times higher as compared to sweet almonds. After enzymatic hydrolysis, hydrocyanic acid may lead to breathing issues, choking, nervous breakdown, and even death. Therefore they are a strict prohibition for pregnant and lactating women.