Health Benefits of Almonds
- Author :
- TATA AIG Team
- ●
- Last Updated On :
- 23/05/2024
Almonds, also known as Badam, have been revered for centuries for their nutritional value and health benefits. These nuts have garnered significant attention in modern health circles.
Almonds are packed with essential nutrients. They are rich in healthy fats, protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. The health benefits of almonds range from promoting heart health to aiding in weight management.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of eating badam daily, which is supported by scientific research. We will find out why incorporating almonds into your diet can contribute to a healthier and happier you.
Nutrients in Almonds
Almonds are a versatile nut. Every 100 grams of almonds contains 579 calories. Let us explore the nutritional value of almonds.
Nutritional Benefits of Almonds (Per 100 Grams)
Protein | 21.15 g |
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Fat | 49.93 g |
Carbohydrate | 21.55 g |
Fibre | 12.50 g |
Sugar | 4.35 g |
Minerals in Almonds
Calcium | 269 mg |
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Iron | 3.71 mg |
Magnesium | 270 mg |
Phosphorous | 481 mg |
Potassium | 733 mg |
Sodium | 1 mg |
Zinc | 3.12 mg |
Selenium | 4.1 µg |
Vitamins in Almonds |
|
Vitamin E | 25.63 mg |
Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid | 0 mg |
Thiamin | 0.205 mg |
Riboflavin | 1.14 mg |
Niacin | 3.62 mg |
Pantothenic acid | 0.471 mg |
Vitamin B-6 | 0.137 mg |
Folate | 44 µg |
Health Benefits of Almonds
Almonds are loaded with health benefits. Let us explore some of the almond benefits for men and women.
Almonds Reduce Cholesterol
Almonds can elevate your red blood cell's Vitamin E levels and lower cholesterol risks. This boost in vitamin E creates antioxidants that prevent cell clogging. They can reduce levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and increase HDL (good) cholesterol.
They also possess anti-inflammatory properties that protect against heart disease. Consuming a handful of almonds daily can increase vitamin E levels in your bloodstream. And it can protect you from cholesterol issues.
Almonds are Good for Your Heart
Combining almonds with other nuts is also considered beneficial for heart health. They have unsaturated fatty acids that are said to improve artery health and reduce inflammation related to heart disease.
Nuts also have other nutrients. They also lower the risk of high blood pressure and keep unhealthy cholesterol in check. Individuals who consume almonds regularly have higher antioxidant levels in their bloodstream.
It reduces blood pressure and enhances blood flow. A Mediterranean diet rich in nuts is also said to offer additional health benefits.
Almonds Regulate Blood Sugar
Almonds are rich in Magnesium. They are known to help regulate and stabilise blood sugar levels due to their magnesium content. You may consume about a handful of almonds daily.
For individuals with type 2 diabetes, almonds play a crucial role in stabilising blood sugar levels. This is because almonds can help improve insulin resistance. It is beneficial for those with diabetes, thanks to their magnesium content.
Almonds Can Help Control Blood Pressure Levels
Inadequate magnesium levels can lead to high blood pressure. It may lead to heart attacks. It also increases the risk of strokes and kidney failure. Almonds are rich in magnesium.
Eating almonds can help you meet the recommended daily magnesium intake. It can effectively help manage blood pressure. If your body lacks magnesium, you may include almonds in your diet.
Almonds Have High Vitamin E
Almonds are rich in Vitamin E. It is an antioxidant that shields your cells from toxicity. A higher amount of vitamin E intake can lower the risk of Alzheimer’s, cancer, and heart disease.
However, it's important to moderate your vitamin E intake, as excessive amounts can increase the risk of prostate cancer. Consume the recommended amount of daily servings and avoid excess intake.
Almonds Reduce Weight
Almonds are rich in protein and fibre and they are low in carbohydrates. Despite being calorie-dense, almonds are rich in protein, fibre, and healthy fats. These nuts help curb appetite and reduce cravings.
Their ability to suppress appetite helps in managing weight by allowing better control over food intake. If you are on a weight-loss diet, you may eat a few almonds every day.
However, portion control is necessary. If you consume a serving of almonds, you can lower your daily calorie intake.
Almonds are Rich in Nutrients
Almonds are a nutrient-based food containing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are particularly rich in vitamin E, which is beneficial for skin health and acts as a powerful antioxidant.
Almonds are also a powerful source of magnesium, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function. Additionally, almonds are high in healthy fats, protein, and fibre. These nuts can be a satisfying and nutritious snack option.
