What is in almonds. Daily intake of nuts

Almonds have been a symbol of beauty, purity and marital happiness since ancient times. Since the tree is one of the first to bloom, it is associated with spring, renewal and the beginning of something new.

The plant originates in Asia. To date, it has expanded its borders, and its fruits are brought to us, both from the United States and from Italy, Spain, Syria and Iran. The almond tree belongs to the Rosaceae family. He likes sunny space and a temperate climate, soil rich in moisture, with enough calcium. The peculiarity is that the tree bears fruit only a third of its life - 50 years. There are over 40 varieties of almonds, growing on both bushes and trees. The leaves are long and narrow, oblong in shape. A very beautiful flowering process: the flowers have a soft pink color and resemble Japanese sakura, which gives the impression of a spring festival.

The composition of vitamins and useful properties

Almonds contain the following vitamins and minerals:

• vitamins A (0.25 mg), B1 (0.06 mg), B2 (0.65 mg), B3 (6.2 mg), B5 (0.04 mg), B6 ​​(0.3 mg), B9 (0.04 mg), C (1.5 mg), E (24 mg);

• potassium (748 mg);
• phosphorus (473 mg);
• calcium (273 mg);
• magnesium (234 mg);
• sulfur (178 mg);
• chlorine (39 mg);
• sodium (10 mg);
• iron (2.1 mg);
• zinc (2.1 mg);
• manganese (1.9 mg);
• copper (0.14 mg).

Almond grains are usually divided into sweet and bitter. Sweet almonds are usually eaten. It contains a little more than 50% fatty oils, 10% of which are saturated fats that are harmful to the body.

The rest of the mass is monounsaturated fats, useful for the body.

The chemical composition of almonds is rich in minerals. This amount of calcium is not found in any other type of nuts. Almonds are also rich in potassium, magnesium and zinc.

The use of almonds for the prevention and treatment of diseases:

1. Vitamin E in combination with calcium (for better absorption) is useful for anemia, convulsions, as well as various eye diseases. Helps eliminate insomnia.
2. Eliminates the formation of cholesterol plaques on the walls of blood vessels, prevents the occurrence of atherosclerosis.
3. Almonds have a positive effect on the body with gastrointestinal diseases, as well as ulcers. Regulates and normalizes the level of acidity.
4. For children it will be useful if the child is lagging behind in physical development (usually almonds are ground into powder and added to soft foods). The optimal daily intake of almonds is 30 grams.
5. The use of almonds helps to strengthen the heart muscles, thereby reducing the risk of getting in the near future, for example, a heart attack. This nut is also an excellent stimulant for better functioning of both hemispheres of the brain.
6. Because almonds normalize sugar and cholesterol levels in the body, it would be advisable to prescribe it to diabetics (type 2), and also to use it as a prophylaxis of this disease.
7. Consumption promotes the elimination of toxins from the body, cleanses the blood and vessels. It is also used as a choleretic agent.
8. For men nuts are useful for enhancing sexual power in bed.

In order for almonds to be better absorbed, it should be consumed with the addition of sugar. This contributes to a faster process of its processing in the body.

In medicine, almond fruit used for respiratory diseases and migraines. Sweet fruits are used to treat diseases of internal organs. Emulsions from the fruits of this tree are used to treat intestinal diseases and their various complications, have a beneficial effect on the mucous membrane of the body, gently enveloping it, relieving pain and protecting it from irritation. Used for constipation.

Bitter almonds are a component of various medicinal oils and ointments (for external use).

Nut calories

Calories per 100 grams almonds is 570 calories. In the daily norm (30 g), approximately 163 kcal, depending on the size of the nut kernel.

Almond essential oil - properties and uses

To obtain almond essential oil, a cold pressing method is used. Sweet kernels are used. The oil is rich in trace elements such as phosphorus, sodium, zinc, iron, proteins and sugar, has a pleasant fresh aroma and is easily absorbed into the skin. Contains oleic and linoleic acids.

Almond oil reduces the technical indicator of cholesterol, bringing the body back to normal. Even olive oil cannot be compared with the effect of almond oil!

