Health and Weight Loss Benefits of Almonds [Infographic]

Health Benefits of Almonds
Infographic from Nuts for Life

Eat More Almonds

The almond is a delicious, versatile tree nut.  The ways to eat almonds are endless - in trail mixes, salads, soups, leafy green and grain salads, vegetable and rice dishes and with fresh fruit.

Almonds are also easily processed into other healthful foods such as almond milk, almond butter, almond cheese and creamy almond dressing, just to name a few.


Almonds are Packed with Nutrients

Almonds are nutrient dense.  They are an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, dietary fiber and many vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other micronutrients that are essential to good health.

Almonds are particularly rich in vitamin E, the B vitamins -- B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B7 (biotin), B9 (folate), manganese, magnesium, phosphorous, copper, calcium, iron, potassium and zinc.

Like other tree nuts, raw almonds also contain powerful antioxidant phytochemicals and phytosterols.


Health Benefits

Nuts, including almonds, have been extensively studied for their effects on human health.  So far, the research indicates that regular, moderate consumption of raw nuts may help reduce the risk for certain cancers and various chronic diseases.  Additionally, studies have found that moderate consumption of almonds and other nuts as part of a healthy whole-food diet does not lead to weight gain.


Infographic

This infographic from Nuts for Life illustrates some key facts about almonds such their nutritional profile and key health benefits:

• 20 Almonds make up a healthy handful (30g)
• A daily handful:

1. Manages Weight
2. Lowers Cholesterol
3. Reduces Cell Damage
4. Lowers the Risk of Heart Disease
5. Lowers the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
6. Improves Digestive Health

• A handful of nuts + following a Mediterranean Diet can reduce Metabolic Syndrome by 26%

For more information about almonds and other nuts, including the latest scientific research, recipes, downloadable fact sheets and other resources, please visit Nuts for Life.


Related

Nuts - Health and Weight Loss Benefits
The Health Benefits of Nuts
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Benefits of Chia Seeds [Infographic]

Benefits of Chia [Infographic] from NaturalNews.com

Chia seeds are tiny black and white seeds that come from a flowering desert plant (herb) in the mint family and are native to Central America.

"Chia" means strength and historic evidence shows that it was cultivated as an important food crop by the Aztecs.

Today we regard Chia seeds as a superfood because of its high concentrations of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, protein, complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, antioxidants, iron, calcium, potassium, and other important vitamins and minerals.

These tiny, nutrient dense seeds are thought to have many health benefits, including:

Combating diabetes by slowing digestion and improving blood sugar levels

Improving heart health by
increasing healthy cholesterol while decreasing bad LDL and triglyceride cholesterol

Supporting digestive health and intestinal regularity (high fiber content)

Improving brain health (high omega-3 fatty acids content)

Aiding in weight loss by helping to regulate appetite (Tryptophan content)

Fighting belly fat by helping to stabilize blood sugar and fighting insulin resistance

Helping to build and maintain strong bones and teeth (calcium, phosphorus and manganese content)

Providing energy (plant-based complex carbohydrate content)

Boosting strength and endurance (plant-based protein content)

Related:
Health Benefits of Seeds
Chia Seeds vs. Flax Seeds
Top 10 Flax Seed Health Benefits

Infographic Source:
Natural News - Chia

Infographic: Amazing Benefits of Coconut Water

Recently, we have been hearing and learning about the many health and healing benefits of coconut oil.  What about coconut water?

Coconut water has anti-oxidant properties and is anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory.  It is rich in vitamins, minerals and other nutrients, particularly potassium, calcium and chloride.  It is naturally low in calories, fat and dietary cholesterol, making it an excellent choice for individuals on a weight loss diet.

As this infographic points out, coconut water is although thought to:

✔ Boost energy
✔ Aid digestion
✔ Promote cardiovascular health
✔ Fight viruses
✔ Prevent diabetes
✔ Revitalize cells
✔ Accelerate metabolism
✔ Promote weight loss

Related:
17 Beauty Uses for Coconut Oil
Health Benefits of Coconut Oil

Infographic Source:  Unknown - please contact me for credit

Infographic: Organic Food Costs

Organic food has gotten the reputation of being costly and not affordable to individuals and families on a budget.  A quick survey of the produce department at the local supermarket would confirm this.   Organic versions of fruits and vegetables are slightly more expensive.  But, how does the cost of organic food in general compare to the cost of other types of foods on a pound per pound basis?

This infographic puts things into perspective by not only showing the cost per pound or gallon of some popular processed and junk food (like candy, soda and potato chips) but also by showing the hidden costs of consuming these types of foods (like farm subsidies, medical costs and pesticide clean-up).

The only comment I have with regard to this Infographic is that there is strong evidence that a whole food, plant-based diet (i.e., vegan) is healthier than a diet that includes meat and dairy.  However, for those individuals who choose not to exclude meat and/or dairy, the organic versions are the healthier option.