Almond is one of the most popular oval shaped healthy snacks that grows in a woody shell. The fruit inside the hard woody shell is eaten. Almonds are the edible seeds of Prunus dulcis, more commonly called the almond tree. A favorite of dieters in recent years, almonds are highly nutritious and rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. No wonder, they have become famous for their versatility and health benefits.

Almonds are loaded with Antioxidants

Antioxidants are substances that protect cells in your body from free radical damage which occurs due to normal metabolism. They help in neutralizing free radicals which are unstable molecules. When too many free radicals build up in the body, they can do serious damage to cells. For this reason, Antioxidants are good for your body and help to lower risk of infections along with some forms of cancer. Almonds are a good source of Antioxidants and having it on regular basis can protect you from many health conditions.

Almonds are good for your heart

Its a proven fact that including small amounts of almonds in your diet can reduce the risk of heart disease by keeping blood vessels healthy. Almonds can effectively help in lowering LDL (bad cholesterol) due to the presence of fatty acids like Omega 3, oleic and palmitoleic acids. Almonds lower LDL in a dose-dependent manner. This means that by increasing the amount of almonds you eat, you can lower your LDL further. Also, Almonds are free of trans fat and rich in healthy monounsaturated fats.

Almonds  help  in  managing  blood  sugar levels

Almonds are low in carbs and loaded with healthy dietary fibers, having low glycemic index, which helps in regulating the sugar level in the body by releasing carbohydrates gradually. This makes them a perfect choice for people with diabetes. Almonds are also high in magnesium which reduces a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Almonds help in managing hair fall

Hair is primarily made up of keratin, a protein produced in hair follicles. Almonds are a fantastic source of biotin (Vitamin B7) which is essential for breaking down proteins into amino acids that form keratin. Almonds are also rich in magnesium and other nutrients that prevents dandruff and hair damage. Adding a handful of Almonds in your diet is an excellent method to protect and nourish your hair.

Almonds are good for your eyes

Almonds are a rich source of vitamin E, which guards against unstable molecules that target healthy tissue. Vitamin E can help prevent cataracts and age-related degeneration. Thus, consuming almonds will protect your eyes and give you a healthy vision for the rest of your life.

Almond oil is good for your skin

Almond oil can be used on skin to help treat many dry skin conditions and overall skin appearance. The oil’s fatty acid content helps dissolve excess oil on the skin, while the retinoids in the oil help reduce the appearance of acne and improve cell turnover. Also, almond oil can be used on scars and stretch marks. Vitamin E content in the oil helps in smoothening of the skin and thus reduces scars and stretch marks.