Oil is used in the following cases:

• helps with inflammation;
• used for the prevention of bedsores (compresses and wraps);
• treats sunburn;
• used for flatulence;
• beneficial effect on the functioning of the nervous system.

Almonds during pregnancy

Almonds and the oil produced from them are also very useful for women. Since almonds are enriched with magnesium, this beneficial effect on the body of a pregnant girl. The gynecologist prescribes the intake of trace elements in the form of tablets. Its use promotes muscle relaxation, prevention of cramps. For back pain and swelling, oil is used for external use.

Harm and contraindications

You need to remember about the daily rate of almonds. An unlimited amount of eating nuts can harm not only health, but also adversely affect the figure. Overdose can cause heart palpitations, dizziness and even drug intoxication.

Nuts are often an allergen, so before using this product in your diet, you should make sure that you do not have any contraindications.

Do not eat almonds, which still retain their natural bitterness, as it contains 4% amygdalin. When ingested, this substance decomposes into hydrocyanic acid and benzaldehyde. The lethal dose for children is 10 nucleoli, for adults - 50. In case of poisoning, you should immediately call a doctor.

Bitter almonds can only be eaten if they are calcined, then, as a result of heat treatment, substances such as glycoside and amygdalin become safe for the body. But this procedure will not relieve bitterness.

Application in cosmetology

Since the composition of almonds is rich in vitamin B, this contributes to the maintenance of skin, hair and nails in good condition. In cosmetology, essential almond oil is widely used, it is very versatile and suitable for all skin types.

Application:

• smoothing wrinkles and regenerating mature skin;
• helps with excessive dryness and peeling;
• improves the growth and density of hair and eyelashes;
• used during anti-cellulite massage;
• used in mixtures that help smooth postpartum stretch marks.

Click p. No. 3 - contraindications, secrets of use and video on how to clean the kernels.

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Chemical composition

The taste of nuts (we will call our hero habitually) is refined and light, and the saturation with calories and fats is to match our colleagues.

Detailed chemical composition almonds with vitamins and minerals per 100 grams is presented below. The figure is a percentage of the Daily Value (DN) for an adult with a diet of 2000 kcal.

• Calorie content - 645 kcal
• Proteins - 18.6 g
• Fat - 57.7 g
• Carbohydrates - 16.2 g
• Glycemic index (GI) - 25

An interesting alignment for dietary fiber: up to 49% of the DV.

Vitamins (desc)

• Vitamin E - 135%
• Vitamin B2 - 60%
• Vitamin B3 - 16%
• Vitamin B1 - 14%
• Vitamin B9 - 12%
• Vitamin B6 - 7%
• Vitamin B5 - 5%

Minerals (desc)

• Manganese - 114%
• Magnesium - 67%
• Phosphorus - 48%
• Calcium - 26%
• Zinc, iron - 21%
• Selenium - 4%

Useful properties of almonds

Helps with atherosclerosis and obesity

Almonds do not shine with a concentration and a good proportion of omega-3s (unlike), but will be a good helper in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

The reason for the benefits of almonds for the heart and blood vessels is the high content of several interconnected nutrients at once. Monounsaturated fats, antioxidant vitamin E, amino acid arginine, minerals magnesium, manganese and calcium. In addition, nuts are rich in plant flavonoids, which enhance their effect in the presence of tocopherol.

Supports the nervous system and brain

USA Today, 2005 University of Chicago findings: "Almond diet positively affects brain function in Alzheimer's mice."

Magnesium, L-carnitine, riboflavin (vitamin B 2) and other B vitamins have a positive effect on the nervous system and prevent intellectual decline.

People over 50 years of age benefit from eating almonds 3-4 times a week. This reduces the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The bonus is sound sleep and stable energy throughout the day.

Promotes healthy skin

A high concentration of vitamin E and plant antioxidants (catechin, epicatechin, quercetin, kaempferol and isorhamnetin) are a sure help in the prevention of early aging and even skin cancer. They give the body the strength to resist oxidative stress, including from excessive insolation. Excessive tanning is the first enemy of the skin.

And substances beneficial for blood vessels support good microcirculation. There is a blood flow - there is nutrition - there will be a long youth.

