BENEFITS OF ALMONDS (BADAM)

March 8, 2013 by  
Filed under Tips for Ayurveda

badam benefits almondsAlmonds are a quality protein source, an excellent source of vitamin E, a good source of dietary fiber, and offer a multitude of essential minerals, making them a smart choice as part of a healthy diet. Almonds are nutrient-dense.

Commonly known as Badam, almonds is loved by kids and elders and regular consumption improves health, memory and builds resistance to the body. Ayurveda recommends having almonds as a whole. Almonds should not be taken on an empty stomach , it should be accompanied with fruits or milk. Ideal for individuals with Vata dosha .

Almonds are a great cholesterol-lowering food

Nearly 70 per cent of the fat in almonds is monounsaturated – a suggested substitute to saturated fats to reduce the cholesterol levels. Research also shows that almonds and almond oil have similar cholesterol-lowering effects. In fact eating almonds consistently lowers total and LDL cholesterol respectively by four and five per cent. This cholesterol-lowering effect is similar to heart-healthy foods such as oats and soy.

Almonds help in fighting diabetes and heart diseases

The presence of powerful nutrients like proteins, dietary fiber, monounsaturated fatty acids [MUFA] and Vitamin E make almonds a rich diet source for combating degenerative diseases such as diabetes and heart diseases.

Almonds are ideal for Weight management

This aspect of almonds remains unknown to the consumers. People follow various diet plans and exercise regimes for weight management, ignorant of certain simple ways to shed those extra kilos. Weight management is a critical issue being faced by the Indian population, which can be attributed to the impact of an inactive lifestyle what with seating jobs and less limb movement that includes both adults as well as children these days. One of the most difficult tasks in the process of weight management is to control the type of food intake. There is a lack of information and awareness about the benefits and nutrient composition of the food we eat. Many essential and beneficial foods are avoided and Almonds is one of them.

Almonds are heart-friendly

In addition to offering “good” fat, nuts are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a nutrient powerhouse. Just a handful of these versatile almonds [one ounce or about 23 almonds] offer vitamin E, protein, fiber, magnesium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus and iron in only 163 Kcal. Moreover, almonds contain phyto chemicals – plant chemicals that provide powerful protection against heart disease, stroke, and other chronic diseases. Like all plant-based foods, almonds are also cholesterol-free.

Almonds can prevent cancer

A great example of nutritional synergistic power can be seen with the vitamin E in almonds (vitamin E is one of the most important vitamins one can consume). It enhances selenium’s cancer-preventing capability, protects against pollution, protects against cardiovascular disease, boosts the immune system and protects against neurological disorders.

A healthy and nutritious snack

Almonds can make a healthy nutritious snack. You can carry nutritious almonds easily in small containers as ready-to-eat snack at work and schools or can easily prepare delicious low caloric snacks . Add almonds in breakfast recipes, coolers, sharbat and Thandai. From heart disease to cancer, almonds are fighting for our good health.

Almonds is ideal for hair and ideal for baby massage

The composition of fats and fatty acids is very beneficial for almost all types of hair as it proves to be very nourishing, and softens and strengthens the hair. Recommended for baby massages. Sweet almond oil removes dandruff flakes, promotes hair growth, moisturizes skin especially during winter.

benefits of badamAlmonds can make a healthy nutritious snack. You can carry nutritious almonds easily in small containers as ready-to-eat snack at work and schools or can easily prepare delicious low caloric snacks . Add almonds in breakfast recipes, coolers, sharbat and Thandai. From heart disease to cancer, almonds are fighting for our good health.

You can make a good start for the day by opting for the powerhouse of nutrients. There are many advantages of having pre soaked almonds. There are many myths associated with presoaked almonds too. Do not give much importance to such references. Do not think twice , start the habit of consumption of badam in your morning schedule.