A recent study has shown that there may be some pretty big upsides to adding some almonds to your diet.
The Study
According to a Harvard study published this year, you may want to swap your morning muffin with a nice handful of crunchy almonds. Almonds are known to have significant health benefits, but this study has shown that it may have a particularly ability to protect your heart from heart disease in the future.
The researchers analyzed 82 people diagnosed with higher than normal levels of LDL cholesterol, also known as “bad cholesterol.” They had them follow one of two diets aimed at lowering their cholesterol: one that either included 1.5 ounces of almonds, or a simple muffin with an equal number of calories. The participants followed this diet for six weeks, and then switched their diets for an extra six weeks.
In comparison to the muffin diet, those who consumed the almonds had a preferable distribution of “good cholesterol,” (subtypes of HDL cholesterol). The subtypes seen in the almond group particularly improve the body’s capacity to remove bad cholesterol from our bloodstreams, therefore reducing the risks of high blood pressure, strokes or heart attacks.
It’s important to note, however, that these results were only seen in people who were not obese or even just overweight.
What Else Do Almonds Do?
Almonds have also been associated with several other health benefits in the past. Many studies have found a link between almond consumption and preventing cognitive decline. This is why many elderly people are encouraged to include almonds in their diets.
Another benefit is how good it is for your skin. They’re a good source of Vitamin E, as well as other antioxidants known to nourish your skin, reducing signs of aging. They also have high concentrations of compounds that have been associated with anti-cancer effects, including isorhamnetin, quercetin and kaempferol.
Find out how many creative ways there are of including almonds in your meals and have fun while staying healthy!