Harmonizes carbohydrate metabolism and protects against diabetes

Monounsaturated fatty acids slow down the rate at which glucose enters the bloodstream. In combination with vascular protection and protection against oxidative stress, we receive from almonds a complete benefit for the harmony of carbohydrate metabolism.

Helps to stabilize weight and lose weight

2003, University of Chicago, almonds on the menu for weight loss women, 6 months: "In the core group, greater reductions in weight, BMI, waist circumference, % fat, and systolic blood pressure."

And this is true, no matter how strange it may seem, given the high calorie content. It's all about the dose (maximum 30 grams per day!) and the composition of the nuts themselves.

Dietary fiber and monounsaturated fats give an excellent feeling of satiety from a small snack (15-20 nuts). These calories are not empty, you have already appreciated the richness of vitamins and minerals. After a meal, insulin does not jump, and we calmly wait for the next meal, receiving nourishment for the heart, brain and skin.

Remember! On any diet, 25-30 grams of fat is a mandatory minimum for health. An afternoon snack around 16:00 or a 2nd breakfast is the best time for nuts with benefits for the body and without harm to the figure.

We will talk about the value of almonds for women on the pages of the rubric about nuts.

Improves bowel function

Almonds are alkalizing in the body, which is beneficial for the immune system, and provide digestion with fat, which is necessary for the proper absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Dietary fiber in a healthy dosage is another plus for regular body cleansing.

Nourishes beneficial intestinal microflora

Another bonus of almond kernels in prebiotic function. Nut skins are considered especially valuable. The Institute of Food Science and Technology in China published the results of an interesting study in 2014. Women consumed 56 grams of almonds for 8 weeks. As a result, there was a significant increase in the populations of healthy bacteria (Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus).

Prebiotics - all substances that improve the reproduction of friendly microflora in the intestinal lumen. Among them, the healing effect of which we appreciated from personal experience.

Cancer prevention

And again bow to vitamin E, which is so abundant in our hero. A little bit of zinc and selenium and a competent combination with other products - and we will get excellent cancer prevention through nutrition.

What is the best combination of almonds?

With foods that are rich in other antioxidants - vitamin C, A, zinc and selenium.

Salad with cabbage, bell peppers, broccoli, dressed with citrus juice sauce and any meat dish from turkey, veal, chicken. An omelette made from chicken eggs will also fit well. Nothing exotic, but hits the mark nicely!

Bone and dental health

Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and manganese in one bottle - this is almonds through the prism of benefits for bone tissue. It remains to add vitamins D and K.

How to do it? Salads with leafy greens and cabbage, something sour-milk or a popular fish (herring, cod, halibut, tuna in its own juice).

Which we talked about separately with a step-by-step cooking recipe, helps out vegetarians, raw foodists and people with intolerance to dairy products.

Harm and contraindications

Almonds, like hazelnuts, are moderately allergenic foods. Allergy sufferers should be careful when using for the first time and in general for dosages. Allergy symptoms: abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, dizziness and nasal congestion.

Doses are also important for overweight people. 15-20 pieces per day can be healthy, and 2 generous presses will increase the daily calorie content too dramatically. Frequent overeating of almonds is a direct path to excessive fullness.

Large volumes of almonds are contraindicated for people of any complexion. Flatulence, diarrhea, spasms along the intestines and headache are a common reaction to salicylates and amines, which are rich in raw almonds, and even more so roasted. On average, from 50-60 grams of nucleoli at a time is already a risk.

• Attention! 100 grams of almonds is half the average daily intake of dietary fiber. The sharp introduction of fiber into the diet is the cause of intestinal ailments.

How to introduce dietary fiber without harm?

Enriching the previously poor menu, we do it step by step. And be sure to drink more water!

Another problem with all nuts, grains and seeds is phytic acid, which slows down the absorption of calcium, magnesium and iron. Adherents of the naturopathic diet actively promote the soaking of raw nuts before eating.

How to eat almonds

Ideally - raw peeled almonds soaked in water with the addition of salt or acid. Maximum benefit, minimum harm - according to naturopaths, who especially do not favor the skin (it contains the most phytic acid).

