4 Health Benefits of Almonds

Coming from the almond tree, almonds are a fruit that, in addition to being delicious, have several fantastic properties for our health, being a source of fiber, calcium, iron, vitamin E, protein, magnesium and polyunsaturated fatty acids.

So far we know that it is a nutritionally rich food, but do you know how these properties affect your health? Discover 4 reasons to include this oily fruit in your meals.

Discover our Traditional Pumpkin and Almond Sweet.

How to use Almonds

Almonds are a very versatile food and can be used as a simple snack to have on hand whenever hunger strikes, or to incorporate into recipes. Adding almonds to cakes or desserts helps reduce the speed at which sugar is absorbed and the associated spikes in blood sugar levels. Benefit from the fantastic properties of this oilseed while enjoying your favourite desserts and snacks. Take a look at some delicious dessert suggestions such as Pear, Almond and Port Wine Jam Pillows or Pumpkin and Almond Jam Pie. Use almonds in your snacks too, such as Pumpkin Pancakes with Pumpkin and Almond Jam or surprise your friends and family with some Starters.

1. Promotes weight loss

Although almonds are high in calories, if consumed in moderation, they can be an excellent ally for those who want to lose weight. As they are rich in fiber, they increase the feeling of fullness, thus helping to control appetite. Consuming just 28g of this fruit per day corresponds to around 14% of the daily fiber requirement.

2. Prevents cramps

A lack of magnesium, calcium and potassium makes us more susceptible to cramps. However, as almonds are rich in magnesium and calcium, they help with muscle contraction. Magnesium relaxes the muscle and calcium stimulates contractions.

3. Reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease

Since almonds are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, their regular consumption helps protect the body against cardiovascular diseases. Despite being a food rich in fats, they are considered healthy fats, which is why they help to reduce LDL cholesterol levels (bad cholesterol) and, in turn, increase HDL cholesterol levels (good cholesterol), and consequently reduce the risk of heart attacks.

4. Contributes to healthier skin

Almonds are rich in vitamin E, which in turn acts as an excellent antioxidant that protects the skin against UV rays and in turn prevents premature aging. In addition, vitamin E acts as a protective action on collagen proteins, essential for maintaining the elasticity and youthful appearance of the skin. Consuming 28g of almonds per day corresponds to approximately 37% of the vitamin E needed per day.