Almonds, since time immemorial, have been consumed not only for their unique sweet flavour but also for their numerous health benefits. In fact, experts count almonds as one of the most nutritional nuts of all. The more you increase its intake in your lifestyle, the more benefits you will avail.
Here is a lowdown on all the almond benefits ever known to the experts.
Almonds- The Nutritional Content
As mentioned above almonds are regarded as the healthiest nuts and the most well balanced food of all. It can be stated that the intake of every 35 gram of this dry fruit offers 7 grams of carbohydrates, 4.1 gram of dietary fiber, 7.6 grams of proteins, 18 grams of essential fat and 1.7 grams of sugar. Further to this, the said quantity of this nutritional nut contains 206 calories. Most of all, almonds and its foods contain zero cholesterol. No wonder, considering the almond benefits, they are most suitable for intake among patients with heart problems and cholesterol issues.
Health benefits of almonds
Reduces Cholesterol
Regular intake of almonds work towards increasing the level of the beneficial cholesterol, better known as High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) and reduces the deposits of unwanted cholesterol called Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL). This action is indeed regarded as the greatest almond benefits which shields the body from heart damages.
Regulates cardiovascular health
Nutrients, especially, mono-saturated fats, potassium and protein contained in these nuts are considered beneficial for the health of the heart. Further, the essential presence of Vitamin E acts as a potent anti-oxidant and thus relieves the body from the unwanted accumulation of toxins. This further prevents the deposits of plaque or toxins in the arteries connected to the heart. Keeping these almond benefits in mind, many doctors strongly recommend their intake during heart ailments.
Maintains blood pressure level
The potassium content present in almonds works effectively in regulating the blood pressure level in the body. Further, the lack of sodium does not affect the regulated blood pressure level.
Triggers Weight loss
An almond a day keeps those unwanted ounces away! The presence of mono-saturated fats essentially fills the appetite and do not get accumulated in the body to add on to the fats. Considering these almond benefits, dieticians suggest low calorie almond rich diet to shed those extra ounces.
Prevents cancer
One of the most important almond benefits is its tendency to help prevent the chances of inflicting cancerous cells in the blood. This is indeed a life saving benefit of almond! The intake of the nut essentially prevents the danger of colon cancer.
Beneficial for expecting women
There are numerous almond benefits for pregnant women. One of the most essential ingredients of the nut, folic acid, significantly reduces the risk of birth defects among the infants. It further counters the dangers of sugar and cholesterol throughout pregnancy.
Counter for diabetes
Popping in of a few almonds after every meal cuts down the sugar level and regulates insulin level in the body. This action is undoubtedly counted as one of the most effective almond benefits to regulate the health of the body. Many health care practitioners, for the same reason, suggest the intake of 3-4 almonds after every meal.
Sharpens brain
Indeed one of the most important almond benefits for kids, the nuts have the potential to sharpen the brain and enhance their memory. The numerous nutrients present in almonds further help in the right development of this body part. Since these nuts work wonders for enhancing the intellectual level, they are considered as the must-haves for growing children. Typically, the nuts must be soaked in water for 2-3 hours and then consumed for enhancing the memory.
Almond benefits for skin
The oil extracts of this nutritional nut is particularly used as an aromatherapy oil to massage the entire body. The best part is that the oil is suitable for usage for people with all the skin types. One of the most important almond benefits for the skin its revitalizing and complexion enhancement property. The oil is counted as an effective natural moisturizer which can easily replace high tagged chemical laden moisturizing creams and serums. The almond oil when applied on the skin further soothes inflammation and reduces rashes. Daily application of the oil reduces dark circles under the eyes as well.
Apart from the above, one of the most important almond benefits for the skin is its age defying property. The daily massage of the oil in the skin fights the seven signs of aging and keeps the skin supple and youthful. At last, many women use almond oil as a part of their daily skin care regime for the simple reasons of moisturizing and maintaining a natural glow on their skin.
Almond benefits for hair
Almond oil is an essential part of many hair care treatments given to those with damaged hair. The oil is laden with numerous nutrients which are considered essential for the proper conditioning of the hair follicles. Therefore, the daily massage of the hair with this beneficial oil tames the frizz, nourishes the hair and smoothes the uncontrollable cuticles. Further, the daily usage of this natural oil for hair makes the hair longer, stronger and shinier. According to experts, the oil especially counters the problem of hair thinning and makes them thick. The oil further works as a natural solution to the problem of hair fall.
For availing all the above mentioned almond benefits, it is important to make use of the oil in the right manner. Following tips can be considered while using the oil for its numerous hair benefits.
- Make sure to always heat the oil to a bearable temperature and then apply it over the hair.
- Apply a few drops of the oil on the roots of the hair and start massaging in the circular movements.
- Oil the hair starting from their root to the tip of the hair.
- Leave the oiled hair for 30 minutes before washing them off.
- Oil your hair with almond oil at least once a week.
Keeping in mind the umpteen medicinal values of almonds, they must be essentially included in the dietary regimes of both children and adults.
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