How and when to eat almonds. The benefits and harms of almonds for the human body, useful properties and contraindications

The almond contains a huge amount of vitamin E and calcium, the combination of these two elements makes it simply indispensable product for those people who suffer from anemia, visual impairment, insomnia, as well as peptic ulcers, both of the stomach and duodenum, seizures and increased acidity of gastric juice. In the presence of any of these diseases, it is recommended to eat at least a dozen nuts a day, and in a month the first results will be visible.

The healing qualities of almonds will also benefit children, they are able to increase activity, both mental and physical, and also eliminate growth retardation.

With the help of this product, you can somewhat reduce the likelihood of developing heart attacks, the prophylactic course involves a one and a half week intake, you can also eat several nuts at least once every five days.

Almonds can be an excellent aid in the treatment of dementia in old age, and their regular consumption is the prevention of dementia. This is due to the saturation of nuts with vitamin E, and it is contained in them in an easily digestible form. This element protects the integrity of blood vessels and maintains their elasticity at the proper level, in addition, it prevents bad cholesterol from being deposited in the body and helps to get rid of existing accumulations.

The healing qualities of almond nuts are used for various pulmonary diseases, such as pneumonia, bronchial asthma, cough, and also for otitis media. The use of this product has an anti-inflammatory and expectorant effect. In addition, nuts contribute to the normalization of the functional activity of the central nervous system, they effectively restore emotional balance.

Almond nuts are known among physicians as an excellent remedy for the treatment of kidney and heart ailments, they also have a beneficial effect on vision. They are used to treat tachycardia, especially in its earliest stages, with stomatitis in childhood and adulthood, and to normalize work. digestive tract. Such a spectrum healing qualities, which almonds possess, is not characteristic of any other nuts.

In cosmetology, both the nuts themselves and the oil prepared on their basis are widely used. They are added to various hair care products, as they give the hair elasticity and enhance its shine. Almond makes hair stronger and more flexible, prevents hair loss and split ends.

Oil made from this unique product, is widely used for a variety of massage procedures. It's different unique composition and is not capable of causing any allergic reactions and inflammatory processes on the skin. Therefore, it can be used in relation to both children and adults. The composition of the almond makes the skin younger, it becomes fresh, moisturized and gains firmness and elasticity. This eliminates the possibility of stretch marks. In fact, in cosmetology practice, almond oil is a recognized remedy for the treatment and prevention of a variety of skin ailments. It very quickly penetrates the skin, nourishes and softens it, simultaneously relaxing the person.

Aromas of almonds affect the human body in a special way. A variety of miraculous remedies are prepared on the basis of nuts, which, even at home, relax and effectively distract from negative emotions, plunging a person into a state of real peace and emotional balance. The vapors of these essential oils literally fill the cells of the body with positive energy.

Almonds are able to soften, relieve pain and remove inflammation. During convulsions, it is recommended to regularly apply its kernels, a course of two months.

Since the current environmental situation leaves much to be desired, it is recommended to include almonds in your daily diet. It will mitigate the harmful effects of toxins entering our body. This product is a wonderful antioxidant that will benefit both adults and children.

Scientists know many healing properties of almonds. It is very high in calories and contains a lot of fatty acids, which are highly beneficial. It is especially paradoxical that with moderate consumption of this product they do not get better, because, despite the high energy value, almond promotes the breakdown of body fat and their natural excretion.

Thus, almonds will help those who want to get rid of excess weight and will not harm even on the most strict diet. You can safely eat up to 25 nuts a day without worrying about overweight. But at the same time, the product should be raw, and not fried, and even more so not salty. This dosage makes almonds simply an indispensable product for human body, it reduces the number of lipid formations and normalizes cholesterol levels.

Almond nuts are widely used as part of various masks. home cooking. They restore and nourish the skin, adding elasticity and tone to it.

Almonds are a truly unique product, it is not only very tasty, but also healthy. Regular consumption of it can prevent and even cure great amount a wide variety of diseases.

