Sweet almonds should not be confused with bitter almonds, which contain amygdalin and can be broken down into the poisonous substance hydrocyanic acid (cyanide). Sweet almonds are an excellent source of vitamin E, magnesium, and manganese, a good source of fiber, copper, phosphorous and riboflavin. Of all nuts, Almonds are highest in protein (6g), fiber, calcium (75mg), vitamin E, riboflavin and niacin (1mg).

Sweet Almonds, a natural source of antioxidant vitamin E

Free radicals are unstable molecules, created by our body’s metabolism. They can damage cells, lead to disease, and contribute to aging. The particles that tackle free radicals are called Antioxidants and they are either made by our body or supplied from the foods we eat. Vitamin E is one of the most important antioxidants which our body can not provide on its own. The two top whole food sources of naturally occurring vitamin E are almonds and sunflower seeds, and the natural vitamin E found in almonds is twice as potent as the synthetic vitamin E found in most supplements. A handful of almonds supplies about half the recommended daily requirement of vitamin E.


Almonds and Heart Health

There has been a growing number of scientific studies showing a connection between eating almonds and other nuts and a lowered risk of heart disease. More than a dozen studies show that a diet low in saturated fat that includes one ounce of almonds (23 nuts, about the size of a handful) lowers total and (harmful) LDL cholesterol.

Almonds for Weight Maintenance

Researches show that almonds contribute to weight loss. Our body needs fat to function properly, which is why low-fat diets can lead to cravings for high-fat foods and result in high-calorie binges. Because fat satiates hunger, low-fat diets often leave us feeling hungry and that is why we may actually consume more calories, which our body stores as fat.

Health benefits of Sweet Almonds

While sweet almonds are a very popular nutritious food, researchers are especially interested in their level of monounsaturated fats, which appear to have a beneficial effect on blood lipids. Here are some of the claimed health benefits of Sweet Almonds:

  • Sweet Almonds lower total cholesterol and LDL, the so-called bad cholesterol.
  • Sweet Almonds raise HDL, the so-called good cholesterol.
  • Sweet Almonds have antibacterial effect.
  • Sweet Almonds help reduce anxiety.
  • Sweet Almonds act as an aphrodisiac.
  • Sweet Almonds help prevent bladder cancer.
  • Sweet Almonds help prevent colon and uterine cancer.
  • Sweet Almonds help prevent breast cancer.
  • Sweet Almonds help dilute injected medications.
  • Sweet Almonds prevent heart disease.
  • Sweet Almonds increase sperm count.
  • Sweet Almonds work as a mild laxative.
  • Sweet Almonds are a source of plant-derived estrogen.

How to use Almonds and how much to take

The below doses may not apply to all products. Please read the product label and discuss Sweet Almond Dosing with your healthcare provider.

In scientific researches, adults above 18 years taken 84 to 100 grams of whole almonds daily orally with no reported side effects to treat high cholesterol. 30 milliliters of sweet almond oil daily orally has been used as a natural laxative.

Little information is available for the use of sweet almonds in children, aside from the amounts normally present in the diet. There are many questions about soy milk being safe for children and many experts suggest that soy milk should be avoided and almond milk should be used instead. Almond milk is completely lactose free and is a natural source of minerals such as zinc, magnesium, potassium, calcium and iron.

Allergies, side effects and warnings

Sweet almond is generally considered to be safe when taken by mouth, but allergies to almonds are common and can lead to severe reactions, including oral allergic syndrome (OAS), swelling of the lips and face, and closure of the throat. People who are allergic to one type of nut may also be allergic to other nuts.

Sweet almond may have an estrogen-like activity. A study in mice reports hair loss and inflammation in the leg joints.

Almonds in time of Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

There is little information about the use of sweet almond during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It appears that almonds in regular dietary intake are safe for most non-allergic individuals.

Sweet Almond Interactions

Sweet almonds may lower blood sugar levels. Caution is advised in patients with diabetes or hypoglycemia, and in those taking drugs, herbs, or supplements that affect blood sugar. These individuals should be monitored closely by a qualified healthcare provider and medication adjustments may be necessary. Theoretically, almonds and cholesterol-lowering agents may have additive effects when taken together.