Why almonds are useful, properties and contraindications

In the UK, a handful of several almond nuts is a symbol of well-being and prosperity. In Switzerland, whoever comes across a nut in a Christmas cake is considered lucky. The United States celebrates National Almond Day. This is evidence of the special popularity of this type of nuts. The benefits and harms of almonds are a topic of ongoing controversy among nutritionists and diet planners.

How almonds grow

Almonds are the fruits of the almond tree, which also grows as a shrub. It belongs to the genus plum, therefore apricots and plums are considered related almond trees. The similarity of these species is evident in the structure of the fruit.

Almonds are the main value of the tree, its benefits for the human body are diverse. Its properties depend on which elements saturate the fruits. The nuts are enclosed in a pericarp husk, which is harvested after ripening. Several types of trees are distinguished by types of use:

1. Sweet... This species blooms in late spring with white and pink flowers. The fruits of this variety are used for food, they are used to prepare butter, milk, and are used in cooking.
2. Bitter... The variety is not eaten: its kernels are poisonous. It blooms with beautiful white flowers and is used as an ornamental type shrub. Essential oils of bitter almonds have a beneficial effect on the body's systems, to help improve the appearance of hair. They are used in the industrial production of cosmetics.
3. Fragile... This variety is considered the most valuable. The kernels are tasty, the shell is thin and easily removable. Growing this variety in artificial conditions is associated with some difficulties. The plant begins to bear fruit only at the end of the 8th year of its existence.

Almond trees are widespread along the Mediterranean coast in the United States. On the territory of Russia, they are found in the Crimea, the central regions of the Caucasus. They are thermophilic, cannot stand drought and strong winds. In southern Russia, the trees were brought in by the Greeks and are grown on an industrial scale. Trees begin to bloom in early spring: this sight leaves no one indifferent. The average life span of an almond tree is 130 years. During this time, it can bear fruit for about 50 years.

The chemical composition of almonds

Benefit or harm to humans depends entirely on the composition of almond nuts. The cores have a unique set of elements, which determines the further properties of products based on them:

• fatty oils of different types;
• proteins;
• slime;
• vitamins;
• carotonides;
• Sahara;
• alimentary fiber.

Among the vitamins, the content of representatives of group B is high: choline, folates. The content of vitamins C and E is noticeable, the content of vitamin PP is increased.

The most noticeable content of such macronutrients as: calcium, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus. Of the trace elements, the amount of iron, zinc, manganese is increased.

Essential amino acids are represented by arginine, thiazine, leucine. Of the nonessential amino acids, aspartic and glutamic have the highest rates. Palmetinic and steric acids are a class of saturated fatty acids. High levels of omega-6 fatty acids and linoleic acid.

Nutritional value and calorie content of almonds

The composition of the nut affects the increased calorie value. The fat content of the composition makes almonds a high-calorie product. Its nutritional value is calculated from the addition of the estimates of the fats it contains and is 597 kcal.

100 g contains about 20 g of protein, more than 50 g of fat and 15 g of carbohydrates.

Useful properties of almonds

The benefits and harms of almonds for the human body depend on what effect it has on the body systems:

1. First of all, contributing to the prevention of the development of cardiovascular diseases. This is due to the content of amino acids and flavonoid compounds. The benefit of the medicinal properties of almonds for people suffering from atherosclerosis lies in the ability to activate blood flow processes and ensure the absorption of tocopherol.
2. Carnitine, magnesium and B vitamins are able to increase brain activity and improve concentration. This property is used in planning meals for schoolchildren. They are offered nuts as a snack, which is beneficial when organizing meal breaks during the study process.
3. Natural antioxidants and increased vitamin E availability make the product beneficial for the conditions of nails, hair and skin.
4. Fatty acids help slow the rate at which glucose is released into the bloodstream, which is beneficial for regulating carbohydrate metabolism.
5. The content of dietary fiber has a positive effect on intestinal motility, the elements of the composition contribute to the assimilation of complex food chains. In addition, compounds of flavonoids and amino acids activate the processes of purification and elimination of toxins.
6. The increased content of vitamin E, as well as its compounds with zinc, selenium and other antioxidants in raw almonds, is an undoubted benefit for the prevention of cancer.

Micro and macronutrients have beneficial properties that are used to build bone muscle. These properties are especially useful for a growing organism, therefore it is often used in the nutrition of the younger generation.

The benefits of almonds for women

The combination of amino acids with omega-6 fatty acids endows it with beneficial properties to improve hormonal levels, emotional state during stressful situations. This property of almonds is beneficial for the female body.