Almonds are Good for Your Eyes
Almonds are rich in vitamin E. They play an important role in eye health, protecting them from age-related damage. They protect the eyes from abnormal changes in the lens.
Vitamin E may also help prevent cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
Consuming almonds in moderation can protect your eyes. However, if you eat almonds in excessive amounts, it may lead to weight gain. It's important to enjoy almonds in moderation to reap their eye-protecting benefits.
Almonds Have a Rich Source of Antioxidants
Almonds are packed with antioxidants that help combat stress-induced damage, which can lead to inflammation, cancer, and premature ageing. These antioxidants also benefit the skin, promoting a healthy complexion.
Consuming 84 grams of almonds daily can significantly increase antioxidant levels in the body, offering protection against ageing and various diseases.
Almond Nourishes Skin
Scientific evidence suggests that almonds contribute to positive skin health. Their richness in vitamin E provides antioxidant protection. It combats the deleterious effects of free radicals.
Also, the healthy fats in almonds promote moisture retention. It potentially leads to a more supple and youthful appearance.
Almonds Prevent Cancer
Almonds contribute to digestive health through their significant fibre content. This fibre facilitates the smooth passage of food through the gastrointestinal tract. It potentially aids in the detoxification process of the body.
Also, studies suggest a correlation between dietary fibre intake and a reduced risk of colon cancer. Almonds have an abundance of vitamin E and flavonoids. These antioxidants may play a role in regulating breast cancer development.
Almonds Improve Your Brain Power
Incorporating almonds into your diet can offer almond benefits for brain health.
Almonds contain L-carnitine and riboflavin. These are nutrients that contribute to brain cell growth. Phenylalanine is another key component present in almonds that is responsible for cognitive function.
Consuming a moderate serving of almonds, such as five nuts each morning, may be beneficial for supportive cognitive function. However, more research is required to fully understand the extent of these effects.
Almonds Can Help Treating Anaemia
Haemoglobin production in the body is one of the almond benefits for women. Anaemia is caused by the lack of oxygen-carrying red blood cells. It may happen due to many reasons.
Almonds contain a small amount of iron and copper, and they play an important role in haemoglobin production. It is said that consuming a few almonds in a day can help prevent anaemia.
Almonds are Good for Your Nerves
Almonds are a good source of magnesium. It is a mineral that offers various health benefits. Magnesium helps in the healthy function of the nervous system. It may also play a role in promoting a healthy metabolic rate. Also, magnesium helps in developing bone tissue. It is said to offer more health benefits than peanut butter.
Almonds Treat Acne and Blackheads
Almonds are considered good for fighting and preventing acne, blackheads and whiteheads. The fatty acids found in them help in controlling the oil that gets clogged in these skin pores.
One of the uses of almonds is applying almond oil on the skin. It reduces skin rashes. You can also eat a few almonds every day for healthy and blemish-free skin.
Almonds Treat Stretch Marks
Almonds come with a lot of health benefits. Almond oil also has a lot of benefits like treating stretch marks. You can heat almond oil, apply it on your stretch marks, and then leave it on for about an hour. It prevents the skin from tearing. Applying the oil twice on the skin may show you some improvement in the affected area.
Almonds Prevent Grey Hair
Almond oil is a highly beneficial treatment for a wide range of hair issues. Studies have shown almond oil to be a beneficial emollient for hair health. It possesses properties that may address various scalp conditions and hair concerns. You may use it for hair fall and premature greying.
Applying almond oil is also effective against dandruff and various other hair problems. One of the key advantages of using almond oil for your hair is its ability to impart a silky and shiny texture. Its versatility offers natural solutions to common hair concerns.
Almonds Help in Hair Growth
Almonds are rich in magnesium. It is a mineral that aids hair health. A magnesium deficiency can lead to hair loss. So, the magnesium content in almonds is particularly beneficial.
Consuming almonds can help promote fast hair growth and strengthen hair strands. You can enjoy the advantage of soaked almonds. Include almonds in your diet to support your hair's health and encourage its growth.
Almonds are Natural Anaesthetics
Almond oil can serve as a valuable anaesthetic in medical procedures such as stitching wounds or tooth extraction. It contains glycoside amygdalin, a toxic compound that desensitises nerves.
When applied in the affected area, it provides a numbing effect. However, please note that you should only use bitter almond oil for its anaesthetic properties and not for other purposes due to its toxicity.