How to soak nuts?

We need:

• Nuts - 1 cup
• Water - 2 glasses
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Glass bowl/jar.

Fill overnight, up to 12 hours in a row. We take it out and clean it carefully.

An intermediate option is to blanch the nuts in boiling water for 1 minute. Next, drain the water and remove the skin.

And if you boil the nucleoli for 2-3 minutes over medium heat, then a quick cleaning will become available even to a child.

The video below shows 2 ways to peel almonds.

How to choose and store

There are sellers without conscience, more often they are occasional guests in the markets. They offer "bitter almonds", which look very similar to sweet ones. But in fact, these are apricot seeds, in which there is a lot of hydrocyanic acid. Only 20-30 pieces - poisoning cannot be avoided. It is especially difficult for children.

The sweet almond differs from the dangerous counterpart in a more elongated shape and a pointed tip. It is slightly larger, with an apparently smooth poured surface.

How not to make a mistake in choosing? We buy raw almonds from the same vendor in a large city market, and carefully evaluate any nuts called "almonds" that other people offer children.

How to store almonds?

Limit the access of oxygen and light, put in a closed dry container, in the refrigerator. Large batches - in the freezer.

P.S. For those who like to look behind the scenes of the manufacturer.

Thank you for the article (17)

How often do we think about the benefits of nuts when thinking about almonds? Almost always, it is valued and loved more than peanuts or hazelnuts, it is added to sweet and spicy dishes, and almond oil, which is extremely beneficial for the body of women and men, is extracted from it.

However, does everyone know that almonds are not a nut, but belong to a subspecies of stone fruits of the plum family? And only a similar vitamin and mineral composition and a similar appearance allowed almonds to get into the “nut company”.

The benefits of almonds have been known since ancient times. In the old days, healers used almond oil for rinsing, as a remedy that relieves heart and headaches, calms the nervous system, and has a beneficial effect on health.

This nut came to us from the countries of Western and Northern Asia. Already in ancient Egypt, the almond tree was cultivated and its fruits were served on the table to the pharaohs and other nobles. At that distant time, the healing qualities of almonds for women during pregnancy were already known.

In England, there is a belief that if you carry five almonds in your pocket, then your life will be happy and prosperous. And Swiss chefs bake sweet pies with a single grain of nuts inside for birthdays or holidays. Whoever gets the grain will be rich and happy in the new year.

Composition and calories

Almonds are useful as they contain riboflavin, zinc, magnesium and iron. This combination of trace elements allows the use of walnut to combat diseases of the cardiovascular system - heart attacks, distance, hypertension. Interestingly, even a few drops of almond oil can soothe heart pain and restore the rhythm of the heart muscle. Naturally, this will not help in the presence of chronic diseases, but is effective only in isolated cases of sudden cardiac arrhythmia. And for women during pregnancy, almonds are very useful.

The nutritional value

Nuts have a calorie content - 580 kcal per 100 g of almonds, or 7 calories per grain. Product nutritional value:

The composition indicates that it is a rather fatty food product. But nutritionists do not recommend it for overweight people, not even because it is high in calories. The fact is that the smell of the product stimulates the appetite, so even a pinch of grated or ground nuts in food can unnecessarily stimulate the appetite.

vitamins

Almost 37% of the composition of the nut is vitamin E. In combination with calcium, the product becomes an excellent assistant in the fight against anemia, astigmatism, and insomnia. Just a few grains a day, eaten regularly on an empty stomach, and the result will not be long in coming. It also has a beneficial effect during pregnancy, supplying the body of the unborn child with calcium. Vitamins:

Minerals

Minerals in almonds:

The composition of vitamins and trace elements makes the nut a source of a substance that lowers the level of acidity of gastric juice. For example, the use of oil allows you to fight diseases such as gastritis and stomach ulcers and intestinal diseases. Oily covers the digestive system with a protective film, has a calming effect on the mucous membrane, healing wounds.

Raw or fried

The healing properties of almonds have been known for a long time, but which nut is better and in what cases does one or another type and method of processing add useful or harmful properties?

