10 health benefits of almonds

Gluten free: For those who can't eat foods containing wheat, almonds are a perfect substitute. How? Almonds are usually made of about 25 percent carbohydrates, which means they can be ground down and used for baking biscuits, cookies and other breads. Since almonds are gluten free, they are an excellent choice for those who are sensitive to gluten or have to deal with wheat allergies.

Cholesterol: Almonds contain some polyunsaturated fats and are a solid source of monounsaturated fats, two natural resources which help the body to lower its levels of bad cholesterol.

Healthier blood: Sodium is generally bad for the blood. Potassium is good for the blood. Almonds have lots of potassium and very, very little sodium. See, all that potassium eases the bloods trip through the body and helps to spread nutrients throughout the body. Sodium tends to hinder this, especially a lot of sodium.

Stronger bones: Almonds also contain a fair amount of calcium, which is important for strengthening bones and helping to prevent the bone-weakening disease known as osteoporosis. All this calcium also means almonds are good for stronger teeth, which are bones.

More energy: Protein helps provide energy to the body. Almonds have lots of protein, especially absorbable and quality protein. So, if you need a little pep in your walk in the mornings, grab a handful of almonds before heading out to work.

Heart disease: The Food and Drug Administration is in on this one. While it has not been proven that a diet rich in almonds, and other nuts, is good for the heart, the FDA has officially stated that "Scientific evidence suggests, but does not prove, that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, such as almonds, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease." You can't ask for much better of a recommendation than that.

Antioxidants:Studies have shown almonds, especially the skin of almonds, contain flavonoids, which acts as an antioxidant and scientists believe helps the body in protecting its cells from suffering damage.

Losing weight: Almonds are what's known as a nutrient-dense food. What that means is almonds pack a lot of nutrition in a little space and that almonds can help your stomach to feel full. If you are feeling full, you are likely to eat less. That combined with all the nutrients almonds provides, leads to a healthier diet and improves one's chances at losing weight.

Diabetes: No, a diet of almonds cannot cure diabetes. But what almonds are known to do is level out and stabilize sugar levels in the body, especially after eating. This means almonds are a good food for helping those with diabetes in watching their sugar levels.

Staying regular: You know what I mean. Almonds are high in natural fiber, which means they help to ease the stomach and intestines. Those suffering with constipation could find benefit in eating a handful of almonds each day.