All About Almonds

Did you know that almonds aren’t technically a nut? Almonds are considered a stone fruit, related to plums, cherries, as well as peaches. Celebrate this heart-healthy seed on February 16th for National Almond Day!

Whether you are enjoying them as a midday snack or crushing them up as a dessert topping, almonds make a great addition to your favorite meal. They are packed with numerous nutrients that aid in heart, bone, and gut health.

What is so great about almonds is their versatility. You can eat them raw or transform them into something completely different. From milk to butter to even ice-cream, the possibilities are limitless.

Benefits of Almonds

What is great about almonds is there is no shortage of nutritional benefits. Just a handful of almonds can give you a great number of healthful benefits each day.

1. Heart Health– Almonds are packed with heart-healthy benefits such as healthy fats, fiber, and vitamin E- all of which have positive impacts on heart health. The high amount of vitamin E acts as an antioxidant which helps your body fight off unwanted radicals that can cause damage within your body and lead to various diseases.

2. Bone Health– Almonds contain calcium, magnesium, copper, manganese, and protein which all contribute to keeping your bones healthy.

3. Gut Health– Both raw and roasted almonds serve as a form of prebiotics to aid in gut health. Consuming almonds in either form can also have a positive effect against inflammation.

4 Fun Ways to Enjoy Almonds

While you can always go the traditional route and eat almonds in their raw form, why not transform them into something new and exciting. Here are my favorite ways to enjoy almonds.

1. Almond milk- Almond milk has become increasingly popular over the years for those who are lactose intolerant or eat non-dairy. Enjoying almonds in the form of milk is a great way to reap the benefits of this nut. When heading to the grocery store it may be confusing with all the various varieties. When searching for almond milk, try opting for the unsweetened version or one low in added sugars.

2. Almond butter-Another great thing about almonds is that you can make them into butter! Like peanut butter, almonds can be ground, and then made smooth. Almond butter makes a great topping for toast with fruit or the perfect smoothie addition.

3. Almond flour– If you are looking for a unique and nutty flavor when creating your favorite desserts or breakfast pancake, try almond flour. Almond flour is packed with nutritional benefits like protein and minerals.

4. Almond Ice-Cream– The perfect non-dairy form of ice-cream for those who cannot tolerate lactose. Enjoy the extra protein and healthy fats that you find in almonds in this tasty ice-cream!

Almonds can be enjoyed at any time of the day in so many ways, incorporating them into your weekly meals is easy! Their versatility and delicious taste are what make them so great.

Your Turn to Take Action: What is your favorite way to enjoy almonds? Let me know in the comments below!

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