Contraindications for taking almonds

Do not forget that individual intolerance can manifest itself even in people who do not suffer from allergies.

Almonds are quite high in calories, so it is worth limiting them to those who are obese.

For those who have high heart rates, it is not advisable to consume a lot of nuts.

Do not take unripe almonds, as they contain cyanide, which definitely leads to poisoning. Raw bitter almonds contain poisonous hydrocyanic acid, and there is so much of it that even in fried such nuts are consumed only in small quantities. They are mainly used for making almond oil.

When it comes to almonds, many people understand what a healthy and aromatic product they are talking about. The almond kernel is considered to be a nut, although this is not entirely true. This tree belongs to the Rose family and the Plum genus, which in general indicates the incorrectness of the opinion that has long been accepted. This tree is often used to breed new varieties of apricot or plum. But today it was the core - almonds that attracted our attention.

To begin with, it is worth noting that the bones are of two types: bitter and sweet. The former are used for cosmetic purposes (making soap, fragrances for perfumes, oil is collected from the cake, which is also endowed with useful properties). Sweet almonds have found their way into cooking thanks to interesting taste And unique aroma. They are used both for making desserts and as fragrant seasoning to fish or meat, it occupies not the last place in sauces. These ossicular nuclei contain many useful substances which can help improve the condition of the body.

It is worth remembering that almonds are not apricot seeds and they have characteristic differences not only in appearance, but also in their composition and the presence of nutrients.

Sweet almond calories (100 gr)

Almonds are slightly ahead of hazelnuts in terms of calories, but in terms of fat content, they have much in common not only with nutmeg, but also with pistachios. Now you should not take your head and shout about the critical level of fats, it is worth remembering that nuts contain useful polyunsaturated fatty acid, which are able to normalize not only metabolic processes, but also significantly affect the quality of work of almost all internal organs. In a proper and healthy diet, almonds can and should be present, but here we are talking not about kilogram portions, but only about a few nucleoli.

The presence of nutrients

Almond contains useful vitamin E, which acts as a natural antioxidant. These nuclei are rich in minerals: magnesium, phosphorus, copper, zinc, iron and manganese, some B vitamins are also present. Almonds are known for having up to 40% polyunsaturated fats and amino acids. Especially there are a lot of palmintic and stearic acids in it.

Benefits for the body

Useful properties for the body are attributed to the sweet varieties of "nuts". They can influence work. genitourinary system. With the introduction of almonds into the diet, it is possible to remove stones from the kidneys, but with this property you need to be careful and consult a doctor. Almonds will help reduce urinary problems. It also has a positive effect on the functioning of male organs and can help men improve the condition of the prostate gland and affect potency. Rumor has it that almond kernels are much more effective than even the well-known oysters, which do not graze the back from the point of view of an aphrodisiac.

Acids and iron, which are in the composition of almonds, have a positive effect on the state of the blood and can not only cleanse it, but also improve the condition. Stearic acid helps to eliminate excess cholesterol, which can cause irreparable harm body and lead to thickening of the blood and cholesterol plaques. Iron is able to increase the number of blood cells that carry oxygen and saturate everything with it. internal organs. But not only nuts are rich in this mineral, but also vegetables, such as rhubarb.

Such fragrant product able to bring great benefit human nervous system. Almonds have a calming property, help to improve sleep, reduce stress and transfer it without the use of sedatives.

Another such “nut” has a positive effect on the functioning of the brain, and it is not nearly worse than dark chocolate. The phosphorus content can even be compared with some varieties of fish, such as tilapia or smelt. With regular use of almonds, there is an improvement in memory and an increase in the level of mental functions. Therefore, this product will be useful for frequent mental stress.

Sweet almonds can improve performance gastrointestinal tract and intestinal motility, cleanse of toxins. At correct use, you can significantly improve the condition of ulcerative or chronic diseases of the stomach or duodenum, as nuts have antispasmodic and antiseptic properties.