Raw almonds contain a lot of useful substances. Only 20 raw almond kernels contain the daily norm of all trace elements and vitamins necessary for the normal functioning of the body. The benefits of raw nuts are that it is an excellent antioxidant, improves the functioning of the cardiovascular and digestive systems, improves immunity, normalizes glucose and cholesterol levels, and for women during pregnancy and in the child's body, it activates cell growth.

In terms of nutritional composition and benefits for the body, fried is significantly inferior to raw. If you prefer roasted almonds, then it is better to purchase one whose kernels have not been fried in vegetable fats. Walnut has a lower content of vitamin E, practically loses its ability to fight vascular diseases, but in general, roasted almonds do not cause harm, as was previously believed.

Benefits for women and men

In addition to the above beneficial properties, almonds are useful in that:

• The product contains an excellent combination of magnesium, phosphorus and calcium. This is especially important for regulation, both for women during pregnancy and for men with a lack of vitamin D, which is necessary for the strengthening and health of the skeletal system;
• The benefits of nuts for men are fully manifested only with daily use. As you know, the male population of the planet is more prone to heart attacks than the female. It is almonds that can strengthen the vascular system of a man, normalize the heart rhythm, and reduce the risk of heart muscle diseases;
• The use of nuts during pregnancy lies in the high content of protein in its composition, which is so necessary for the growth and development of body cells. The rich content of vitamin E minimizes the risk of sudden abortion, and folic acid activates and normalizes the process of fetal growth.

For both men and women in middle and older age there is a problem of insomnia. Almonds are an excellent sedative. Eating ground nuts, even in small quantities, normalizes sleep.

Harm amygdalin

Historical facts also indicate that almonds can be harmful to the body. Bitter almonds contain a deadly poison for humans - amygdalin glycoside. Splitting in the body, it releases hydrocyanic acid, so a large number of grains of wild bitter almonds eaten at a time causes hypoxia in people.

By the way, amygdalin is also found in fruits such as apricot, plum, pear and apple. Therefore, be careful if dried and split apricot kernels become your baby's favorite treat in the summer. In large quantities, these grains can also be harmful.

Be sure to include almonds in your daily diet. The content of a large number of micro and macro elements will allow you to prevent the development of a number of serious diseases, remove toxins and toxic substances from the body, and during pregnancy strengthen the immune properties of the body of the expectant mother and her child.

When choosing almonds, buy nuts with whole shells. A pleasant spicy smell should come from the kernel; such almonds are healthy and edible. And do not forget - almonds can cause allergic reactions, so it is advisable to consult a nutritionist before eating!

Since ancient times, many peoples have believed almonds, useful properties which are indisputable, a symbol of fertility, prosperity and marital happiness. The almond tree is a plant belonging to the Rosaceae family. Asia is considered the birthplace of this plant. Today it is brought from the United States, Syria, Iran, Spain, Italy. Every year the geography of production of this crop is expanding. There are about forty types of almonds. Breeders do not stop developing plant varieties that are more resistant to various climatic conditions.

Almond. Photo

Almond grows well on dry hillsides, poor soils. But it does not tolerate a lack of calcium in the soil. Does not like shady places, does not require a lot of moisture. Although a tree may live for a hundred and thirty years, it will only bear fruit for fifty years. Reproduction comes from "children" coming from the root of a tree or a bone. The culture is frost-resistant, but spring frosts and cold rain can cause crop failure. The plant is shaped like a bush or tree. Its height can reach six meters.

The leaves of the almond tree are long, with a pointed end. Blooms beautifully and profusely in pink. After flowering, fruits are formed - drupes. By the time of ripening, the soft part of the fruit dries up, and the dry crust disappears. As the almonds ripen, they resemble green peaches. The weight of the almond stone is from 1 to 5 grams.

Varieties of almonds

Thanks to the protective shell, the kernels retain their useful qualities for a long time, because they do not come into contact with oxygen and ultraviolet rays. Purified nucleoli during long-term storage are able to lose their biologically active properties. In nature, sweet and bitter almonds grow. Sweet grains are oval in shape.

