Almonds (Badam) – the king of Nuts

We have seen the medicinal benefits of many plants (Insulin plant, Bitter Gourd), leaves (Moringa), fruits (Grapes, Watermelon) and vegetables (Potatoes, Tomatoes, Onions, Green Peas) in previous posts. Now let us see how nuts can play a crucial role in our healthy living.

There are many nuts that we use daily for cooking but we will discuss only a few important nuts like Almonds, Cashews, Walnuts, and Pistachios in upcoming posts. Each of these have different health benefits.

Let us take Almonds now (or Badam in India, Persia etc.). 

Almonds are called world’s healthiest nut also sometimes the king of nuts. This delicious versatile almond is available throughout the year. 

Almonds are an ancient food – mainly from the Mediterranean regions (seems the Romans referred these as Greek nuts) extending all the way till the Indus. 

Although we think of Almonds as a Nut, it is actually the seed of the fruit of the almond tree.  Check out the nice white and pink flowers with fruit from an orchard in Iran.(Photo By: شهریار)

They are high in monounsaturated fats which are associated with reduced risk of heart diseases. A quarter cup of almonds contains 62 mg of magnesium and 162 mg of potassium. When there is enough magnesium around veins and arteries helps to breathe comfortably and improves flow of blood, oxygen and nutrients throughout our body. Potassium is an important electrolyte involved in nerve transmission and the contraction of all muscles including the heart.

Currently United States produces the maximum between 50% to 80% and all of it is produced in California. 

Almonds can be eaten as raw, roasted and also with many dishes. Almonds are used in various recipes, especially in bakery items like chocolate, breads and also used as medicine.  

Almond Tart  
Photo By: Lorraine Murphy

Almonds are rich in calcium which helps for bone strength. 

They are also high in vitamin E which helps the condition and appearance of skin. 

Since the skin of these nuts has got heart protecting compounds called Flavonoids, if you take Almonds with its skin, it will help to protect heart. (We also read about Flavonoids in Grapes and how they help reduce the Plaque buildup in arteries)

In Short, Almonds 

• Reduce the risk of Heart attack and lower bad cholesterol in our body. 
• Protect artery walls from damage due to their Flavonoid content. 
• Help to build strong bones and teeth because of phosphorous present in them 
• Lower the rise in blood sugar and insulin after meals 
• Help to nourish the nervous system. 

Just a handful of almonds contains one eighth of our necessary daily protein. 

Almond oil is extracted from the nuts used as an emollient (or moisturizer). If applied regularly it will help to protect the skin from dryness. This oil is used in cooking and is used in some medicines in aromatherapy. Also used in cosmetic industries and in pharmaceuticals.

Eat nuts to cut the risk of cancer and heart diseases. Eating nuts everyday may prolong our life. Better to take few almonds along with other nuts daily during your tea time.

Your comments about this post are welcome.