For women, almonds will bring many benefits. First of all, as the owner of a natural antioxidant, which is responsible for the youthfulness of the skin and the fight against free radicals. Vitamin E and some representatives of the B group successfully remove toxins and prevent the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. Responsible for supplying moisture, amino acids and minerals not only upper layers skin, but also deeper parts of the epidermis. Amino acids and fats can improve the condition of the hair, they restore the structure, improve the blood supply to the hair follicles, which will help to avoid the development of early baldness.

The protein in almonds, the amount of which can be compared with a piece of chicken, is involved in important chemical processes inside the cell. It is also a building material for all tissues of the body. Therefore, for proper development and maintenance of health at the right level, it is necessary to receive protein in a certain amount every day, whether it is of animal or vegetable origin.

When snacking on such sweet nuts, you can fight development cancer, since I often use them as a prophylactic for such pathological changes inside the cell.

The external use of almonds is quite wide. Various body peels are made on the basis of oils, which will help get rid of stretch marks, cellulite and other skin imperfections. After nourishing masks on the basis of this product, the skin becomes velvety and tender, small mimic wrinkles are smoothed out, it becomes more saturated with moisture. But hair masks based on crushed almonds and milk will help get rid of bald patches, this remedy is especially popular among men.

Contraindication and harm

Almond kernels can harm your body if you have a nut allergy. When overeating this nut, you can feel some intoxicated state. It is necessary to use such a product with caution, do not overeat.

When eating bitter almonds, it is possible to get poisoned, so carefully approach his choice.

Almonds are contraindicated for people with heart rhythm problems. In such cases, it is best to avoid fragrant nut so as not to aggravate the course of the existing disease.

With the abuse of almonds, Negative consequences may develop in healthy person. Always worth remembering allowable rate consumption (no more than 50 grams per day).

Almonds are one of the popular food products with high nutritional value, pleasantly sweet nutty flavor And exquisite aroma. Despite the fact that it is commonly called a nut, in fact, the almond that we are used to eating is the fruit of a tree belonging to the Plum genus. The beneficial properties of almonds are in their high nutritional value, as well as in the content of a large number of essential trace elements, minerals, vitamins, fatty acids, essential oils.

Benefit

Due to the rich component composition, the product is widely used in cooking, cosmetics, and medicine. Sweetish fruit kernels, which have a characteristic nutty flavor, are used as an independent product, and as an aromatic additive to sweet, meat, fish dishes, soups, alcoholic beverages, desserts, pastries in various culinary traditions.

There are two main types of almonds - bitter and sweet. The first is not recommended to be eaten, because. it contains a large amount of toxic substances - hydrocyanic acid and benzaldehyde. Bitter wild almonds are used as a raw material for oil production. It is used as a substitute for camphor and other fillers in various emulsions, as well as a laxative. Bitter almond oil has a mild anti-inflammatory, analgesic and enveloping effect.

In cosmetics, almond oil is highly valued due to its subtle pleasant aroma. On its basis, fragrances are obtained for perfumed cosmetics. But the most widespread use of almonds is in the food industry. It can be used in whole- raw and lightly fried. Based on almonds various products supply:

• almond milk;
• candies;
• sweet pastries;
• alcoholic drinks;
• culinary essences for flavoring dishes.

Very often, almonds can be found in the composition of confectionery products - sweets, chocolate, buns, pastries, cakes. The most popular brand sweets based on it - the world-famous Raffaello sweets. Another famous product with almonds is the sweet amaretto liqueur, which has the characteristic aroma of the kernels of this plant. The French use almonds as the basis for baking macarons.