Bitter almonds are suitable for making almond oil, which is used as a flavoring for drinks. The grains of bitter almonds contain a large amount of amygdalin - up to 4%. Once in the body, this toxic substance decomposes into hydrocyanic acid and benzaldehyde. Bitter almonds are not eaten. It is especially dangerous for children. Just ten nucleoli can cause severe harm to their health and even lead to death. For an adult, a lethal amount of poison is contained in fifty bitter nucleoli. In cases of poisoning with poisonous grains, you should immediately call a doctor.

The bitterness of almonds is given by a substance - the glycoside amygdalin. An interesting fact: after heat treatment, a substance that was poisonous becomes safe. Therefore, bitter walnut grains, if calcined, can be safely eaten. Only they still retain bitterness.

There is another type of almond - fragile. The kernels of this variety are sweet in taste, and their peel is very thin. Almonds are distinguished by the thickness of the skin. Here they are divided into thick-skinned, thick-skinned, soft-skinned, and also paper-skinned varieties. Paper-skinned almonds are very convenient to use, but do not tolerate transportation and storage.

Sweet almond. The benefits and harms of the product

Sweet almonds, which have a calorie content of approximately 570 calories per 100 grams of grains, are a healthy food for humans. Its kernels contain 50-60% fatty oils. This composition still includes 10% of saturated fats that are harmful to the body. The rest of the mass is represented by monounsaturated fats, which are considered ideal for absorption. Proteins in the product - up to 30%, almonds contain a record amount of protein.

Almonds are rich in B vitamins, and also contain vital vitamin E. Sufficient amount of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, potassium. In terms of potassium content, the product is slightly inferior only. According to the content of magnesium and zinc, walnut ranks third among its relatives. But, none of them has as much calcium as almonds. And if we sum up the entire content of biologically active substances, almond kernels remain in first place among all types of nuts.

Since almonds contain a large amount of calcium and vitamin E, it will be useful for people with anemia, eye diseases, with convulsive muscle contractions, and insomnia. With increased acidity, grains are able to regulate acid formation in the stomach. Almonds are used for peptic ulcers of the stomach and intestines. It is recommended to give it to children with insufficient functions in physical development. For medicinal purposes, adults should take up to fifteen grains three times a day. Children are given the norm in the form of a powder in soft food.

Two servings of almonds a week reduce the risk of myocardial infarction. The product is able to stop the degradation of the brain in old age. Biologically active elements and vitamin E found in almonds and the manifestation of atherosclerosis. And the B vitamins do an indispensable job, maintaining skin, hair, and nails in good condition. The use of grains helps to remove toxins and poisons from the body, helps to cleanse the body and blood. Almonds and products with its content are used as a choleretic agent, it is useful for enhancing male potency.

To make the healing properties of almonds more effective, it is more advisable to use the kernels with sugar. It fully facilitates the process of processing and assimilation of the product in the body. When using almonds, you need to remember about its calorie content and complex digestion. Nuts eaten in unlimited quantities can only harm. The optimal daily allowance is a handful of nucleoli up to 30 grams.

Contraindications for the use of sweet almonds are much less than bitter ones. But still they exist. It should be eaten with caution by people prone to allergies. Since sweet almonds have a huge amount of calories, they should not be eaten by those who are overweight. Nut can cause heart palpitations, dizziness and overexcitation, and in some cases even drug intoxication.

Application in medicine

For many hundreds of years, healers have been prescribing almonds for the treatment of asthma, migraine, anemia, and loss of sensation in the upper and lower extremities. Preparations for external use are made from bitter almonds, and sweet ones are widely used in the treatment of internal diseases. It is used to prevent malignant tumors, since vitamin E contained in the nut is the strongest antioxidant that can protect body cells from degeneration. Emulsions from almond grains facilitate the manifestation of diseases of the digestive tract: they relieve pain, relieve constipation, envelop the mucous membrane, protecting it from irritation.

