Almonds In a Nut Shell

by Geeta Bagga

Category: Things everyone should know…

In the past, almonds had been considered too fatty to be a healthy snack, but research has shown that these nuts actually lower blood cholesterol levels, prevent heart disease and can help with weight loss. Most people see almonds as nuts; however, almonds are actually seeds that stem from the fruits of almond trees. In fact, almonds are closely related to peaches; however, its fruit toughens up into a leathery cover known as the hull, which comes with the edible kernel and shell. Unlike peach pits, almond kernels are not just edible, but are also incredibly nutritious. These nutrient-packed nuts have been known to conquer any craving. I, myself eat a handful of almonds after a workout in the morning and am amazed of how much time goes by before I begin to feel peck-ish again.

Amongst several benefits, almonds have super powers to build muscles and fight cravings. Along with serving as secret weapons by providing a good source of protein, monounsaturated fats, Vitamin E, fiber, magnesium, and phosphorus, almonds also fight against enemies such as obesity, heart disease, muscle loss, wrinkles, cancer and high blood pressure. And last, almonds have been known to contain amygdaline (a.k.a. laetrile or vitamin B17), the controversial anti-cancer nutrient.

How to eat them? A good thing about almonds is that they are portable and you can enjoy them raw (soaked or not) or cooked. I enjoy my almonds in a shake blended with whole milk, crushed ice cubes, vanilla whey powder and a touch of cinnamon. Yummy! Just don't forget to leave the skin on as there are many nutrients within.

Other ways to enjoy almonds include: - Adding it to plain yogurt by mixing in some chopped almonds and dried fruit - Enhancing a healthy saute of curried vegetables with sliced almonds - Adding some almond butter to a breakfast shake to boost its taste and protein content - Almonds and apple slices make a wonderfully simple, on-the-go power snack - Making a cold rice salad with almonds, fresh garden peas and currants - Adding sliced almonds to chicken salad.

Even children can benefit from almonds for its fiber component. For example, try topping ice cream, frozen yogurt, or regular yogurt with whole-grain cereal, berries, or almonds for some added nutrition and crunch. With so many health benefits of almonds and its great taste, it is no wonder that more than two million tons of almonds are produced every year.

Now, wouldn't you say it's time to become nuts about almonds?

About Geeta Bagga: From Richmond Hill, Ontario, Geeta enjoys being a regular forum contributor for ChildsPlay101. Her work intends to inspire and inform parents of sources covering a variety of topics, with a focus on children.