Medicinal properties

Almonds can and should be eaten whole as a valuable source of proteins, fats, vitamins. The main health benefits of almond kernels are:

• general strengthening action;
• elimination of anemic conditions;
• improving the functioning of the nervous system;
• normalization of cholesterol levels;
• risk reduction cardiovascular disease.

home the nutritional value for the human body is the high calorie content of almonds and a large amount of vegetable proteins and fats. This makes almonds especially beneficial for vegetarians and strict vegans who don't get animal protein in their diet. Since the kernels contain a large amount of vegetable protein (up to 30%), almonds can be considered a full-fledged alternative to meat and other animal products. Many adherents plant-based diet who do not consume dairy products and eggs are happy to drink the so-called. almond milk is a mixture of softened and ground kernels with water.

Connoisseurs exotic cuisines find almonds very tasty in the composition various dishes. It is traditionally used in dishes Asian cuisine, where it is customary to add it to fish and meat dishes, rice and wheat noodles.

Harm

Eating almonds can harm the body in some cases:

• if these are kernels of bitter wild almonds containing toxic substances that can cause severe food poisoning and even lead to death.
• immature almond kernels also have toxic properties, they can cause digestive disorders, confusion, fainting;
• nuts affected by the fungus are also undesirable to eat, because. they may contain mold toxins.

Dietary Properties

Almonds are widely used for dietary nutrition. Adults and children suffering from anemia, weakened immunity, prone to frequent viral infections should use almonds as a general tonic. It is useful to eat almond kernels for people who are underweight.

The healing properties of almonds show themselves well in diseases of the kidneys: urolithiasis. The kernels are known for their beneficial effect, increasing diuresis and helping to relieve swelling associated with impaired kidney function.

Almonds, containing a high amount of polyunsaturated fats and valuable fatty acids, are very useful for people with problematic skin, dry and brittle hair, exfoliating nails. Vegetable fats are extremely beneficial for skin and hair health due to their high concentration of vitamin B5 and tocopherol.

But at diet food, aimed at losing weight, the use of almonds should be strictly limited or completely excluded from the diet due to the high calorie content of the product.

calories

The energy value of almonds is very high and amounts to 576 kcal per 100 grams of product. Such calorie content of almonds is due to the high content vegetable fats- up to 60% off total weight raw materials. Almond fatty oils contain oleic and linoleic acids, as well as a small percentage of essential substances.

Almonds are superior in calories to cashews. walnuts and peanuts, second only to hazelnuts. Therefore, the product is recommended for use by people with a lack of body weight. Obese people can eat almonds in limited quantities - up to 5 kernels per day.

It is useful to give almonds to children experiencing high mental stress at school. Thanks to B vitamins, magnesium and potassium, the product increases stress resistance and normalizes the functioning of the nervous system. Many note the high effectiveness of almond milk for insomnia.

Contraindications

Is almond good for everyone, or does it have contraindications? In rare cases, the product may have special instructions for use. So, it is not recommended to eat it:

• with individual intolerance to the product;
• tendency to food allergies;
• with obesity;
• with some diseases of cardio-vascular system.

Sensitivity immune system may cause allergic reactions to almonds. If a person is known to be allergic to peanuts or other nuts, especially if accompanied by anaphylactoid reactions (mucosal swelling) respiratory tract), then almonds should be consumed with great care or discarded.

The product in some cases may be contraindicated in people suffering from diseases of the heart and blood vessels. High content fats, potassium and calcium in the nuclei of almonds can aggravate the condition in atherosclerosis, in which cholesterol plaques form on the walls of blood vessels.

Is it possible for pregnant or lactating women?

For women planning to conceive, as well as pregnant and lactating mothers sweet almond very helpful. It contains a large amount of B vitamins, as well as valuable vitamin E - tocopherol. It is considered a vitamin that increases fertility and helps to endure strong healthy offspring. Almonds are good for the health of the reproductive system for both women and men . For the stronger sex, almonds are very favorable as a valuable source of protein, which has a beneficial effect on the formation of healthy spermatozoa and enhances potency.

A high concentration of calcium will allow the expectant mother to replenish its intensive consumption during the formation of the fetal skeleton, avoiding tooth decay due to a lack of this mineral. Magnesium, iron, phosphorus also have a beneficial effect on the condition of the mother and fetus, preventing the development of anemia and strengthening nervous system.