Almond oil relieves inflammation. It is used in the dilution of camphor for injections, and medicinal ointments are also made from it. Buried in the ears for pain and tinnitus. The oil is used for bruises and injuries. Almond flour with honey is good for herpes. Just 10 grains of almonds can relieve heartburn. Bitter fruits are widely used in the manufacture of homeopathic remedies for the treatment of diphtheria, ear disease, asthma, and dry cough. Drops from bitter almonds are used in a small dosage (7 drops each) against flatulence and to improve appetite.

Dieting is easy with almonds. 100 grams of product per day can satisfy hunger. At the same time, a person can feel good throughout the day, because nuts have a low glycemic index. Therefore, from the use of almond kernels, the rate of sugar in the blood rises slightly. So you can not feel hungry for a long time. A constant level of sugar is the guarantor of satiety of the body.

Since almonds allow you to normalize and reduce the level of sugar in the body, it is prescribed for patients with diabetes. The nuclei are especially useful for patients with type 2 diabetes, as well as for patients who have shown a pre-diabetic state. The product can be taken for the treatment of diabetes, as well as for prevention. Due to the properties of almonds to normalize the level of cholesterol in the blood, it reduces the likelihood of diabetes.

Almonds contain a lot of mineral salts, which are necessary for pregnant women. Almonds during pregnancy are recommended by gynecologists. This is the best source of magnesium. The microelement is also prescribed for women in the form of tablets. This drug relieves excessive tension in the muscles and prevents cramps. 30 grams of nucleoli contain a daily intake of magnesium - 80 mg. Vitamin E, which is abundant in the product, contributes to the normal bearing of the fetus. Walnut grains save a pregnant woman from constipation. To relieve back pain and swelling, a mixture is prescribed: 100 gr. almond oil, 7 drops of lavender oil and 3 drops of neroli and sandalwood. Almonds are good for breastfeeding.

Almond oil

Fatty oils are contained in almond kernels from 40 to 60%. To obtain a quality product, a cold pressing method is used. The oil is made from sweet varieties of almonds. It is very easily absorbed on the surface of the skin. The composition of the oil includes from 60 to 80% monounsaturated acids, 15-25% polyunsaturated, carotene, vitamin B2, vitamin E, amygdalin. A set of trace elements: iron, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium, sugar, proteins.

The oil is widely used for the manufacture of cosmetics, as well as for medicinal purposes. The product is superior in the effectiveness of lowering cholesterol in the blood. Able to fight inflammation, helps with burns. Oil gives a cosmetic effect for any type of skin. And also it helps to recover well after a protracted illness, to gain the missing kilograms.

A little less than a teaspoon per day of almond oil is recommended to drink as a sedative, anti-inflammatory, expectorant and pain reliever. Useful for otitis, bloating and lung diseases. Creates a good effect when applying compresses. Bedridden patients are prescribed for the prevention of bedsores.

How to choose almonds? How to store almonds?

Almonds are best bought in shell. It is necessary to make sure that the shell is solid, without a rusty coating, without mold. The fruits should be uniform in color, similar in shape. You need to choose nuts by smell. If the almond is good, then its smell is pleasant, it gives off freshness. Rancid almonds should not be bought. The product in sealed bags will be of better quality, because it is least exposed to atmospheric influences.

If you are offered roasted almonds, then it is best to buy nuts roasted without oil. You should not buy a product that has been coated in sugar, doused in corn syrup, or with preservatives.

If you leave purchased almonds in an open container, they will quickly deteriorate, acquire a rancid smell, as they contain fatty acids and oils. It is best stored in glassware, in a cool place. Almonds can be stored in tight packages in the freezer. In the refrigerator, the product will be fresh for a long time. The beneficial properties of almonds are best preserved when they remain in the shell.

Almond is known to many as a nut, but it is not. The almond is a shrub or small tree whose fruit looks like an apricot pit. For the first time, almonds were found in Western Asia, the most common places for growing nuts are the USA, China, Crimea, and the Caucasus.

The tree blooms in March - April, February, ripens in early summer, is resistant to frost, bad weather, so it is not afraid of severe frosts up to 25 degrees below Celsius.

Benefit or danger?

Despite all its beneficial properties, almonds can be harmful to health, excessive consumption of the nut will lead to unpleasant consequences. Be especially careful in the doses used.