B vitamins affect the condition of the skin, nails, hair. Kernels are actively used in cosmetology, used in home medicine. They not only have beneficial nutritional properties, but also act as a medicinal substance.

Why are almonds useful for men

The protein and fiber content makes kernels good for men. Compounds of the composition are used during periods of increased emotional and physical stress. The ability of almonds to saturate with nutrients has benefits for all systems of the male body.

Is it possible to almonds for pregnant and lactating

Almond nuts are beneficial for pregnant and lactating women and are indicated for intake. The only condition is moderate consumption, so as not to harm the woman and the unborn child.

Almond nuts are beneficial during pregnancy due to their high content of folic acid, which is one of the main elements involved in the formation of the fetus. Vitamin A contributes to the prevention of intrauterine malformations.

At what age can almonds be given to children

Despite the beneficial properties of the kernels, the product is not recommended for use by young children. This is due to the fact that the digestive system in children under 3-4 years of age is not fully formed. He is advised to be taken only when the child has developed a conscious attitude towards food. For adolescents and children of primary school age, almonds do not harm, they only benefit:

• in the formation of the musculoskeletal system;
• improving blood composition, normalizing blood flow;
• improving the quality of sleep;
• stabilization of metabolic processes in the body.

The introduction into the diet begins with minimal amounts, since nuts can become a food-type allergen and harm the child's body: reactions must be assessed in a timely manner.

The benefits and harms of almonds for some diseases

Eating in moderation may not be harmful, but there are a number of health conditions in which almond-based foods can be harmful.

With diabetes mellitus

Almond kernels help stabilize blood pressure and triglyceride levels.

Almonds have the ability to lower the level of bad cholesterol in the blood, this is its indisputable benefit. This ability is especially valuable for people who are in the very early stages of developing diabetes. Eating nuts and replacing some foods with them can help reduce the development of subsequent diabetic conditions.

For diabetes, excessive consumption of nuts, as well as snacks prepared with salt, are not recommended. These foods can be harmful to the body.

With diseases of the cardiovascular system

The benefits of almond kernels for patients with cardiovascular diseases are undeniable. Compounds of amino acids and antioxidants activate the work of the heart muscle. This leads to its strengthening and contributes to an increase in blood composition indicators. Dried almond kernels in the diet are beneficial for the process of inhibiting the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.

The almond tree nut is included in the rating of the most useful foods necessary for the health of the heart and blood vessels.

With pancreatitis

The health benefits and harms of almonds for diseases of the pancreas are concepts that exist at the same time. With an exacerbation of the disease, the nut can cause a choleretic effect, which harms the condition of the gland.

In a chronic course, almond-based products help regulate metabolic processes, calm the inflamed state of the pancreas, and remove toxins from the body.

For any type of pancreatitis, excessive intake of the product should be avoided.

Are almonds good for weight loss?

Many women are wondering whether the nut is beneficial for losing weight. It is believed that as a great nutritious snack with wine or cheeses, the nut can be harmful because it quickly becomes oversaturated.

However, there are widespread claims in the media about the benefits of almonds for weight loss.

To check their truth, it is enough to refer to the research carried out.

It has been found that snacking on a handful of nuts or adding them to salads have advantages over a carbohydrate menu of the same calorie content.

Thus, low-carb diets are more effective than low-fat diets. So, the whole point is not at all about fats.

There are also data from studies of people with type 2 diabetes, who included 100 g of almonds in their diet, while the control group replaced almonds with foods containing complex carbohydrates.Thus, identical diets differed only in carbohydrate and fat content. The results were surprising: the almond diet was more effective. The explanation for this "almond secret" is the theory that almond fiber has the properties to serve as a barrier to the absorption of excess nut fats, freeing the body from them.

In addition, the use of even a small amount of almonds has the beneficial effect of leaving a feeling of fullness for a long time. And the nutritional value due to high-quality proteins, fats and complex carbohydrates, the nutritional composition of such a supplement is well balanced and, like any product with a harmonious combination of BJU, is highly valued in dietary nutrition.

Almonds will also be useful in their pure form, without additives. This not only helps to control the amount of food eaten: mono-consumption of almonds up to 30 g as a snack has the beneficial property of stimulating the body's metabolic processes.

The use of almonds in cooking

Famous candies are made from marzipan mass - this is the main culinary direction in which almond flour is involved. An almond cream called frangipan is used to complement baked-based cakes or desserts.