Attention! Pregnant and lactating women should be especially careful when choosing almonds, avoiding the use of bitter kernels. Hydrocyanic acid and amygdalin, which make the fruits bitter bad taste, render Negative influence on both mother and fetus.

The nutritional value

Almond kernels contain valuable vitamins and minerals, as well as essential nutrients- proteins, fats and carbohydrates. 100 grams of product contains:

Vitamins and trace elements per 100 grams of almonds:

How to use?

It is better to eat only sweet almonds. It can be purchased raw in supermarkets and shops. oriental spices. It is advisable to buy kernels in sealed plastic bags.

Almonds can be successfully consumed whole as a substitute harmful chips, crackers and other snacks. With a busy work schedule, at school or when there is not enough time for full lunch almonds can be healthy snack replenishing the energy reserves of the body and relieving the feeling of hunger.

You can eat almonds:

• raw, previously peeled;
• in the form of almond milk;
• lightly toasted in a dry frying pan to a pleasant golden color;
• as part of sweets, pastries.

If you found raw almonds in the bone, it must be cleaned and fried. There is no need to pour oil into the pan, because. almond kernels themselves contain a large amount vegetable fat. You need to fry them in a dry thick-walled pan over medium or low heat, shaking the pan often until you feel a pleasant nutty aroma and hear the crackling of the kernels.

Almond milk can be a complete substitute for cow, goat or soy milk for strict vegetarians Orthodox post and people with lactose intolerance. To prepare milk, it is necessary to peel the almond kernels and put them in water for several hours to soften them. After they need to be thoroughly ground with water using a blender, optionally adding sugar, honey or other sweetener.

From almonds, you can get flour for making special cookies - macaroons, as well as simply dip the nucleolus in chocolate and let it harden. Get delicious and healthy treat which can be given to children.

Many people do homemade alcohol by insisting it on almonds. At the same time, not only kernels are used, but also the shell of nuts, which is also saturated with an aromatic substance - amygdalin, which has a characteristic pleasant smell.

Storage

Keep almonds dry cool place, in pure sealed container, preferably glass or faience. It is undesirable to hit direct sun rays and impact high temperatures, as well as proximity to other products with a strong aroma. Spices - cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg- Can overpower the natural flavor of almonds.

It is best to keep the kernels in a small glass or plastic container with a lid or in a plastic bag in the refrigerator or when room temperature. Store fried or raw nuts in the refrigerator can be several months.

How to choose?

It is better to choose almonds in stores sold in portions. plastic bags or containers. In appearance, the kernels should have a pleasant golden-orange hue and a subtle nutty smell. Should be of concern:

• the presence of an ugly rusty coating;
• rotten or old smell;
• several cores affected by mold;
• unpleasant bitter taste of nuts.

If the almond kernels are very bitter in taste, then they should not be eaten, because. they can cause severe food poisoning.

What is combined with?

Almonds are combined with many foods, sweets, alcoholic beverages:

• with sweet puff pastry in the form of marzipan shavings;
• with bitter, milk, white chocolate;
• with coffee or milk liquor, amaretto, amarula;
• with coffee, milk desserts, ice cream.

Some Asian dishes also include roasted almond kernels: Thai-style basmati rice and Indian recipe with spices usually, wok noodles (some variants of the recipe) and other dishes.

Almond nuts are considered one of the most delicious. high taste and nutritional properties almonds have led to the fact that it has become popular all over the world.

Many people think that almonds are a nut, but in fact they are a stone fruit. The stone, or almond, is different: smooth, perforated, reticulate-striated, with a thick or fragile shell. In addition to these differences, almonds are also bitter and sweet.

We eat sweet almonds oval shape with a slightly oily taste. And bitter almonds are used to make almond oil, which is then used to flavor drinks, liqueurs and others. food products. Bitter almonds contain a lot of toxic substances, so you can not eat it. And when processing bitter almonds, all toxic substances are removed.