Almonds Increase Mental Alertness
If you mix almonds with mink, they become rich in potassium. It increases the body’s electrolyte levels and boosts energy. An increase in electrolyte count also enhances memory function.
So, drinking almond milk can be beneficial for having a sharper memory. You should also consume almonds after soaking them in water for a few hours and then removing the skin.
Almonds Prevent Birth Defects
Almonds are rich in folic acid, which plays a vital role in preventing birth defects in newborns. Folic acid supports healthy cell growth and is essential for the development of the foetus. Pregnant women who include almonds in their diet can help safeguard their babies against birth defects.
Risks Associated with Consuming Almonds
Even though there are a lot of almond benefits for womens and men. These nuts have some drawbacks too, if consumed excessively. Here are some of the known risks associated with almond consumption.
Nausea: Eating too many almonds at once can overwhelm your digestive system. It may lead to nausea and other digestive issues. Also, individuals with almond intolerance may get nausea, bloating, and stomach cramps.
Vomiting: Those who are intolerant to almonds may experience vomiting after consuming almonds.
Difficulty in Swallowing: Those with nut allergies should avoid almonds as they can cause reactions like difficulty swallowing and swelling of the throat, which can be fatal.
Diarrhoea or Digestive Problems: Eating too many almonds can cause digestive problems like bloating, gas, or diarrhoea due to their high fibre content.
Shortness of Breath: Individuals who are allergic to almonds may develop difficulty breathing after eating them.
Allergies: Some individuals may be allergic to almonds. They may develop symptoms such as itching, swelling, or hives after consuming almonds.
Please Note: If you are allergic to almonds, you should entirely avoid consuming almonds. Also, if you are not sure about being allergic to almonds and if you develop any of the symptoms mentioned above, immediately seek consultation from a healthcare professional.
How to Manage Almond Allergies
If you are allergic to almonds or some other nuts, you must avoid consuming them. However, if you accidentally consume them in the form of other food items and develop any allergic symptoms, you must seek a doctor’s consultation. In any case, having information on almond allergies will help tackle them.
Almond allergies are generally divided into two categories. The primary allergy is more common. It occurs when the body reacts negatively to the food itself. This type of allergy can be severe. It may also lead to anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening reaction.
The less common secondary allergy occurs due to cross-reactivity. It happens if an individual is allergic to substances like birch pollen, a common hay fever allergy.
The reaction to almonds is triggered by a cross-reaction with specific chemicals in the nut. Unlike primary allergies, secondary allergies are less severe. It has symptoms like itching, mouth swelling, and hives.
Conclusion
Almonds, or Badam, are a powerhouse of nutrients. They offer numerous health benefits. They are rich in essential nutrients like protein, healthy fats, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. The nutritional value of almonds spans improving heart health, regulating blood sugar levels, and aiding in weight management.
However, consuming almonds excessively can lead to allergies and digestive issues. It is essential to consume almonds in moderation and also be aware of any allergic reactions.
Incorporating almonds into your diet can be a simple and effective way to enhance your overall health and well-being.
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FAQS
How many almonds per day can I eat or how many badam to eat per day?
There are a lot of health benefits of almonds. You can consume around 20 almonds (badam) a day to get the necessary nutrients.
What if I eat 20 almonds a day?
A serving of about 1 to 1.5 oz, which is about 20 almonds, is good enough to meet the nutritional needs of an individual.
What are the 5 health benefits of almonds?
Almonds are known to offer a lot of health benefits if you consume them in moderation every day. These crunchy nuts are good for promoting heart health, blood sugar control, weight management, skin health and bone health.
Can almonds help improve memory?
Nutrients like vitamin E, folate, and antioxidants are found in almonds. These components are believed to aid in brain health. Almonds are also believed to contribute to cognitive function and memory. However, more research is required to establish its relevance in this regard.
Do almonds have anti-inflammatory properties?
Yes, almonds contain compounds like flavonoids, vitamin E, and magnesium. These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming almonds as a part of a balanced diet may help reduce inflammation in the body.
Are there any benefits of soaking almonds before eating them?
Soaking almonds overnight and removing their skin before eating is a common practice. This process is believed to make the almonds easier to digest and may increase nutrient absorption. However, there needs to be more scientific evidence to support such claims.
Disclaimer: This is a general guide on the health benefits of almonds (Badam). It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. It is advisable to consult a qualified health professional for treatment in severe cases.
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