For the marzipan mass, mix almond flour and sugar molasses. Then the mixture is glazed with chocolate, such sweets are called mozartkugel.

For marzipan cookies, mix almond flour with wheat flour.

The main ingredients for the flour are 2 types of nuts: bitter and sweet trees.

There are over 5 hundred museums dedicated to marzipan products around the world.

Where are almonds added and what is it combined with

The main use of almonds is in cooking:

• it is added to baking dough;
• decorate cakes and cookies;
• served as an appetizer with salt and pepper;
• used as flavoring agents for alcoholic beverages (the most famous product based on the infusion of seeds is the Amaretto liqueur);
• added to sauces, pasta, pates to give a nutty pronounced taste;
• combined with wine, cheese, grapes;
• used as a breading for meat and fish (after baking on steaks, an appetizing crust forms).

How to roast almonds

There are a few rules to follow before cooking almonds. Before cooking, the kernels are dipped in boiling water, then dried. This procedure helps to quickly and accurately free them from the husk. The dried nuts are laid out on the bottom of a thick-walled pan and fried for 10 - 12 minutes until lightly clicked. After cooling, use for further preparation.

How many almonds can you eat per day

Due to their high caloric value, almonds are not used in large quantities. Uncontrolled intake can harm the body.

For an adult, it is considered useful to use from 8 to 10 pieces daily.

Children need 5-6 nuts, which completely satisfies the feeling of hunger when having a snack between classes.

Raw almonds soaked in water prior to consumption are beneficial as a product that is quickly and easily absorbed.

How are almonds used in home cosmetology

The main ingredient used in beauty recipes is almond oil. It is purchased in pharmacies or prepared independently. The healing properties of almonds are widely used to treat, nourish the structure of hair and facial skin.

To prepare homemade peels, kernel-based flour is used:

• 2 tbsp. l. powder;
• 2 tbsp. l. honey;
• ¼ Art. l. orange juice.

Almond powder is taken with grains in order to achieve the desired structure. Peeling improves metabolic processes, helps to normalize blood flow. It is used to treat problem areas prone to cellulite.Almond flour is beneficial as a remedy that can not only activate blood flow, but also moisturize the skin due to its oil content.

Almond nourishing face mask

To prepare it, you need to take about 4 peeled almonds, pour in a third glass of boiled water, add chopped half of a cucumber at room temperature. Kill the resulting mass in a blender, add oatmeal - 2 tsp. and blue clay - 1 tsp. Mix thoroughly and massage onto face. The mask must be kept for 15 minutes, then washed off with cool water.

In addition to the nourishing effect, the mask is able to cleanse the skin well and make it matte.

The harm of almonds and indications for use

The harm of nuts occurs when overeating, oversaturation. Such processes can cause the appearance of extra pounds.

Nuts can cause allergic reactions, so people with individual intolerances to many foods should use them with extreme caution.

Frequently asked Questions

Along with disputes about the beneficial properties or dangers of almonds for the human body, questions are often asked about how to eat nuts. Which of its properties remain useful after heat treatment, and which may be lost.

Which almonds are healthier: raw or fried

When almonds are cooked using glazing, they become a separate independent dish that can not only saturate the body, but also enrich the taste sensations. When properly processed, roasted almonds do not lose their beneficial properties and remain as valuable as raw food.

Which nut is healthier: almonds or hazelnuts

The compositions of both varieties are rich in useful elements, contain sets of amino acids, vitamins, microelements. The almond variety has a high content of essential oils that have unique properties.

How to tell an almond from an apricot kernel

The problem of similarity between apricot kernels and almonds exists due to the fact that unscrupulous sellers in local markets practice partial or complete substitution of nuts, although their benefits and effects on the body are different. Outward similarity is adjacent to a complete taste difference.

There are several characteristics by which products are distinguished:

Almond stone has beneficial properties, apricot stone releases toxic substances during heat treatment, which can be harmful to health.

How to choose the right almonds when buying

When choosing, preference is given to those grains that meet several requirements:

• smooth, plain;
• rich smell;
• without damage, impurities.

How to store almonds at home

The peeled nuts are stored in the refrigerator or freezer. This method preserves its beneficial properties and prevents the formation of rancid taste.

Inshell almonds can be stored for more than a year, subject to storage rules.

Conclusion

The benefits and harms of almonds are issues that depend on what qualities the nut has, how it affects human health. When properly prepared, the beneficial properties of the nuclei have a unique effect: they help to normalize the processes of hematopoiesis, have a positive effect on the activity of the brain and expand the taste sensations.