Nuts almonds: application. Sweet almonds are eaten in fresh and are used in confectionery industry, adding to various desserts, cookies, cakes and ice cream. Oil is also made from almonds, and the shell is used to color wines and make cognac.

Almond pulp can be added to baths as a skin softener. Almond wood is added to carpentry and turning products. Terry almond flowers are also interesting to gardeners, so they grow ornamental trees and almond bushes.

Composition of almonds. Almonds contain a lot of B vitamins, which are necessary for building new cells, normalizing metabolism, improving the condition of hair, skin and teeth. Vitamin E has antioxidant properties that neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals and prevent cell destruction.

Contains almonds and a complex: phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium, which positively affects the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Almond kernels contain vitamins such as thiamine, biotin, riboflavin, peredoxin, as well as pantothenic and folic acids. It is recommended to eat 8-10 almonds per day if you do not have a tendency to gain excess weight.

Nuts almonds: benefits and harms.

Beneficial features:

• improves brain function;
• promotes cleansing of internal organs;
• has enveloping, analgesic and anticonvulsant properties;
• useful for urolithiasis, as it helps to remove sand from the kidneys;
• opens blockages in the liver and spleen;
• cleanses the blood;
• It has choleretic action;
• enhances potency;
• effectively relieves a hangover;
• has a sedative effect with constant use, improves sleep;
• helps in treatment bronchial asthma, stomatitis, pneumonia;
• almond "milk" is used as an enveloping agent for diseases of the stomach and intestines;
• improves the condition of the body in all chronic diseases;
• relieves painful thinness. To do this, almonds must be eaten directly with the peel, because it contains flavonoids.

Almonds in medicine and cosmetology. Alternative medicine and cosmetology have recognized that almonds have a good anti-aging effect. Therefore, almond extracts are added to natural cosmetics, oils, emulsions, shampoos. Almond helps to take care of hair, eyebrows, eyelashes, softens the skin, makes it velvety and elastic, and fights stretch marks.

Almonds can be used for baldness. To do this, gruel from crushed almonds mixed with milk should be lubricated on the head. You can do the same with furunculosis.

Useful properties of almonds make it possible for its effective use in such diseases: severe urination, gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers, cough, anemia and anemia, insomnia, hyperacidity gastric juice, growth retardation in children.

The harm of almonds. When eating almonds, remember that only sweet almonds are suitable for nutrition. Do not eat unripe almonds. Almonds should be eaten with caution for those who are prone to allergic reactions. When eating almonds, keep in mind that they are high in calories. Almonds are not recommended for overexcitation or palpitations. When eating a large amount of almonds, dizziness or mild drug intoxication may begin.

How to peel almonds:

The fruits of the almond tree are actively used in cooking, perfumery, pharmacology and traditional medicine. They are valued for pleasant taste, rich chemical composition, numerous beneficial features and high nutritional value.

Almond is a small tree or shrub of the Plum genus, belonging to the Rosaceae family. Contrary to popular belief, almonds are not nuts, but hard stone fruits. The two most common varieties are sweet almonds (commonly used in cooking) and bitter almonds (used in cosmetics). In shops and markets, both dried and fried fruits are found.

The almond tree blossoms beautifully and exudes pleasant aroma

Composition and useful properties

Depending on the region of growth, the almond kernel contains 35–70% non-drying fatty oil, which includes glycerides of oleic (80%), linoleic (15%) and myristic (5%) acids, as well as proteins, vitamins, minerals and enzymes. In addition, the almond kernel contains: glucose, carbohydrates, carotene, dyes, essential oil and the glycoside amygdalin, which imparts a characteristic bitter taste.

Calories per 100 g: table

What else is in almonds?

