Thursday, January 28, 2010

Benefits of Almonds - 1

Benefits of Almonds

Super foods refer to items that have great performance and are packed with nutrients, like spinach and salmon. Almonds are another super food. Eating just a few almonds a day provides many benefits -- and they taste great, too.Rich in Nutrients

Almonds are a great source of Vitamins B2 and E, magnesium, and zinc. Vitamin E has been shown to fight the free radicals that come from stress and, in particular, heart disease. Although they are fatty, most of an almond is considered “good fat”—that is, unsaturated, and therefore heart-healthy. Some studies even show that almonds reduce cholesterol.

In addition, almonds are a great source of protein and fiber. As a result, eating only a few almonds will make you feel relatively full. They are almost a complete source of nutrition. A recommended serving is 1/3 cup, which amounts to 306 calories. Some people advise filling a bag with the recommended serving and taking it along to eat throughout the day.Almonds come in many palatable flavors, including smoked, honey-roasted, and frosted. While these are all great and offer the same health benefits, plain almonds are also delicious. Enjoy them with salads, baked goods, and a variety of other dishes. You might also consider trying almond butter, a highly recommended alternative to peanut butter, if you are trying to lose weight or generally improve your diet.