The benefits of almonds

Walnut removes sand from the kidneys, normalizes the functioning of the spleen and liver, cleanses the blood,. Daily use of almonds improves brain activity, reduces stress. Women who include almonds in their diet are less likely to suffer from depression and insomnia.

Ladies know how beneficial the nutritional properties of walnut are for hair and skin. Creams, the main component of which is a nut, effectively help prevent the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks. Almonds are also useful for men. The stronger sex who uses almonds does not know problems with potency. With a hangover and headache after alcohol, he will cope with this task. At the first stage of baldness, it is recommended to make a slurry of milk mixed with almonds and rub it into problem areas.

Nut damage - important features

There are many useful properties in the product, but it is an allergen. It is contraindicated to use unripe grains. In this form of almonds there is a large amount of hydrocyanic acid, dangerous to humans. A large amount of acid produced is harmful. Small doses are used in homeopathic remedies for diseases such as asthma, diphtheria.

Women know about the high calorie content of the nut. By consuming large quantities of almonds daily, extra pounds are inevitable. Useful almonds for the elderly. Its properties have a positive effect on the health of joints and bones. For fractures, it is recommended to use 100 grams of grains, with the help of its beneficial properties, bone overgrowth will occur faster. Face masks with the addition of tree milk are especially useful for people with dry skin, the nutritional properties of the product will protect the skin from chapping and bad weather in winter. Creams with the composition of almonds for problem skin are contraindicated. It is not recommended to use such cosmetics in the hot season.

Contraindications: ban on pralines

Almonds have contraindications. It is worth refraining from using this product for people suffering from problems of the nervous system, dysfunction of the heart rhythm. Praline is contraindicated for those prone to obesity, allergic reactions, problems with the thyroid gland. Despite contraindications, a minimum dose of 1-2 times a month is acceptable. Children under 2 years of age are not recommended to include this product in their diet. It is contraindicated to add the fetus to the food of nursing mothers. Some properties of the fruit cause allergies. This can harm a newborn baby by causing severe allergies.

Vitamins - saturate the body

Everyone knows that the plant has beneficial properties, but almonds are a storehouse of vitamins.

Having consumed 100 grams of the product, you get a daily dose of the elements necessary for the normal functioning of the body. The beneficial properties that the fetus has are vital elements for human health, especially for people whose professions are associated with stress.

Culinary masterpieces from walnut

The choice of food is huge. Roasted nut is considered an original and unusual snack. If you cover the fruit with chocolate, then it will become a tasty and healthy candy, and most importantly, natural. Such a delicacy in moderate doses will not be able to harm the figure. The product added to the meat will emphasize the sophistication of the dish, and desserts can be anything: cakes, pastries, fruit salads, grains will decorate the dish and give an original taste. The plant is the main component of the horchata milkshake. The beneficial properties of the fruit tone up and quench thirst. The drink should be consumed in the summer or in the warm season. Culinary masterpieces acquire a special taste and aroma. It is difficult to underestimate the importance of this element, because often the perception of the whole dish depends on the taste shades.

Raw or fried fruit - gourmet's choice

Raw fruit can be consumed in its pure form. Consumers are accustomed to eating it dried or fried. The plant should be eaten fully ripe. The fruit will not harm health, but rather strengthen it.

When choosing a plant, give preference to whole grains in the skin. This is a guarantee of a quality product.

Scope of the plant

In addition to nutrition and cosmetics for the face and body, aromatic oils and perfumes are made from grains. Many such familiar notes complement the bouquet of smells. Medicine notes the beneficial properties of the plant, using it in the formation of new drugs. The plant has become an original decorative element for apartments or offices where it is necessary to create an original atmosphere. From the grains, you can construct various products that smell pleasant and please the owner's eye.

Almonds have been known to the consumer for a very long time. Its wide application in many areas proves the benefits of its use. Observing the necessary proportions, you can achieve a healing effect. For lovers of delicious desserts, a new component has appeared that allows you to give different shades to familiar dishes. The benefits are obvious. It is enough to follow the recommendations and the consumer will not be afraid of such side effects as allergies, obesity.