Since ancient times, almonds have been used as medicinal product. It owes its benefits to the following vitamins:

• Vitamin E, which protects body cells from aging
• B1 (thiamine), which is involved in metabolism and strengthens the immune system
• B2 (riboflavin), necessary in the synthesis of hemoglobin
• B6 (pyridoxine), which improves the functioning of the nervous system
• AT 9 ( folic acid), which lowers blood cholesterol levels

Walnut also contains many vital trace elements:

• calcium
• potassium
• phosphorus
• iron
• manganese
• magnesium
• cellulose

Almonds have a multifaceted effect on the body:

1. Improves brain function, strengthens vision and memory.
2. Normalizes metabolic processes in the body, promotes digestion and normalization of the stomach.
3. Calms the nerves, strengthens the nervous system, improves sleep.
4. Eliminates headache, sore throat and cough.
5. It has a choleretic effect, heals the liver and spleen.
6. Purifies the blood.

Regular use of almonds cures ulcers, gastritis, urolithiasis. Noticeable benefits even with stomatitis, pneumonia and asthma. Thanks to a large number antioxidants, it acts as a prevention of atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases and malignant tumors. Almonds also have an anticonvulsant effect, help with numbness of the limbs. Almond-based cosmetics are good for skin and hair.

Fried or dried?

Useful properties are more pronounced in dried almonds, because as a result heat treatment the concentration of vitamins B and E decreases. In addition, when preparing roasted almonds, sugar and other components are often added to make it more nutritious. However, roasted nuts are still rich in trace elements and even have one advantage - they are easier to digest and better suited for those who have digestive problems.

For women

Almonds are a true helper for female beauty and health. Vitamin E in its composition is called the "vitamin of youth" - it protects cells from aging, promotes tissue regeneration, rejuvenates the face and body. 20 g of nuts per day give the body daily allowance this powerful antioxidant.

Cosmetics based on almond oil soften the skin, give it elasticity and a healthy color, prevent the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite. And hair products with its content make hair soft, thick and silky.

Almonds are useful for urolithiasis - remove small stones and sand. The use of almonds during menstruation improves well-being and reduces pain, and also helps to recover from blood loss.

Almonds are also useful for those who are on a diet. Despite high calorie content, fatty acids of almond oil effectively start metabolic processes in the body, at the same time not having time to digest. Easily digestible almond protein can be a good alternative for those who want to give up meat.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding

Because during this period female body it is important to get all the necessary elements, doctors recommend expectant mothers (in the absence of allergic reaction) eat almonds all 9 months for 10-15 nuts every day. Then the body will receive the right stock squirrel and minerals: zinc, iron, phosphorus, folic acid.

It also helps to solve the problem of insomnia in pregnant women: it calms the nervous system, promotes sound sleep. In many situations, almonds are a good alternative to taking pills, for example, in case of a headache.

In addition, many pregnant women experience digestive problems. The fiber contained in almonds helps to normalize the work of the stomach and intestines.

Almonds have a positive effect on the development of the fetus from the earliest months. At the same time, it is important to remember the contraindications and norms of use in order to prevent poisoning or allergic reactions. In each case, it is better to additionally consult a doctor.

Some fear that almonds can harm when breastfeeding. You should not be afraid of this if you use almonds in reasonable quantities. Experts recommend snacking on nuts between meals. 30 g per day will be enough for milk to be enriched with healthy fats and amino acids and become more nutritious. Almonds are great for breastfeeding babies who are not gaining weight well.

To make sure that the child will accept the introduction of a new product into the mother's diet, it is better to start with a couple of nucleoli per day and gradually increase their number, but not exceeding the stated rate of 30 g. If the child has a rash, colic or indigestion, immediately cancel this product! It's not necessarily an allergy, perhaps a fragile body just doesn't take such a high-calorie nut so far.

Benefits for men

No less useful regular use almonds and men. Vitamins and trace elements of almond fruits contribute to the production of energy, allowing you to better cope with stress, help restore strength and have a positive effect on the nervous system. Almonds are an excellent protection against stress, which the stronger sex is often exposed to.

