Almonds are the edible seeds and powerhouse of various nutrients. They are native to Iran, but now the US is the world’s largest producer. The other leading producers are Spain, Australia, and Iran. Almond is not a nut but a drupe, consisting of an outer hull and a hard shell with the seed. They can be stored over time. The almond tree flourish in a moderate climate with cool winter weather. The almond is a deciduous tree growing to 4–12.2 metres in height with a trunk of up to 30 centimetres in diameter. It’s flowers are like white to pale pink colour. Apart from this almonds have countless health benefits.

Health benefits:

• Almonds can reduce cholesterol levels: Almonds is very effective in lowering LDL cholesterol(“bad” cholesterol). It also helps boost or maintain levels of high-density lipoprotein HDL (“good” cholesterol)
• Almonds regulate blood sugar: Almonds contains high amount of magnesium. It may help prevent metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.
• Helps control blood pressure levels: Almonds are packed with magnesium. It helps control blood pressure effectively.
• Almonds help manage weight: Almonds contains high fibre, proteins and lower levels of carbohydrates. Consuming almonds daily helps in reducing the number of calories. Studies showed that it will also reduce hunger and the desire to eat.
• Almonds & vitamin E: Almonds are rich in vitamin E. It contains antioxidants named tocopherol. It helps to reduce the risk of cancer.
• Almonds are good for eyes: The vitamin E in almonds protect the eyes and prevents abnormal changes to the lens. 
• Boost bone health: Almonds are rich in calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper, vitamin K, protein, and zinc. It helps to improve the bone health.
• Almonds are good for anaemia: Almonds contain copper, iron and vitamins that helps in producing more haemoglobin and prevent anaemia.

Nutritional facts of almonds(28gram):

• Fiber: 3.5 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Fat: 14 g (9 of which are monounsaturated)
• Vitamin E: 48% of the daily value (DV)
• Manganese: 27% of the DV
• Magnesium: 18% of the DV
• a decent amount of copper, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), and phosphorus

FAQ’s

How many almonds can I eat in a day?

Almonds contains a massive amount of nutrients. As per the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, it’s ideal to take 23 almonds a day. ·

What is the need to consume soaked almonds?

Soaked almonds are rich in energy-boosting nutrients like B vitamins, magnesium, and healthy fats. It also helps to digest easily. Almond has tannin skin that obstruct the absorption of nutrients. Moreover it is easy to peel the almonds when they are soaked in lukewarm water. 

Is almond good for brain?

Almonds contain L-carnitine and riboflavin that helps in the growth of brain cells. The chemical phenylalanine helps brain

What is the best time to eat almonds?

It is better to have almonds as a mid-meal snack.

What are the side effects of almonds?

Almonds are good for the health. But it can also be very dangerous if it is excessively consumed. Here listed some of the de-merits in case of consuming almonds in excess