Wednesday, April 25, 2012

ALMONDS - Low Carb Super Food


                                                             2.3 net carbs per 24 nuts

Similar to peanuts, you get to subtract the fiber 3.3g  from the 5.6g of [bad] carbs that 24 almonds provide, leaving you with 2.3 net carbs

Packed with a lot of nutrients for a small amount of carbohydrate, an ounce of almonds has about 2.3 grams of usable carbohydrate, plus 3.3 grams of fiber. Some of those nutrients are similar to the ones in whole grains, but without all the starch. Like grains, almonds can be ground into a meal or flour. Since their mild flavor goes with many foods, baked goods and other foods made with almonds aren't usually overpowered by the almond flavor.

Many people do not realize that almonds are not a true tree nut....they are the seeds of fruit that is related to peaches, apricots and plums.The fruit dried on the tree and the almonds are harvested afterward.






"Superfood"- 

  •  The fats in almonds are mostly monounsaturated (the type associated with olive oil). 
  • They are an excellent source of vitamin E and manganese, and a good or very good source of many other vitamins and minerals including magnesium.
  •  In addition, almonds contain large amounts of phytonutrients, especially plant sterols and flavanoids, which are heart-healthy as well as conferring antioxidant benefits. 
  •  To maximize these nutrients, enjoy your almonds with the skins (rather than blanched), as flavanoids are concentrated there.

Health Benefits of Almonds

Quite a few studies have been done with almonds suggesting that they may be able to play a role in weight reduction, cholesterol reduction, and lowering the glycemic response of a high-carbohydrate meal. A few years ago, the FDA came out with a statement saying that eating 1.5 ounces per day of many types of nuts, including almonds, may reduce the risk of heart disease.

  • Almonds are a great snack, all by themselves. Going out for the day or evening? Why not tuck some raw almonds in your purse or carry them for when hunger strikes?
  • Add almonds to salads, yogurt, vegetables -- use your imagination!
  • Use unsweetened almond milk in shakes, sauces etc..
  • Almond flour (same thing as almond meal) can be used in many low-carb recipes. Such as pancakes and muffins.

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