Since almonds are rich in potassium, they improve the oxygen supply to the brain. This makes it especially relevant for the diet of smokers, who should consume fifty grams of almonds daily. And in case you are going to drink alcohol, five nuts eaten the day before will greatly ease the hangover the next day.

Regular consumption of almonds also contributes to an increase in testosterone levels, and therefore improves sexual health. In addition, it contains arginine, an amino acid that has a beneficial effect on libido.

Studies have shown that almonds reduce the level of bad cholesterol in the blood and give healthy fats supporting heart health in men. It is also a means of preventing Alzheimer's disease and senile dementia.

Medicinal mixtures from almonds strengthen the hair roots and help to avoid baldness.

Can you give almonds to children?

It is possible and even necessary to give almonds to children, but not forgetting about recommendations on norms and contraindications. Babies should not eat bitter and raw almonds, as they may be toxic to them. But sweet almonds for a growing organism are a source of many useful trace elements and protein necessary for growth.

The abundance of vitamins and minerals contained in the almond kernel has a beneficial effect on bones, skin and hair, strengthens memory, improves eyesight, helps to cope with stress more effectively and resist colds. All this makes almonds especially relevant for schoolchildren who are constantly faced with intellectual and physical stress.

Harm and contraindications

With all its beneficial properties, almonds still have a number of contraindications and require some precautions when using it.

Do not eat unripe almonds, as they contain cyanide, which causes severe poisoning. It is better to refrain from eating raw bitter almonds due to the presence of poisonous hydrocyanic acid in the fruits, which can cause significant harm to the body, even death. Moldy and spoiled almonds should not be eaten!

Almonds are a pretty strong allergen. Overeating almonds can lead to poisoning and various allergic reactions. People with individual intolerance to this product should not eat it!

Like other nuts, almonds are high in calories, so they are not recommended for those who are prone to obesity. In addition, it is better to exclude almonds from the diet of people with heart disease and disorders of the nervous system.

Almonds are an indigestible product, so they are also contraindicated for those who have a weakened intestine or stomach.

How to choose and store?

By weight, it is better to buy large almonds (the size of a five-ruble coin). It is softer, and there is less risk of being sold a mixture with smaller apricot pits. All nuts must be uniform in color, size and shape. There should be no mold, "rust", shriveled fruits. If it is an almond in a shell, check its integrity: there should be no holes or cracks. Fresh almonds always have a pleasant nutty smell.

This is what it looks like whole almond shell

A good solution would be to buy almonds in a package - in this form, they are not afraid of exposure to humidity and air. But in this case, you must carefully read the composition - it should not contain any additional components(syrup, oils, preservatives). If you choose to purchase roasted almonds, make sure that only dry roasting was used in the preparation.

Try to choose roasted almonds without sugar coating.

If stored incorrectly, nuts will deteriorate and lose their useful qualities so please follow these rules:

1. Do not keep nuts in open containers. After a couple of weeks at room temperature, the almonds will spoil and go rancid.
2. For short-term storage, an airtight glass jar is well suited.
3. For more long-term storage Pour the almonds into a bag and place in the freezer. So it can keep fresh for up to a year.

How to distinguish almonds from apricot kernels?

When buying medium-sized almonds, it can be quite difficult to distinguish them from apricot pits.

Unfortunately, some unscrupulous sellers sometimes pass off apricot pits as almonds, so it's important to know how to tell them apart:

• Almonds are larger and have a more oblong shape;

The pattern on the almond skin is clearer and deeper;

Apricot pit is flatter in profile;

Husk apricot kernel it is removed easily, and it is rather difficult to remove the almond;

Apricot pit breaks easily, almonds are much harder;

• Sweet almonds taste like hazelnuts, and apricot pit has a characteristic bitterness;

Apricot is lighter than almond.

Thus, almond fruits are a tasty storehouse of vitamins and microelements, which together provide positive influence for the whole body. By adhering to the instructions given by us on the selection, storage and use of almonds, you will protect yourself from possible unpleasant consequences and get the maximum pleasure and benefit from using this product!