Health Beniftis of Badam

                                 Health Benefits of Badam

Lowers cholesterol and lipids: Looking for a natural remedy to lower cholesterol? Eat almonds. The high fat content in almonds might be the reason you’re not having them too much but here’s something you should know. Almonds do not contain saturated fats or unhealthy fats. They contain mono-unsaturated fatty acids or good fats. Studies indicate that almonds consistently help in lowering low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol or bad cholesterol. And these results were consistent with both raw and roasted almonds.

 Helps to control and lose weight: Although almonds are rich in carbohydrates and total calories, they have proven to help weight loss and control. A study by Wien MA and colleagues showed that a low-calorie diet containing almonds was more effective in reducing weight compared to a diet having complex carbohydrates

 Reduces risk of heart disease: Naturally, if your LDL levels reduce then your risk of heart disease also lowers. A study by Jenkins DJ and colleagues found that participants with high lipid levels who had almonds as snacks had a significantly reduced risk of coronary heart disease. According to the study, the nonfat (protein and fiber) and the high amount of monounsaturated fatty acids help protect the heart.

 Have prebiotic properties: The high fiber content of almonds helps proper functioning of the digestive system. But did you know that almonds possess prebiotic properties? A study by Liu Z and colleagues found that the skin of almonds contains certain compounds that stimulate the growth of good bacteria like Bifidobacterium in the intestine. It suggests that changes in the intestinal microbes were associated with changes enzymes that improved digestion.

 Controls diabetes: If you’re a diabetic, you should eat almonds. They fight and decrease the amount of the free radicals that damage cholesterol and increase blood sugar level. It especially prevents the rise in blood sugar after meals.

Keeps cancer away: Antioxidants have immense power to protect the cells from becoming cancerous. But apart from antioxidants like vitamin E, almonds are loaded with other nutrients that individually prevent specific types of cancer. The high fibre content in them helps prevent colon cancer. The rich folic acid stores in almonds may reduce the risk of cervical cancer. Scientists have even found a link between almonds and reduction in the risk of lung cancers. 

 Improves brain function: ‘Eat badam to sharpen your mind,’ an old adage used by your grandmother, actually has a scientific basis. Almonds contain nutrients like riboflavin and L-carnitine, which boosts neurological activity and brain power.  It also helps  reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Even Ayurveda mentions that almonds increase intellectual level and longevity.

 

Raw vs. Roasted: Almonds are available in a variety of preparations and it can be tough to know which is healthiest. Raw, unsalted almonds are a safe bet, but some people prefer the roasted taste. Both raw and roasted almonds pack a high dose of nutrients and minerals. Raw almonds have more naturally occurring beneficial fats, as some are lost in the roasting process. Dry roasted almonds have the same amount of calories as raw almonds, while almonds roasted in oil contain slightly more calories

Other Health Benefits: Almonds may also promote gastrointestinal health and even combat diabetes. The high fiber content of almonds gives them prebiotic properties, which contributes to health in the gastrointestinal tract. Prebiotics are non-digestible food substances, which serve as food for the good bacteria in the intestinal tract and help maintain a healthy balance. According to a study by the American Diabetes Association, a Mediterranean diet incorporating nuts, such as almonds, helps fight diabetes even without significant changes to weight, physical activity or caloric intake.